Apollo Crews: Difference between revisions - Wikipedia

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=== WWE ===

==== NXT and main roster beginnings (~~2014–2016~~2014–2017) ====

In October 2014, Uhaa took part in a [[WWE]] tryout camp, resulting in a [[Farm team (professional wrestling)|developmental]] contract offer.<ref name=MiamiHeraldInterview/><ref>{{cite magazine| last = Meltzer | first = Dave | author-link = Dave Meltzer | date = December 22, 2014 | title = Dec. 22, 2014 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: UFC lawsuit analysis, full reports on 4 consecutive major WWE & UFC shows, and much more! | magazine = [[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]] | location = [[Campbell, California]] | issn = 1083-9593 | page=34}}</ref> Starting on December 31, 2014, multiple sources reported that Uhaa had come to terms on a contract with WWE.<ref name=WWEContractWON>{{cite magazine| last = Meltzer | first = Dave | author-link = Dave Meltzer | date = December 31, 2014 | title = Jan. 5, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2014 business year in review, Daniel Bryan return, Wrestle Kingdom preview, death of Al Greene, and much more | magazine = [[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]] | location = [[Campbell, California]] | issn = 1083-9593 | page=51}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=January 1, 2015 |title=NXT newswire: DGUSA star signs with WWE, Itami & Balor in tag action tonight on NXT |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_82546.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150103205808/http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_82546.shtml |archive-date=January 3, 2015 |access-date=January 2, 2015 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}</ref> Uhaa reported to the [[WWE Performance Center]], the home of its [[NXT (WWE brand)|NXT]] developmental brand, on April 6, 2015.<ref>{{cite web |last=Johnson |first=Mike |date=April 6, 2015 |title=Former DG star starts with WWE, great reason why celebrity wrestler likely won't work SummerSlam, Battleground, NXT and more news |url=http://pwinsider.com/article/92886/former-dg-star-starts-with-wwe-great-reason-why-celebrity-wrestler-likely-wont-work-summerslam-battleground-nxt-and-more-news.html?p=1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150714200220/http://pwinsider.com/article/92886/former-dg-star-starts-with-wwe-great-reason-why-celebrity-wrestler-likely-wont-work-summerslam-battleground-nxt-and-more-news.html?p=1 |archive-date=July 14, 2015 |access-date=April 7, 2015 |publisher=PWInsider}}</ref> WWE officially announced Uhaa as part of a new class of NXT recruits in an April 13 press release.<ref name="WWESigningPR">{{cite web |date=April 13, 2015 |title=WWE Performance Center welcomes new class of recruits |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/wwe-performance-center-welcomes-new-class-of-recruits |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150417032214/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/wwe-performance-center-welcomes-new-class-of-recruits |archive-date=April 17, 2015 |access-date=April 10, 2016 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> Uhaa made his first televised appearance on the May 6 episode of ''[[WWE NXT|NXT]]'', signing an NXT contract in a segment with [[William Regal]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Trionfo |first=Richard |date=May 6, 2015 |title=WWE NXT report: contract signing, interview with champion and challenger, Becky Lynch video profile, The Nation is coming, who is number one? |url=http://pwinsider.com/article/93549/wwe-nxt-report-contract-signing-interview-with-champion-and-challenger-becky-lynch-video-profile-the-nation-is-coming-who-is-number-one.html?p=1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150714200313/http://pwinsider.com/article/93549/wwe-nxt-report-contract-signing-interview-with-champion-and-challenger-becky-lynch-video-profile-the-nation-is-coming-who-is-number-one.html?p=1 |archive-date=July 14, 2015 |access-date=May 7, 2015 |publisher=PWInsider}}</ref> Uhaa started working NXT [[house show]]s the following month, retaining the Uhaa Nation ring name.<ref>{{cite web |last=Alston |first=Gary |date=June 21, 2015 |title=6/20 NXT results from Lakeland, FL |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=94554 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150714195907/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=94554 |archive-date=July 14, 2015 |access-date=July 10, 2015 |publisher=PWInsider}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Smith |first1=Joseph |last2=Twiss |first2=Andrew |date=June 27, 2015 |title=6/26 NXT results from Cocoa Beach, FL |url=http://www.pwinsider.com/article/94695/626-nxt-results-from-cocoa-beach-fl.html?p=1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924142407/http://www.pwinsider.com/article/94695/626-nxt-results-from-cocoa-beach-fl.html?p=1 |archive-date=September 24, 2015 |access-date=July 10, 2015 |publisher=PWInsider}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Parks |first=Greg |date=July 18, 2015 |title=Show results – 7/18 WWE NXT in Venice, Fla.: Parks's in-person report on Finn Balor vs. Tyler Breeze, Eva Marie, Uhaa Nation, more |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_86313.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150821173520/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_86313.shtml |archive-date=August 21, 2015 |access-date=July 19, 2015 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}</ref>

[[File:Shakedown 10 (30988022663).jpg|thumb|right|Crews before a match in December 2016]]

