5 Things WWE subtly told us on SmackDown: Returning star refuses to turn heel, former MITB winner getting a big push? 

#1. Is Apollo Crews officially done with Kevin Owens on SmackDown?

Apollo Crews

There's no doubt that Apollo Crews' push in 2021 on SmackDown is bigger than the one he received last year. When he moved to RAW in 2020, it was a blessing in disguise and he was utilized well as a babyface, leading to his first Championship in WWE.

In 2021, we're seeing the story of a more established superstar come into his own. His Intercontinental title reign in 2021 has been entertaining. And so far, he has defeated Big E, Kevin Owens, and Sami Zayn.

Kevin Owens had another shot at Apollo Crews's Intercontinental Championship on SmackDown tonight, but he was set up to fail. Commander Azeez (who was barred from ringside) attacked him backstage, giving Crews a huge advantage.

.@CommanderAzeez may be barred from ringside, but he's not barred from backstage! 😱#SmackDown #ICTitle @FightOwensFight @WWEApollo pic.twitter.com/Op3yfQz6Ng

— WWE (@WWE) June 5, 2021

Sure enough, Crews successfully retained the Intercontinental title. Then after the match, Sami Zayn attacked a defenseless Kevin Owens. It's interesting to see the direction on SmackDown since Owens vs Zayn is a given.

Oh, come on, @SamiZayn! 😡#SmackDown @FightOwensFight pic.twitter.com/1Ku6LXe5zw

— WWE (@WWE) June 5, 2021

But who will step up to challenge Apollo Crews? Will Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens continue to be involved in the title picture on SmackDown?