The United States Championship did not have a merry 2018 after being shuffled every now and then from the likes of Bobby Roode, Jinder Mahal, Jeff Hardy, Shinsuke Nakamura and Rusev.
The title changed hands in the kick-off show at the Royal Rumble where Nakamura reclaimed his title with a win over Rusev.
The latest episode of SmackDown Live saw the title change hands in bizarre fashion. Due to not being able to compete in the Royal Rumble after an assault from Nia Jax, R-Truth was awarded a title shot as consolation.
The Mixed Match Challenged winner proceeded to secure the win with a quick rollup, despite the three count, the wrestlers continued to work until the referee Mike Chioda asked for the bell and handed the belt to R-Truth.
DID @RonKillings JUST PIN @ShinsukeN TO BECOME THE NEW #USChampion?!?
YES. YES HE DID! #SDLive #USTitle pic.twitter.com/Fr2XvQXF6M
— WWE (@WWE) January 30, 2019
Former United States Champion Rusev made his way down to the ring for a title shot after his losing effort at the Royal Rumble. R-Truth emerged victorious yet again after a quick roll-up to remain as the United States Champion.