On August 5, it was announced that Uhaa, now working under the new ring name '''Apollo Crews''', would be making his televised NXT in-ring debut on August 22 at [[NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn]],<ref name="ApolloCrews">{{cite web |last=Trionfo |first=Richard |date=August 5, 2015 |title=The former Uhaa Nation's debut on NXT is announced...as well as his NXT name |url=http://pwinsider.com/article/95676/the-former-uhaa-nations-debut-on-nxt-is-announced-as-well-as-his-nxt-name.html?p=1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925090319/http://pwinsider.com/article/95676/the-former-uhaa-nations-debut-on-nxt-is-announced-as-well-as-his-nxt-name.html?p=1 |archive-date=September 25, 2015 |access-date=August 5, 2015 |publisher=PWInsider}}</ref> where he defeated [[Shawn Spears|Tye Dillinger]].<ref name=NXTTakeOverBrooklyn>{{cite web | url = http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/96-wwe-news/44186-wwe-nxt-takeover-live-results-a-main-card-finn-balor-vs-kevin-owens-sasha-banks-vs-bayley-samoa-joe-jushin-qthunderq-liger | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150823140341/http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/96-wwe-news/44186-wwe-nxt-takeover-live-results-a-main-card-finn-balor-vs-kevin-owens-sasha-banks-vs-bayley-samoa-joe-jushin-qthunderq-liger | title = WWE NXT TakeOver live results & main card: Finn Balor vs. Kevin Owens, Sasha Banks vs. Bayley, Samoa Joe, Jushin "Thunder" Liger | last=Witner | first=Emerson | archive-date=August 23, 2015 | date=August 22, 2015 | access-date=August 22, 2015 | work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> Crews made his NXT debut on the September 2 episode of ''NXT'', defeating [[Danny Burch|Martin Stone]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Parry |first=Josh |date=August 13, 2015 |title=WWE news: NXT TV spoilers – results from Full Sail University for 8/19 pre-Takeover show and post-Takeover shows |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_86935.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150816223706/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_86935.shtml |archive-date=August 16, 2015 |access-date=August 14, 2015 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}</ref> At [[NXT TakeOver: Respect]] on October 7,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Melok |first1=Bobby |date=September 24, 2015 |title=Apollo Crews vs. Tyler Breeze |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/nxt-takeover-respect-2015-10-07/apollo-crews-tyler-breeze-27964576 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150927045542/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/nxt-takeover-respect-2015-10-07/apollo-crews-tyler-breeze-27964576 |archive-date=September 27, 2015 |access-date=September 24, 2015 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> Crews defeated [[Tyler Breeze]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Melok |first=Bobby |date=October 6, 2015 |title=NXT TakeOver: Respect results |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/nxt-takeover-respect-2015-10-07/nxt-takeover-respect-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160424163950/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/nxt-takeover-respect-2015-10-07/nxt-takeover-respect-results |archive-date=April 24, 2016 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On the October 14 episode of ''NXT'', Crews won a [[Battle royal (professional wrestling)|battle royal]] to become the number one contender to the [[NXT Championship]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Parry |first=Josh |date=October 8, 2015 |title=WWE news: NXT spoilers – full results from Thursday's TV taping |url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_87926.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304105925/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_87926.shtml |archive-date=March 4, 2016 |access-date=October 9, 2015 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}</ref> Crews received his title shot against [[Finn Bálor]] on the November 4 episode of ''NXT'',<ref>{{cite web |last=Meltzer |first=Dave |author-link=Dave Meltzer |date=October 22, 2015 |title=NXT Tapings: Finn Balor defends his belt against Apollo Crews |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/nxt-tapings-finn-balor-defends-his-belt-against-apollo-crews-200161 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306122206/http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/nxt-tapings-finn-balor-defends-his-belt-against-apollo-crews-200161 |archive-date=March 6, 2016 |access-date=October 23, 2015 |work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> winning the match by disqualification, when he was attacked by [[Baron Corbin]], who held a grudge against Crews for eliminating him from the number one contender's battle royal.<ref>{{cite web |last=Melok |first=Bobby |date=November 4, 2015 |title=WWE NXT results: Nov. 4, 2015 – Samoa Joe betrays Finn Bálor as NXT Championship Match comes to shocking conclusion |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/2015-11-04/wwe-nxt-results-2015-11-04-28124331 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151125193659/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/2015-11-04/wwe-nxt-results-2015-11-04-28124331 |archive-date=November 25, 2015 |access-date=November 5, 2015 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> The rivalry between Crews and Corbin led to a match on December 16 at [[NXT TakeOver: London]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Melok |first=Bobby |date=November 25, 2015 |title=Apollo Crews vs. Baron Corbin |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/nxt-takeover-london-2015-12-16/apollo-crews-baron-corbin-28258196 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151127062857/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/nxt-takeover-london-2015-12-16/apollo-crews-baron-corbin-28258196 |archive-date=November 27, 2015 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> which Corbin won.<ref>{{cite web |last=Meltzer |first=Dave |author-link=Dave Meltzer |date=December 16, 2015 |title=NXT TakeOver London live results: Finn Balor vs. Samoa Joe, Bayley vs. Nia Jax |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/nxt-takeover-london-live-results-finn-balor-vs-samoa-joe-bayley-vs-nia-jax-203856 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222173550/http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/nxt-takeover-london-live-results-finn-balor-vs-samoa-joe-bayley-vs-nia-jax-203856 |archive-date=December 22, 2015 |access-date=December 16, 2015 |work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> Crews then started a feud with [[Elias (wrestler)|Elias Samson]], after Crews saved Johnny Gargano from Samson's assault on the March 23, 2016, episode of ''NXT''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Witner |first=Emerson |date=March 23, 2016 |title=WWE NXT results: Asuka vs Emma; Finn Balor battles Rich Swann |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/wwe-nxt-results-asuka-vs-emma-finn-balor-battles-rich-swann-209846 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160404095311/http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/wwe-nxt-results-asuka-vs-emma-finn-balor-battles-rich-swann-209846 |archive-date=April 4, 2016 |access-date=April 7, 2016 |work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> On the April 6 episode of ''NXT'', Crews defeated Samson.<ref>{{cite web |last=Witner |first=Emerson |date=April 6, 2016 |title=WWE NXT results: TakeOver recap; Apollo Crews vs. The Drifter |url=http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/wwe-nxt-results-takeover-recap-apollo-crews-vs-drifter-210586 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160410122255/http://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/wwe-nxt-results-takeover-recap-apollo-crews-vs-drifter-210586 |archive-date=April 10, 2016 |access-date=April 7, 2016 |work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref>

On the April 4, 2016, episode of ''[[WWE Raw|Raw]]'', Crews made his main roster debut, defeating Tyler Breeze.<ref>{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=April 4, 2016 |title=4/4 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete Report on post-WM32 |url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/04/april4rawresults/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160405065827/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/04/april4rawresults/ |archive-date=April 5, 2016 |access-date=April 4, 2016 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}</ref> He remained undefeated over the following weeks, defeating the likes of [[Curtis Axel]],<ref>{{cite web |last=Burdick |first=Michael |date=April 7, 2016 |title=Apollo Crews def. Curtis Axel |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/04-07-2016/article/apollo-crews-vs-curtis-axel |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411132923/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/04-07-2016/article/apollo-crews-vs-curtis-axel |archive-date=April 11, 2016 |access-date=April 27, 2020 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> [[Adam Rose]],<ref>{{cite web |last1=Caldwell |first1=James |date=April 11, 2016 |title=4/11 WWE Raw Results – CALDWELL'S Complete Live Report |url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/11/april11rawresults/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160412055052/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/11/april11rawresults/ |archive-date=April 12, 2016 |access-date=April 11, 2016 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}</ref> [[Heath Slater]]<ref>{{cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=April 18, 2016 |title=Apollo Crews def. Heath Slater |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2016-04-18/article/apollo-crews-def-heath-slater |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160421021754/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2016-04-18/article/apollo-crews-def-heath-slater |archive-date=April 21, 2016 |access-date=April 20, 2016 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> and [[Cody Rhodes|Stardust]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Tedesco |first1=Mike |date=April 25, 2016 |title=WWE RAW Results – 4/25/16 (Live from Hartford, Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows in-ring debut, Reigns vs. Del Rio) |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/61073-wwe-raw-results-42516-live-hartford-karl-anderson-luke-gallows-ring-debut-roman-reigns-vs-del-rio/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160429021716/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/61073-wwe-raw-results-42516-live-hartford-karl-anderson-luke-gallows-ring-debut-roman-reigns-vs-del-rio/ |archive-date=April 29, 2016 |access-date=April 26, 2016 |website= |publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> However, on the May 23 episode of ''Raw'', Crews lost to [[Chris Jericho]] in a [[Money in the Bank ladder match|Money in the Bank]] qualifying match, after [[Sheamus]] attacked Crews before the match.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Caldwell |first1=James |date=May 23, 2016 |title=5/23 WWE Raw TV Results – CALDWELL'S Complete Live Report |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/23/may23rawresultscomplete/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160529044809/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/23/may23rawresultscomplete/ |archive-date=May 29, 2016 |access-date=May 23, 2016 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}</ref> Crews and Sheamus faced off on June 19 at the [[Money in the Bank (2016)|Money in the Bank]] pay-per-view,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Clapp |first=John |date=June 13, 2016 |title=Apollo Crews vs. Sheamus (Kickoff Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2016/apollo-crews-sheamus |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160615121717/https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2016/apollo-crews-sheamus |archive-date=June 15, 2016 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> where Crews was victorious.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Taylor |first=Scott |date=June 19, 2016 |title=Apollo Crews def. Sheamus |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2016/apollo-crews-sheamus-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160623072621/https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2016/apollo-crews-sheamus-results |archive-date=June 23, 2016 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref>▼

