Sami Zayn’s WWE Championship defence against Kevin Owens took an unusual turn on SmackDown, and a new report has shed light on why the match appeared to finish twice.

During the September 18 episode, CM Punk struck Owens with the championship belt, allowing Zayn to make the cover. The referee counted to three, but no bell followed and the action continued. Zayn then delivered a Helluva Kick and pinned Owens again to officially retain his title.

According to Fightful, WWE sources said the belt shot was meant to lead directly to the finish. The additional sequence was reportedly put together after the bell was not called for.

“In speaking to WWE sources about the Kevin Owens vs. Sami Zayn match, they claimed to Fightful that Owens was never supposed to kick out after the belt shot. The match was to end after that, but after the ref didn’t call for the bell, the finish had to be changed.”

Referee Brian Hebner also weighed in on X, defending the official’s decision to complete the count.

“First of all it’s not a botch and it’s not the referees fault in this situation. He actually did exactly what he was suppose to do! Don’t kick, keep counting #123”

Zayn left with the championship, although the reported change to the finish added an unexpected twist to his latest defence against Owens.