Sasha Banks Returns On WWE SmackDown, Attacks Bianca Belair

After a long absence from WWE television, Sasha Banks returned on Friday night's SmackDown, attacking the brand's Women's champion (and the woman who defeated her for the title), Bianca Belair.

Banks initially made the save for Belair, after she was attacked by Carmella and Zelina Vega. The two went on to defeat Carmella and Vega in the main event, leading to Banks attacking Belair after the match. SmackDown went off the air with Belair trapped in the Banks Statement.

Belair was initially subject of a celebration segment, commemorating her reaching 100 days at SmackDown Women's champion. This led to the Carmella and Vega disruptions, before Banks made the save.

For Banks, it's her first appearance since the post-WrestleMania episode of SmackDown on April 16. She lost the title to Belair on the first night of WrestleMania on April 10. Belair earned the shot by winning the Women's Royal Rumble match on January 31.

During Banks' hiatus, Belair successfully defended her title against Bayley at two ensuing pay-per-views. After Bayley was injured, Belair won consecutive title bouts over Carmella.