~~==== Main roster beginnings (2016–2017) ====~~

▲On the April 4, 2016, episode of ''[[WWE Raw|Raw]]'', Crews made his main roster debut, defeating Tyler Breeze.<ref>{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |date=April 4, 2016 |title=4/4 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete Report on post-WM32 |url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/04/april4rawresults/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160405065827/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/04/april4rawresults/ |archive-date=April 5, 2016 |access-date=April 4, 2016 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}</ref> He remained undefeated over the following weeks, defeating the likes of [[Curtis Axel]],<ref>{{cite web |last=Burdick |first=Michael |date=April 7, 2016 |title=Apollo Crews def. Curtis Axel |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/04-07-2016/article/apollo-crews-vs-curtis-axel |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411132923/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/04-07-2016/article/apollo-crews-vs-curtis-axel |archive-date=April 11, 2016 |access-date=April 27, 2020 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> [[Adam Rose]],<ref>{{cite web |last1=Caldwell |first1=James |date=April 11, 2016 |title=4/11 WWE Raw Results – CALDWELL'S Complete Live Report |url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/11/april11rawresults/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160412055052/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/11/april11rawresults/ |archive-date=April 12, 2016 |access-date=April 11, 2016 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}</ref> [[Heath Slater]]<ref>{{cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=April 18, 2016 |title=Apollo Crews def. Heath Slater |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2016-04-18/article/apollo-crews-def-heath-slater |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160421021754/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2016-04-18/article/apollo-crews-def-heath-slater |archive-date=April 21, 2016 |access-date=April 20, 2016 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> and [[Cody Rhodes|Stardust]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Tedesco |first1=Mike |date=April 25, 2016 |title=WWE RAW Results – 4/25/16 (Live from Hartford, Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows in-ring debut, Reigns vs. Del Rio) |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/61073-wwe-raw-results-42516-live-hartford-karl-anderson-luke-gallows-ring-debut-roman-reigns-vs-del-rio/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160429021716/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/61073-wwe-raw-results-42516-live-hartford-karl-anderson-luke-gallows-ring-debut-roman-reigns-vs-del-rio/ |archive-date=April 29, 2016 |access-date=April 26, 2016 |website= |publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> However, on the May 23 episode of ''Raw'', Crews lost to [[Chris Jericho]] in a [[Money in the Bank ladder match|Money in the Bank]] qualifying match, after [[Sheamus]] attacked Crews before the match.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Caldwell |first1=James |date=May 23, 2016 |title=5/23 WWE Raw TV Results – CALDWELL'S Complete Live Report |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/23/may23rawresultscomplete/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160529044809/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/23/may23rawresultscomplete/ |archive-date=May 29, 2016 |access-date=May 23, 2016 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}</ref> Crews and Sheamus faced off on June 19 at the [[Money in the Bank (2016)|Money in the Bank]] pay-per-view,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Clapp |first=John |date=June 13, 2016 |title=Apollo Crews vs. Sheamus (Kickoff Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2016/apollo-crews-sheamus |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160615121717/https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2016/apollo-crews-sheamus |archive-date=June 15, 2016 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> where Crews was victorious.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Taylor |first=Scott |date=June 19, 2016 |title=Apollo Crews def. Sheamus |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2016/apollo-crews-sheamus-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160623072621/https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2016/apollo-crews-sheamus-results |archive-date=June 23, 2016 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref>

As part of the [[2016 WWE draft|draft]] on July 19, Crews was drafted to the [[SmackDown (WWE brand)|SmackDown]] [[WWE brand extension|brand]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 19, 2016 |title=2016 WWE Draft results: WWE officially ushers in New Era |url=http://www.wwe.com/2016-wwe-draft-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160720044640/http://www.wwe.com/2016-wwe-draft-results |archive-date=July 20, 2016 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On the August 2 episode of ''[[WWE SmackDown|SmackDown]]'', Crews defeated [[Kalisto (wrestler)|Kalisto]] and [[Baron Corbin]] in a [[triple threat match]] to become the number one contender to the [[WWE Intercontinental Championship|Intercontinental Championship]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Parks |first=Greg |date=August 2, 2016 |title=8/2 WWE Smackdown Live – Parks's Complete Live TV Report |url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/02/82-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-live-report/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160806162811/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/02/82-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-live-report/ |archive-date=August 6, 2016 |access-date=August 3, 2016 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}</ref> Crews received his title shot on August 21 at [[SummerSlam (2016)|SummerSlam]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Clapp |first=John |date=August 2, 2016 |title=Intercontinental Champion The Miz vs. Apollo Crews |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/intercontinental-champion-miz-vs-apollo-crews |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160806052416/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/intercontinental-champion-miz-vs-apollo-crews |archive-date=August 6, 2016 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> but was defeated by [[The Miz]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Melok |first=Bobby |date=August 21, 2016 |title=Intercontinental Champion The Miz def. Apollo Crews |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/intercontinental-champion-miz-vs-apollo-crews-result |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160823124730/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/intercontinental-champion-miz-vs-apollo-crews-result |archive-date=August 23, 2016 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> Crews lost to Corbin on September 11 during the [[Backlash (2016)|Backlash]] pre-show.<ref>{{cite web |last=Pappolla |first=Ryan |date=September 11, 2016 |title=Baron Corbin def. Apollo Crews |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/2016/apollo-crews-vs-baron-corbin-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915074330/https://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/2016/apollo-crews-vs-baron-corbin-results |archive-date=September 15, 2016 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> At [[TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs (2016)|TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs]] on December 4, Crews teamed with [[American Alpha]] ([[Chad Gable]] and [[Jason Jordan]]) and [[The Hype Bros]] ([[Mojo Rawley]] and [[Zack Ryder]]) in a win over [[Curt Hawkins]], [[The Vaudevillains]] ([[Aiden English]] and [[Simon Gotch]]), and [[The Ascension (professional wrestling)|The Ascension]] ([[Konnor (wrestler)|Konnor]] and [[Viktor (wrestler)|Viktor]]) in a [[Professional wrestling tag team match types#Multiple man teamed matches|10-man tag team match]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Melok |first1=Bobby |date=December 4, 2016 |title=Apollo Crews, American Alpha & The Hype Bros def. Curt Hawkins, The Vaudevillains & The Ascension |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwetlc/2016/apollo-crews-american-alpha-hype-bros-vs-curt-hawkins-vaudevillains-ascension-0 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170205034942/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwetlc/2016/apollo-crews-american-alpha-hype-bros-vs-curt-hawkins-vaudevillains-ascension-0 |archive-date=February 5, 2017 |access-date=December 4, 2016 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref>

