3 Reasons Why Paige Defeated Nikki Bella on WWE SmackDown

Paige defeated Nikki Bella in a singles match on the October 16, 2026, episode of WWE SmackDown, scoring an important victory in their ongoing rivalry. The contest featured several references to Nikki Bella’s past relationship with John Cena, adding another layer of interest to the encounter.

The match ultimately ended when Paige pinned Nikki with a roll-up, securing a significant win over the WWE Hall of Famer. The result could have major implications for their feud and the WWE Women’s Championship picture, particularly with Nikki scheduled to challenge Chelsea Green for the title.

Although WWE has yet to confirm the creative direction following Paige’s victory, there are several possible reasons why the company booked this result. Here are three reasons why Paige defeated Nikki Bella on SmackDown.

#3. Paige Couldn’t Afford to Take Another Loss

Paige’s recent run had been challenging, particularly after losing the Women’s Tag Team Championship. Since dropping the titles, the veteran star has struggled to build momentum and secure consistent victories.

Her defeats against Nikki Bella and Jacy Jayne further complicated her position as a singles competitor. Another loss could have weakened her standing in the women’s division and made it more difficult for WWE to establish her as a serious contender.

Giving Paige a victory over Nikki on SmackDown could therefore be a way to rebuild her momentum. Defeating a prominent WWE star would provide her with an important confidence boost and help restore some of the credibility she may have lost following her recent setbacks.

The roll-up finish also allowed Paige to secure the victory without necessarily ending the rivalry decisively. This leaves room for WWE to continue their storyline while giving Paige the win she needed.

#2. To Continue the WWE Feud Between Paige and Nikki Bella

Another possible reason behind Paige’s victory is WWE’s intention to extend her rivalry with Nikki Bella. The two stars have been involved in a heated feud since Nikki defeated Paige on September 11, 2026.

The storyline intensified when Nikki betrayed Paige, turning against her former ally and setting the stage for their personal rivalry. Their recent encounters have continued to develop the tension between the two competitors.

By allowing Paige to win the latest match, WWE has evened the score and created a potential foundation for another showdown. Neither competitor has established a decisive advantage, leaving the door open for the rivalry to continue.

The result could also point toward a possible third match between the two stars at WWE Crown Jewel 2026. WWE has previously extended certain rivalries into three-match series, with each encounter raising the stakes before a final showdown.

Although a trilogy has not been officially confirmed, Paige’s victory could be a way to build anticipation for another meeting. A rubber match would give both women an opportunity to settle their differences and potentially bring their feud to a definitive conclusion.

#1. WWE Could Be Preparing to Insert Paige Into the Women’s Championship Picture

Paige’s victory over Nikki Bella could also have implications for the WWE Women’s Championship. WWE has announced that Nikki is scheduled to challenge Chelsea Green for the title on the October 30, 2026, episode of SmackDown.

With that championship match approaching, Paige pinning Nikki could create an interesting storyline twist. The former Divas Champion could use her victory as an argument for receiving a title opportunity of her own.

Paige could point out that she defeated Nikki, the scheduled challenger, and argue that she deserves to be included in the upcoming championship contest. Such a development would provide WWE with a straightforward way to expand the title storyline.

If WWE chooses to pursue this direction, General Manager Nick Aldis could potentially turn the scheduled singles match between Chelsea Green and Nikki Bella into a triple-threat contest involving Paige.

However, this remains speculation, and WWE has not officially announced any changes to the championship match. For now, Chelsea Green is scheduled to defend her title against Nikki Bella on October 30.

What Does Paige’s Victory Mean for WWE SmackDown?

Paige’s win over Nikki Bella could serve several purposes for WWE. It gives Paige an opportunity to rebuild her momentum, keeps her rivalry with Nikki alive and potentially creates a path into the Women’s Championship picture.

The roll-up finish also leaves room for further developments, as it gives WWE the option to continue the feud without presenting the result as a completely decisive conclusion.

With Nikki’s championship match against Chelsea Green approaching, the coming weeks could determine whether Paige remains focused on her rivalry with Nikki or becomes involved in the title storyline.

For now, Paige has secured an important victory on SmackDown. Whether it leads to another match against Nikki Bella or a potential opportunity at the WWE Women’s Championship remains to be seen.