The Hall of Famer used the ropes to escape with a controversial win
Summary
– Nikki Bella defeated Paige during their first singles match in 11 years
– Paige controlled most of the match and repeatedly punished Nikki at ringside
– Nikki used the ropes for leverage while the referee counted the pinfall
Nikki Bella stole a controversial victory over Paige during the September 11, 2026, episode of WWE SmackDown in Mexico City.
The match marked the ninth singles meeting between the former friends and their first one-on-one encounter in 11 years. Their rivalry had become increasingly personal following weeks of attacks and insults.
Paige took control as soon as the match began and overwhelmed Nikki with an aggressive offense. She carried the fight outside the ring and sent the WWE Hall of Famer onto the Spanish announce desk.
Winning appeared to be less important to Paige than punishing her rival. She continued attacking Nikki around the ringside before sending her hip-first into the steel steps.
Nikki briefly created an opening and attempted to change the direction of the match. Paige quickly cut off her comeback and continued to control the action.
Paige also targeted Nikki while mocking her throughout the match. Nikki had previously focused her attacks on Paige’s surgically repaired neck, adding another dangerous element to their personal feud.
Nikki eventually hid behind the referee to prevent Paige from reaching her. She used the official’s position to create an opening before driving Paige into the corner.
The Hall of Famer then stacked Paige up for a pin and placed both feet on the ropes for additional leverage. The referee did not see the violation and completed the three-count.
Nikki escaped with the victory despite Paige controlling most of the match. The illegal finish gave Nikki the result she wanted, but it is unlikely to settle the growing issue between the longtime rivals.