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On the January 8, 2018 and January 15 episodes of ''Raw'', Crews and O'Neil defeated [[WWE Raw Tag Team Championship|Raw Tag Team Champions]] [[The Bar (professional wrestling)|Cesaro and Sheamus]] in [[Upset (sports)|upset victories]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |date=January 9, 2018 |title=KELLER'S WWE RAW REPORT 1/8: Reigns IC Title reign continues, Enzo vs. Cedric, the return of Miz, Lesnar responds and get crushed |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/01/08/kellers-wwe-raw-report-1-8-reigns-ic-title-reign-continues-enzo-vs-cedric-return-miz/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180916235126/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/01/08/kellers-wwe-raw-report-1-8-reigns-ic-title-reign-continues-enzo-vs-cedric-return-miz/ |archive-date=September 16, 2018 |access-date=January 9, 2018 |website=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Keller |first=Wade |date=January 15, 2018 |title=KELLER'S WWE RAW REPORT 1/15: Angle addresses Strowman after last week's big angle with Lesnar and Kane, more Rumble hype, Jax vs. Asuka |url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/01/15/kellers-wwe-raw-report-1-15-angle-addresses-strowman-last-weeks-big-angle-lesnar-kane-rumble-hype-jax-vs-asuka/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180116135605/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/01/15/kellers-wwe-raw-report-1-15-angle-addresses-strowman-last-weeks-big-angle-lesnar-kane-rumble-hype-jax-vs-asuka/ |archive-date=January 16, 2018 |access-date=February 6, 2018 |work=Pro Wrestling Torch |publisher=TDH Communications Inc.}}</ref> At [[Royal Rumble (2018)|Royal Rumble]] on January 28, Crews entered the Royal Rumble at #13 but was eliminated by [[Cesaro (wrestler)|Cesaro]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=January 28, 2018 |title=Shinsuke Nakamura won the 2018 Men's Royal Rumble Match |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2018/30-man-royal-rumble-match-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180201085349/https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2018/30-man-royal-rumble-match-results |archive-date=February 1, 2018 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On February 19, his ring name was shortened to simply "Apollo".<ref name="namechange">{{cite web |last=Rose |first=Bryan |date=February 19, 2018 |title=Apollo Crews loses his last name on WWE roster page |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe-news/apollo-crews-loses-his-last-name-wwe-roster-page-251991 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221130120749/https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe-news/apollo-crews-loses-his-last-name-wwe-roster-page-251991 |archive-date=November 30, 2022 |access-date=February 20, 2018 |work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> At [[Elimination Chamber (2018)|Elimination Chamber]] on February 25, Apollo and O'Neil failed to capture the titles,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=February 25, 2018 |title=Raw Tag Team Champions Cesaro & Sheamus def. Titus Worldwide |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/elimination-chamber-2018/cesaro-sheamus-titus-worldwide-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180331220741/https://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/elimination-chamber-2018/cesaro-sheamus-titus-worldwide-results |archive-date=March 31, 2018 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> and were again unsuccessful in a rematch the following night on ''Raw''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Adam |first=Martin |date=February 26, 2018 |title=WWE RAW Results – 2/26/18 (Brock Lesnar confronts Roman Reigns, Ronda Rousey) |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/98699-wwe-raw-results-february-26-2018/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180505045743/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/98699-wwe-raw-results-february-26-2018/ |archive-date=May 5, 2018 |access-date=May 6, 2018 |publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> At [[WrestleMania 34]] on April 8, he failed to win the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal.<ref>{{cite web |last=Carapola |first=Stuart |date=April 8, 2018 |title=COMPLETE WRESTLEMANIA 34 KICKOFF SHOW COVERAGE |url=https://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=116716&p=1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180722184907/https://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=116716&p=1 |archive-date=July 22, 2018 |access-date=April 9, 2018 |publisher=PWInsider}}</ref> On the April 16 episode of ''Raw'', his ring name was reverted to Apollo Crews.<ref>{{cite web |last=Tedesco |first=Mike |date=April 16, 2018 |title=WWE RAW Results – 4/16/18 (Night One of the WWE Superstar Shake-Up tonight in Hartford) |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/102206-april-16-2018-wwe-superstar-shake-up-night-one/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180418031858/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/102206-april-16-2018-wwe-superstar-shake-up-night-one/ |archive-date=April 18, 2018 |access-date=May 6, 2018 |publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> On the September 3 episode of ''Raw'', Dana Brooke parted ways with Titus Worldwide after mid-match coaching backfired, causing Brooke to lose her match.<ref>{{cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=September 3, 2018 |title=Sasha Banks & Bayley def. Ember Moon & Dana Brooke |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-09-03/article/sasha-banks-bayley-def-ember-moon-dana-brooke |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180904085007/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-09-03/article/sasha-banks-bayley-def-ember-moon-dana-brooke |archive-date=September 4, 2018 |access-date=September 4, 2018 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref>

On the October 15 episode of ''Raw'', Crews returned as a singles competitor when he interrupted Elias during his performance, thus disbanding Titus Worldwide.<ref>{{cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=October 15, 2018 |title=Apollo Crews confronted Elias |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-10-15/article/apollo-crews-confronted-elias |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181024192159/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-10-15/article/apollo-crews-confronted-elias |archive-date=October 24, 2018 |access-date=October 24, 2018 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> The following week, he lost to Elias.<ref>{{cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=October 22, 2018 |title=Elias def. Apollo Crews |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-10-22/article/elias-def-apollo-crews |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181024192053/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-10-22/article/elias-def-apollo-crews |archive-date=October 24, 2018 |access-date=October 24, 2018 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On the December 31 episode of ''Raw'', Crews won a battle royal by eliminating eight wrestlers to become the number one contender for the Intercontinental Championship against [[Jon Moxley|Dean Ambrose]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=December 31, 2018 |title=Apollo Crews won a Fresh Start Battle Royal to earn an Intercontinental Championship Match against Dean Ambrose |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-12-31/article/apollo-crews-won-fresh-start-battle-royal |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190106153903/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-12-31/article/apollo-crews-won-fresh-start-battle-royal |archive-date=January 6, 2019 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> That same night, he was defeated by Ambrose.<ref>{{cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=December 31, 2018 |title=Intercontinental Champion Dean Ambrose def. Apollo Crews |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-12-31/article/intercontinental-champion-dean-ambrose-def-apollo-crews |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190414032023/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-12-31/article/intercontinental-champion-dean-ambrose-def-apollo-crews |archive-date=April 14, 2019 |access-date=January 8, 2019 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On January 27, 2019, at the [[Royal Rumble (2019)|Royal Rumble]], Crews entered the Royal Rumble match at #20 but was eliminated by Baron Corbin.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=January 27, 2019 |title=Seth Rollins won the 30-Man Royal Rumble Match |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2019/2019-mens-royal-rumble-match-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190128191022/https://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2019/2019-mens-royal-rumble-match-results |archive-date=January 28, 2019 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On April 7, 2019, at [[WrestleMania 35]], Crews competed in the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, but was eliminated by [[Andrade (wrestler)|Andrade]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Powell |first1=Jason |date=April 7, 2019 |title=WrestleMania 35 Kickoff Show results: Powell's live review of the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, WWE Women's Battle Royal, Buddy Murphy vs. Tony Nese for the WWE Cruiserweight Championship |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/04/07/wrestlemania-35-kickoff-show-results-powells-live-review-of-the-andre-the-giant-memorial-battle-royal-wwe-womens-battle-royal-buddy-murphy-vs-tony-nese-for-the-wwe-cruiserweight-championship/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190407211601/https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/04/07/wrestlemania-35-kickoff-show-results-powells-live-review-of-the-andre-the-giant-memorial-battle-royal-wwe-womens-battle-royal-buddy-murphy-vs-tony-nese-for-the-wwe-cruiserweight-championship/ |archive-date=April 7, 2019 |access-date=April 7, 2019 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}</ref> As part of the [[2019 WWE Superstar Shake-up|Superstar Shake-up]], Crews was drafted back to the [[SmackDown (WWE brand)|SmackDown]] [[WWE brand extension|brand]].<ref>{{cite web |last= |first= |date=April 15, 2019 |title=WWE Superstar Shake-up 2019 results: Full list of Superstars who moved to Raw and SmackDown LIVE |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/article/superstar-shake-up-2019-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190417090028/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/article/superstar-shake-up-2019-results |archive-date=April 17, 2019 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> At [[SummerSlam (2019)|SummerSlam]] on August 11, Crews lost to [[Buddy Murphy]] by disqualification after interference from [[Erick Rowan]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Laboon |first1=Jeff |date=August 11, 2019 |title=Buddy Murphy def. Apollo Crews by Disqualification after Rowan interrupted |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2019/apollo-crews-buddy-murphy-summerslam-2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191214054211/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2019/apollo-crews-buddy-murphy-summerslam-2019 |archive-date=December 14, 2019 |access-date=August 11, 2019 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> In August, Crews competed in the [[King of the Ring (2019)|King of the Ring]] tournament, where was defeated by Andrade in the first round.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Powell |first1=Jason |date=August 20, 2019 |title=8/20 WWE Smackdown Live results: Powell's review of Daniel Bryan vs. Buddy Murphy, Kevin Owens vs. Elias and Apollo Crews vs. Andrade in first round King of the Ring tournament matches |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/08/20/8-20-wwe-smackdown-live-results-powells-review-of-daniel-bryan-vs-buddy-murphy-kevin-owens-vs-elias-and-apollo-crews-vs-andrade-in-first-round-king-of-the-ring-tournament-matches/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191215110717/https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/08/20/8-20-wwe-smackdown-live-results-powells-review-of-daniel-bryan-vs-buddy-murphy-kevin-owens-vs-elias-and-apollo-crews-vs-andrade-in-first-round-king-of-the-ring-tournament-matches/ |archive-date=December 15, 2019 |access-date=August 21, 2019 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}</ref>

==== ~~United~~Championship ~~States Champion~~reigns (~~2019–2020~~2020–2022) ====

On the April 6, 2020, episode of ''Raw'', Crews was traded to the [[Raw (WWE brand)|Raw]] brand, and lost to [[Aleister Black]] in his first match back as a Raw superstar.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=April 6, 2020 |title=Aleister Black def. Apollo Crews |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2020-04-06/article/aleister-black-def-apollo-crews |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200707045233/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2020-04-06/article/aleister-black-def-apollo-crews |archive-date=July 7, 2020 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On the April 20 episode of ''Raw'', Crews defeated [[Montel Vontavious Porter|MVP]] to qualify for the [[Money in the Bank (2020)|Money in the Bank]] [[Money in the Bank ladder match|ladder match]],<ref>{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=April 20, 2020 |title=4/20 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of Money in the Bank qualifying matches featuring Rey Mysterio vs. Murphy, Aleister Black vs. Austin Theory, MVP vs. Apollo Crews |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/04/20/4-20-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-money-in-the-bank-qualifying-matches-featuring-rey-mysterio-vs-murphy-aleister-black-vs-austin-theory-mvp-vs-apollo-crews/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024061100/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/04/20/4-20-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-money-in-the-bank-qualifying-matches-featuring-rey-mysterio-vs-murphy-aleister-black-vs-austin-theory-mvp-vs-apollo-crews/ |archive-date=October 24, 2020 |access-date=April 20, 2020 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}</ref> however, he injured his knee in a [[WWE United States Championship]] match against Andrade the following week, ruling him out of the ladder match.<ref>{{cite web |last= |first= |date=April 27, 2020 |title=Apollo Crews injured, out of Men's Money in the Bank Ladder Match |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/article/apollo-crews-injured-money-in-the-bank |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200618141631/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/article/apollo-crews-injured-money-in-the-bank |archive-date=June 18, 2020 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> Shortly after his return, off the back of a winning streak, on the May 25 episode of ''Raw'', Crews defeated Andrade to win the United States Championship, his first title in WWE.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Currier |first=Joseph |date=May 25, 2020 |title=Apollo Crews wins United States title on WWE Raw |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/apollo-crews-wins-united-states-title-wwe-raw-311821 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230511010218/https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/apollo-crews-wins-united-states-title-wwe-raw-311821 |archive-date=May 11, 2023 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |website=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> At [[Backlash (2020)|Backlash]] on June 14, Crews retained the title against Andrade in a rematch.<ref>{{cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=June 14, 2020 |title=United States Champion Apollo Crews def. Andrade (Kickoff Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/wwe-backlash-2020/united-states-champion-apollo-crews-def-andrade-kickoff-match |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200615040436/https://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/wwe-backlash-2020/united-states-champion-apollo-crews-def-andrade-kickoff-match |archive-date=June 15, 2020 |access-date=June 14, 2020 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> In June, he began a feud with [[The Hurt Business (professional wrestling)|The Hurt Business]] after Crews rejected an offer to join the stable. A title defense was set up between Crews and The Hurt Business' leader MVP on July 19 at [[The Horror Show at Extreme Rules]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Zak |first=Brad |date=July 7, 2020 |title=Apollo Crews vs. MVP – U.S. Title Match |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/apollo-crews-mvp-united-states-title-match |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200708113030/https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/apollo-crews-mvp-united-states-title-match |archive-date=July 8, 2020 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> however, Crews was absent at the event, and MVP declared himself as the new champion.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=July 19, 2020 |title=MVP declared himself the new United States Champion |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/mvp-declared-himself-the-new-united-states-champion |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200801215255/https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/mvp-declared-himself-the-new-united-states-champion |archive-date=August 1, 2020 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> In reality, Crews had tested positive for [[COVID-19]], though in storyline, he suffered a bulging disc as a result from an attack by [[Bobby Lashley]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Konuwa |first=Alfred |date=July 19, 2020 |title=WWE Extreme Rules 2020 Results: Apollo Crews off PPV Amid Twitter Speculation |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/alfredkonuwa/2020/07/19/wwe-extreme-rules-2020-results-apollo-crews-off-ppv-amid-twitter-speculation/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200721223718/https://www.forbes.com/sites/alfredkonuwa/2020/07/19/wwe-extreme-rules-2020-results-apollo-crews-off-ppv-amid-twitter-speculation/ |archive-date=July 21, 2020 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |website=[[Forbes]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Rose |first=Bryan |date=July 19, 2020 |title=Apollo Crews 'not able to compete' at WWE Extreme Rules |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/apollo-crews-not-able-compete-wwe-extreme-rules-315706 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221208232836/https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/apollo-crews-not-able-compete-wwe-extreme-rules-315706 |archive-date=December 8, 2022 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |website=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> Crews returned on the August 3 episode of ''Raw'' and retained the title against MVP,<ref>{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=August 3, 2020 |title=8/3 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of Shane McMahon returns, Apollo Crews vs. MVP for the U.S. Championship, Drew McIntyre and Randy Orton meet face to face, the arrival of a new faction, the SummerSlam build continues |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/08/03/8-3-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-shane-mcmahon-returns-apollo-crews-vs-mvp-for-the-u-s-championship-drew-mcintyre-and-randy-orton-meet-face-to-face-the-arrival-of-a-new-faction-the/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220319204456/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/08/03/8-3-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-shane-mcmahon-returns-apollo-crews-vs-mvp-for-the-u-s-championship-drew-mcintyre-and-randy-orton-meet-face-to-face-the-arrival-of-a-new-faction-the/ |archive-date=March 19, 2022 |access-date=August 3, 2020 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}</ref> as well as in a rematch on August 23 at [[SummerSlam (2020)|SummerSlam]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=August 23, 2020 |title=United States Champion Apollo Crews def. MVP (Kickoff Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2020/united-states-champion-apollo-crews-def-mvp-kickoff-match |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220207133852/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2020/united-states-champion-apollo-crews-def-mvp-kickoff-match |archive-date=February 7, 2022 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> Seven days later at [[Payback (2020)|Payback]] on August 30, Crews lost the United States Championship to Lashley.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=August 30, 2020 |title=Bobby Lashley def. Apollo Crews to become the new United States Champion |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/08-30-2020/bobby-lashley-def-apollo-crews-to-become-the-new-united-states-champion |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220618161837/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/08-30-2020/bobby-lashley-def-apollo-crews-to-become-the-new-united-states-champion |archive-date=June 18, 2022 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On September 27 at [[Clash of Champions (2020)|Clash of Champions]], Crews failed to regain the title from Lashley.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=September 27, 2020 |title=United States Champion Bobby Lashley def. Apollo Crews |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wweclashofchampions/09-27-2020/united-states-champion-bobby-lashley-def-apollo-crews |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201002011720/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wweclashofchampions/09-27-2020/united-states-champion-bobby-lashley-def-apollo-crews |archive-date=October 2, 2020 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> ▼

As part of the [[2019 WWE Superstar Shake-up|Superstar Shake-up]], Crews was drafted back to the [[SmackDown (WWE brand)|SmackDown]] [[WWE brand extension|brand]].<ref>{{cite web |last= |first= |date=April 15, 2019 |title=WWE Superstar Shake-up 2019 results: Full list of Superstars who moved to Raw and SmackDown LIVE |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/article/superstar-shake-up-2019-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190417090028/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/article/superstar-shake-up-2019-results |archive-date=April 17, 2019 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> At [[SummerSlam (2019)|SummerSlam]] on August 11, Crews lost to [[Buddy Murphy]] by disqualification after interference from [[Erick Rowan]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Laboon |first1=Jeff |date=August 11, 2019 |title=Buddy Murphy def. Apollo Crews by Disqualification after Rowan interrupted |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2019/apollo-crews-buddy-murphy-summerslam-2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191214054211/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2019/apollo-crews-buddy-murphy-summerslam-2019 |archive-date=December 14, 2019 |access-date=August 11, 2019 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> In August, Crews competed in the [[King of the Ring (2019)|King of the Ring]] tournament, where was defeated by Andrade in the first round.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Powell |first1=Jason |date=August 20, 2019 |title=8/20 WWE Smackdown Live results: Powell's review of Daniel Bryan vs. Buddy Murphy, Kevin Owens vs. Elias and Apollo Crews vs. Andrade in first round King of the Ring tournament matches |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/08/20/8-20-wwe-smackdown-live-results-powells-review-of-daniel-bryan-vs-buddy-murphy-kevin-owens-vs-elias-and-apollo-crews-vs-andrade-in-first-round-king-of-the-ring-tournament-matches/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191215110717/https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/08/20/8-20-wwe-smackdown-live-results-powells-review-of-daniel-bryan-vs-buddy-murphy-kevin-owens-vs-elias-and-apollo-crews-vs-andrade-in-first-round-king-of-the-ring-tournament-matches/ |archive-date=December 15, 2019 |access-date=August 21, 2019 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}</ref> On the April 6, 2020, episode of ''Raw'', Crews was traded to the [[Raw (WWE brand)|Raw]] brand, and lost to [[Aleister Black]] in his first match back as a Raw superstar.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Benigno |first=Anthony |date=April 6, 2020 |title=Aleister Black def. Apollo Crews |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2020-04-06/article/aleister-black-def-apollo-crews |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200707045233/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2020-04-06/article/aleister-black-def-apollo-crews |archive-date=July 7, 2020 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref>

As part of the [[2020 WWE Draft|2020 Draft]] in October, Crews was drafted back to the SmackDown brand.<ref>{{cite web |author= |date=October 9, 2020 |title=See all the results from the 2020 Draft |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/10-09-2020/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201016214644/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/10-09-2020/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2020 |archive-date=October 16, 2020 |access-date=October 12, 2020 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On the ~~January~~December ~~8, 2021,~~25 episode of ''SmackDown'', Crews helped [[Big E (wrestler)|Big E]] win the [[WWE Intercontinental Championship]] by preventing then-holder [[Sami Zayn]] from escaping the arena.<ref>{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=12/25 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of Roman Reigns vs. Kevin Owens in a cage match for the WWE Universal Title, Sami Zayn vs. Big E for the IC Title, Charlotte Flair and Asuka vs. Carmella and Bayley vs. Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair for the WWE Women's Tag Titles, Daniel Bryan vs. Jey Uso|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/12/25/12-25-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-roman-reigns-vs-kevin-owens-in-a-cage-match-for-the-wwe-universal-title-sami-zayn-vs-big-e-for-the-ic-title-charlotte-flair-and-asuka/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=December 25, 2020|access-date=March 27, 2024}}</ref> On the January 8, 2021 episode of ''SmackDown'', Big E issued an open challenge for the ~~[[WWE~~ Intercontinental Championship]], which Crews immediately accepted and lost.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Burdick |first=Michael |date=January 8, 2021 |title=SmackDown results, Jan. 8, 2021:The Head of the Table imposes his will on SmackDown's high-stakes Gauntlet Match |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2021-1-8 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210109060040/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2021-1-8 |archive-date=January 9, 2021 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On the February 19 episode of ''SmackDown'', after losing to [[Shinsuke Nakamura]], Crews attacked Big E, who was at ringside, turning [[Heel (professional wrestling)|heel]] for the first time in his career.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Burdick |first=Michael |date=February 18, 2021 |title=SmackDown results, Feb 19, 2021: Reigns stands tall en route to WWE Elimination Chamber |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2021-2-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515023309/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2021-2-19 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref>▼

▲On the April 20 episode of ''Raw'', Crews defeated [[Montel Vontavious Porter|MVP]] to qualify for the [[Money in the Bank (2020)|Money in the Bank]] [[Money in the Bank ladder match|ladder match]],<ref>{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=April 20, 2020 |title=4/20 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of Money in the Bank qualifying matches featuring Rey Mysterio vs. Murphy, Aleister Black vs. Austin Theory, MVP vs. Apollo Crews |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/04/20/4-20-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-money-in-the-bank-qualifying-matches-featuring-rey-mysterio-vs-murphy-aleister-black-vs-austin-theory-mvp-vs-apollo-crews/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024061100/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/04/20/4-20-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-money-in-the-bank-qualifying-matches-featuring-rey-mysterio-vs-murphy-aleister-black-vs-austin-theory-mvp-vs-apollo-crews/ |archive-date=October 24, 2020 |access-date=April 20, 2020 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}</ref> however, he injured his knee in a [[WWE United States Championship]] match against Andrade the following week, ruling him out of the ladder match.<ref>{{cite web |last= |first= |date=April 27, 2020 |title=Apollo Crews injured, out of Men's Money in the Bank Ladder Match |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/article/apollo-crews-injured-money-in-the-bank |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200618141631/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/article/apollo-crews-injured-money-in-the-bank |archive-date=June 18, 2020 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> Shortly after his return, off the back of a winning streak, on the May 25 episode of ''Raw'', Crews defeated Andrade to win the United States Championship, his first title in WWE.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Currier |first=Joseph |date=May 25, 2020 |title=Apollo Crews wins United States title on WWE Raw |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/apollo-crews-wins-united-states-title-wwe-raw-311821 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230511010218/https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/apollo-crews-wins-united-states-title-wwe-raw-311821 |archive-date=May 11, 2023 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |website=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> At [[Backlash (2020)|Backlash]] on June 14, Crews retained the title against Andrade in a rematch.<ref>{{cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=June 14, 2020 |title=United States Champion Apollo Crews def. Andrade (Kickoff Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/wwe-backlash-2020/united-states-champion-apollo-crews-def-andrade-kickoff-match |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200615040436/https://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/wwe-backlash-2020/united-states-champion-apollo-crews-def-andrade-kickoff-match |archive-date=June 15, 2020 |access-date=June 14, 2020 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> In June, he began a feud with [[The Hurt Business (professional wrestling)|The Hurt Business]] after Crews rejected an offer to join the stable. A title defense was set up between Crews and The Hurt Business' leader MVP on July 19 at [[The Horror Show at Extreme Rules]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Zak |first=Brad |date=July 7, 2020 |title=Apollo Crews vs. MVP – U.S. Title Match |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/apollo-crews-mvp-united-states-title-match |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200708113030/https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/apollo-crews-mvp-united-states-title-match |archive-date=July 8, 2020 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> however, Crews was absent at the event, and MVP declared himself as the new champion.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=July 19, 2020 |title=MVP declared himself the new United States Champion |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/mvp-declared-himself-the-new-united-states-champion |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200801215255/https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/mvp-declared-himself-the-new-united-states-champion |archive-date=August 1, 2020 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> In reality, Crews had tested positive for [[COVID-19]], though in storyline, he suffered a bulging disc as a result from an attack by [[Bobby Lashley]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Konuwa |first=Alfred |date=July 19, 2020 |title=WWE Extreme Rules 2020 Results: Apollo Crews off PPV Amid Twitter Speculation |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/alfredkonuwa/2020/07/19/wwe-extreme-rules-2020-results-apollo-crews-off-ppv-amid-twitter-speculation/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200721223718/https://www.forbes.com/sites/alfredkonuwa/2020/07/19/wwe-extreme-rules-2020-results-apollo-crews-off-ppv-amid-twitter-speculation/ |archive-date=July 21, 2020 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |website=[[Forbes]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Rose |first=Bryan |date=July 19, 2020 |title=Apollo Crews 'not able to compete' at WWE Extreme Rules |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/apollo-crews-not-able-compete-wwe-extreme-rules-315706 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221208232836/https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/apollo-crews-not-able-compete-wwe-extreme-rules-315706 |archive-date=December 8, 2022 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |website=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> Crews returned on the August 3 episode of ''Raw'' and retained the title against MVP,<ref>{{cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=August 3, 2020 |title=8/3 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of Shane McMahon returns, Apollo Crews vs. MVP for the U.S. Championship, Drew McIntyre and Randy Orton meet face to face, the arrival of a new faction, the SummerSlam build continues |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/08/03/8-3-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-shane-mcmahon-returns-apollo-crews-vs-mvp-for-the-u-s-championship-drew-mcintyre-and-randy-orton-meet-face-to-face-the-arrival-of-a-new-faction-the/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220319204456/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/08/03/8-3-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-shane-mcmahon-returns-apollo-crews-vs-mvp-for-the-u-s-championship-drew-mcintyre-and-randy-orton-meet-face-to-face-the-arrival-of-a-new-faction-the/ |archive-date=March 19, 2022 |access-date=August 3, 2020 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}</ref> as well as in a rematch on August 23 at [[SummerSlam (2020)|SummerSlam]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=August 23, 2020 |title=United States Champion Apollo Crews def. MVP (Kickoff Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2020/united-states-champion-apollo-crews-def-mvp-kickoff-match |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220207133852/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2020/united-states-champion-apollo-crews-def-mvp-kickoff-match |archive-date=February 7, 2022 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> Seven days later at [[Payback (2020)|Payback]] on August 30, Crews lost the United States Championship to Lashley.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=August 30, 2020 |title=Bobby Lashley def. Apollo Crews to become the new United States Champion |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/08-30-2020/bobby-lashley-def-apollo-crews-to-become-the-new-united-states-champion |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220618161837/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/08-30-2020/bobby-lashley-def-apollo-crews-to-become-the-new-united-states-champion |archive-date=June 18, 2022 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On September 27 at [[Clash of Champions (2020)|Clash of Champions]], Crews failed to regain the title from Lashley.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=September 27, 2020 |title=United States Champion Bobby Lashley def. Apollo Crews |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wweclashofchampions/09-27-2020/united-states-champion-bobby-lashley-def-apollo-crews |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201002011720/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wweclashofchampions/09-27-2020/united-states-champion-bobby-lashley-def-apollo-crews |archive-date=October 2, 2020 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref>

~~==== Intercontinental Champion (2020–2021) ====~~

▲As part of the [[2020 WWE Draft|2020 Draft]] in October, Crews was drafted back to the SmackDown brand.<ref>{{cite web |author= |date=October 9, 2020 |title=See all the results from the 2020 Draft |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/10-09-2020/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201016214644/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/10-09-2020/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2020 |archive-date=October 16, 2020 |access-date=October 12, 2020 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On the January 8, 2021, episode of ''SmackDown'', [[Big E (wrestler)|Big E]] issued an open challenge for the [[WWE Intercontinental Championship]], which Crews immediately accepted and lost.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Burdick |first=Michael |date=January 8, 2021 |title=SmackDown results, Jan. 8, 2021:The Head of the Table imposes his will on SmackDown's high-stakes Gauntlet Match |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2021-1-8 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210109060040/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2021-1-8 |archive-date=January 9, 2021 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On the February 19 episode of ''SmackDown'', after losing to [[Shinsuke Nakamura]], Crews attacked Big E, who was at ringside, turning [[Heel (professional wrestling)|heel]] for the first time in his career.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Burdick |first=Michael |date=February 18, 2021 |title=SmackDown results, Feb 19, 2021: Reigns stands tall en route to WWE Elimination Chamber |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2021-2-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515023309/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2021-2-19 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref>

Crews would then debut a new character where he declared himself [[Nigeria]]n royalty,<ref>{{cite news |last=Guzzo |first=Gisberto |date=February 26, 2021 |title=Apollo Crews Says He's A Real African American, Uses Angle Slam As A Finisher On WWE Smackdown |website=Fightful |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/apollo-crews-says-he-s-real-african-american-uses-angle-slam-finisher-wwe-smackdown |access-date=February 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730101920/https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/apollo-crews-says-he-s-real-african-american-uses-angle-slam-finisher-wwe-smackdown |archive-date=July 30, 2021}}</ref> began to speak with a Nigerian accent in his promos in order to "embrace who he really is" and began coming to the ring with a spear.<ref>{{cite web |last=Barnett |first=Jake |date=March 5, 2021 |title=3/5 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Barnett's review of Daniel Bryan vs. Jey Uso in a steel cage match, Bianca Belair vs. Shayna Baszler, the WWE Fastlane build continues |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/03/05/3-5-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-barnetts-review-of-daniel-bryan-vs-jey-uso-in-a-steel-cage-match-bianca-belair-vs-shayna-baszler-the-wwe-fastlane-build-continues/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210310023416/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/03/05/3-5-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-barnetts-review-of-daniel-bryan-vs-jey-uso-in-a-steel-cage-match-bianca-belair-vs-shayna-baszler-the-wwe-fastlane-build-continues/ |archive-date=March 10, 2021 |access-date=March 6, 2021 |work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}</ref> On March 21 at [[Fastlane (2021)|Fastlane]], Crews failed to win the Intercontinental Championship from Big E.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=March 21, 2021 |title=Intercontinental Champion Big E def. Apollo Crews |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwefastlane/2021/big-e-vs-apollo-crew-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210322100042/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwefastlane/2021/big-e-vs-apollo-crew-results |archive-date=March 22, 2021 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On the April 2 episode of ''SmackDown'', Crews challenged Big E at [[WrestleMania 37]] in a [[Hardcore Match|Nigerian Drum Fight]] for the title, which Big E accepted.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=April 2, 2021 |title=4/2 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of the build to Roman Reigns vs. Edge vs. Daniel Bryan on the penultimate show before WrestleMania 37, the Sami Zayn's red carpet documentary premiere with Logan Paul |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/04/02/4-2-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-the-build-to-roman-reigns-vs-edge-vs-daniel-bryan-on-the-penultimate-show-before-wrestlemania-37-the-sami-zayns-red-carpet-documentary/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210403020914/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/04/02/4-2-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-the-build-to-roman-reigns-vs-edge-vs-daniel-bryan-on-the-penultimate-show-before-wrestlemania-37-the-sami-zayns-red-carpet-documentary/ |archive-date=April 3, 2021 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Zak |first=Brad |date=March 26, 2021 |title=Intercontinental Champion Big E vs. Apollo Crews (Nigerian Drum Fight) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-37/big-e-vs-apollo-crews |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411064228/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-37/big-e-vs-apollo-crews |archive-date=April 11, 2021 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |website= |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On the second night of the event on April 11, he defeated Big E with the help of [[Dabba-Kato|Commander Azeez]] to win the Intercontinental Championship.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Garretson |first=Jordan |date=April 11, 2021 |title=Apollo Crews def. Big E in a Nigerian Drum Fight to become the new Intercontinental Champion |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-37-night-2/big-e-vs-apollo-crews-results |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210412042944/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-37-night-2/big-e-vs-apollo-crews-results |archive-date=April 12, 2021 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> Crews then successfully retained his title against [[Kevin Owens]] on the April 23 episode of ''SmackDown'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nemer |first=Roy |date=April 23, 2021 |title=WWE SmackDown Results – 4/23/21 (Intercontinental Championship match, Post-Show) |url=https://www.wrestleview.com/featured/189375-wwe-smackdown-results-4-23-21-intercontinental-championship-match-post-show/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210425113412/https://www.wrestleview.com/featured/189375-wwe-smackdown-results-4-23-21-intercontinental-championship-match-post-show/ |archive-date=April 25, 2021 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> against Owens, Big E, and Sami Zayn in a [[fatal four-way match]] on the May 21 episode of ''SmackDown'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nemer |first=Roy |date=May 21, 2021 |title=WWE SmackDown Results – 5/21/21 (Intercontinental Championship match, Backlash fall-out) |url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/191537-wwe-smackdown-results-5-21-21-intercontinental-championship-match-backlash-fall-out/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210623085328/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/191537-wwe-smackdown-results-5-21-21-intercontinental-championship-match-backlash-fall-out/ |archive-date=June 23, 2021 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> and against Owens again on the June 4 episode of ''SmackDown''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nemer |first=Roy |date=June 4, 2021 |title=WWE SmackDown Results – 6/04/21 (WWE Intercontinental Championship Match, Tag Team Championship) |url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/192422-wwe-smackdown-results-6-04-21-wwe-tag-team-championship-match-bayley-challenge/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210616205539/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/192422-wwe-smackdown-results-6-04-21-wwe-tag-team-championship-match-bayley-challenge/ |archive-date=June 16, 2021 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> On the August 13 episode of ''SmackDown'', Crews lost the title to King Nakamura, ending his reign at 124 days.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bath |first=Dave |date=August 13, 2021 |title=WWE SmackDown live results: Reigns and Cena go face-to-face |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/results/wwe-smackdown-live-results-reigns-and-cena-go-face-face-349916 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220108005423/https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/results/wwe-smackdown-live-results-reigns-and-cena-go-face-face-349916 |archive-date=January 8, 2022 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |website=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref> He failed to win the title in a rematch on the September 24 episode of ''SmackDown''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bath |first=Dave |date=September 24, 2021 |title=WWE SmackDown live results: Extreme Rules go-home show |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/results/wwe-smackdown-live-results-extreme-rules-go-home-show-354406 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220108015903/https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/results/wwe-smackdown-live-results-extreme-rules-go-home-show-354406 |archive-date=January 8, 2022 |access-date=May 10, 2023 |website=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]}}</ref>