The betting odds for this Saturday night’s NXT TakeOver: XXV live WWE Network special are in.
With only a couple of days remaining before the milestone NXT TakeOver event, the folks at Sky Bet have released their latest betting odds for all five matches on the card.
Currently, Johnny Gargano is the 4/7 betting favorite to retain the NXT Championship in his rematch against Adam Cole in the main event. On the flip side of the coin, Cole is a slight 5/4 betting underdog.
In the co-main event of the show, Shayna Baszler is currently the 4/6 favorite to retain her NXT Women’s Championship. Not at all too far behind “The Queen of Spades” from a betting standpoint is Shirai as the narrow underdog at 11/10.
The Undisputed Era (Kyle O’Reilly & Bobby Fish) are currently the 7/4 favorites to win the Ladder Match for the vacant NXT Tag-Team Championships. The Street Profits are the second favorites at 9/4, followed by The Forgotten Sons at 11/4. The team of Oney Lorcan & Danny Burch are the clear-cut betting underdogs at 11/2.
For the NXT North American Championship, Velveteen Dream is the 1/4 favorite to retain his title against former WWE main roster Superstar Tyler Breeze. Meanwhile, Breeze is the 11/4 underdog.
Matt Riddle is currently the big 3/10 betting favorite to walk out of NXT TakeOver: XXV with the win. Strong is currently a 12/5 underdog.
NXT TakeOver: XXV Results Coverage At SEScoops.com
For more analysis and insight into Saturday night’s NXT TakeOver: XXV live special, check out our SEScoops.com Staff Predictions Roundtable for the show. The feature includes three veteran wrestling reporters breaking down and predicting the winner of each match scheduled for the show.
What do YOU think of the NXT TakeOver: XXV betting odds? Share your thoughts on who the experts are picking to win Saturday night’s matches, and leave your own predictions for the event in the Comments section below!
NXT TakeOver: XXV goes down from the Webster Bank Arena in Bridgeport, Connecticut on Saturday, June 1st. The show will stream live via the WWE Network. Make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com on Saturday evening for live results coverage of the event.
WWE will be premiering their new WWE Performance Center Combine special on the WWE Network on Sunday afternoon. Less than 24-hours before the special premieres, the company has released some preview clips to get fans ready for the show.
Scheduled to premiere at 2pm Eastern Time / 11am Pacific Time on the WWE Network on Sunday, the WWE Performance Center Combine will feature NXT Superstars competing in a battery of athletic events.
WWE.com released the following regarding Sunday’s special:
Watch the 2019 WWE PC Combine this Sunday on WWE Network
This Sunday, for the first time ever on WWE Network, you’ll be able to watch as NXT Superstars and WWE Performance Center recruits put their athleticism to the test in the 2019 WWE PC Combine.
Similar to the annual NFL Combine, the WWE PC Combine uses several different disciplines to measure the strength and athletic conditioning of NXT Superstars. Which Superstars can dead lift the heaviest weight or run the ropes the fastest?
Find out when the 2019 WWE PC Combine streams this Sunday at 2/1 C, exclusively on the award-winning WWE Network.
Who will have the strength, the speed, and the spirit to make it to the end?
On Saturday, WWE announced via their official website and various social media channels that they will be teaming up with independent pro wrestling promotion WXW-C4 (World Xtreme Wrestling C4) for an “incredible crossover event.”
WWE announced that they will be partnering up with the Allentown, Pennsylvania-based indy promotion WXW-C4, which is run by WWE Hall Of Famers Samu and Afa Jr., for a special fundraising event with the proceeds being donated to Samu Anoa’i.
Samu is best known to WWE fans as one-half of The Headshrinkers tag-team, which also included Fatu, who would go on to perform as Rikishi later in his WWE career.
WWE.com released the following announcement this afternoon regarding next Wednesday’s Samu Anoa’i Transplant Fundraiser event:
WWE Superstars to be in Allentown, Pa. this Wednesday for incredible crossover event
Sports-entertainment enthusiasts in Allentown, Pa. are in for an incredible treat this Wednesday night when WWE and WXW-C4 come together for a great cause.
Samoa Joe, Kassius Ohno, Billy Kidman, WWE Hall of Famer Michael “P.S.” Hayes and more Superstars will be in attendance for a WXW-C4 fundraiser for Samu Anoa’i, remembered by WWE Universe members as Samu and one half of The Headshrinkers.
To witness the event live, head to the Mt. Ville Sports Center in Allentown, Pa. on Wednesday, May 29. For more info on this crossover event for a great cause, click here!
Honored to be asked to be a part the @greatsamu liver transplant benefit show on 5/29/19 in Allentown, PA. Since 2005 the Anoa’i family has been a very important part in my journey in this business. @WWE & @WXWC4 come together! pic.twitter.com/4JxVZjvQDA
On Saturday afternoon, just hours before the event gets underway at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, the Twitter feed for All Elite Wrestling (AEW) announced a new entrant for the 21-Man Casino Battle Royale scheduled for the “Buy-In” pre-show on tonight’s DOUBLE OR NOTHING pay-per-view.
AEW confirmed Orange Cassidy will join the pack of entrants for tonight’s pre-show Casino Battle Royale, which currently includes: Sonny Kiss, Brandon Cutler, Ace Romero, Glacier, Brian Pillman Jr., Sunny Daze, MJF, Joey Janela, Dustin Thomas, Billy Gunn, Jimmy Havoc, Michael Nakazawa, Jungle Boy, Isiah Kassidy, Marq Quen, Luchasaurus and Shawn Spears.
The rest of the AEW: Double Or Nothing lineup for tonight looks like this:
AEW DOUBLE OR NOTHING 2019
Alpha vs. Omega II
* Chris Jericho vs. Kenny Omega
Nightmare vs. Natural
* Cody vs. Dustin
AAA Tag-Team Championships
* The Young Bucks (Matt Jackson & Nick Jackson) vs. The Lucha Bros (Pentagon Jr. & Fenix)
Six Man Tag-Team Match
* SoCal Uncensored (Christopher Daniels, Frankie Kazarian & Scorpio Sky) vs. Strong Hearts (Cima, T-Hawk & El Lindaman)
Women’s Triple-Threat Match
* Britt Baker vs. Nyla Rose vs. Kylie Rae
Tag-Team Match
* Best Friends (Chuck Taylor & Trent Beretta) vs. Angelico & Jack Evans
Six Woman Tag-Team Match
* Aja Kong, Yuka Sakazaki & Emi Sakura vs. Hikaru Shida, Riho Abe & Ryo Mizunami
21-Man Casino Battle Royale (“Buy-In” PRE-SHOW)
* Sonny Kiss vs. Brandon Cutler vs. Ace Romero vs. Glacier vs. Brian Pillman Jr. vs. Sunny Daze vs. MJF vs. Joey Janela vs. Dustin Thomas vs. Billy Gunn vs. Jimmy Havoc vs. Michael Nakazawa vs. Jungle Boy vs. Isiah Kassidy vs. Marq Quen vs. Luchasaurus vs. Shawn Spears vs. Orange Cassidy vs. TBD vs. TBD vs. TBD
Singles Match (“Buy-In” PRE-SHOW)
* Kip Sabian vs. Sammy Guevara
Who Are Your Guesses For Final 3 Entrants In Casino Battle Royale?
With 21-entrants scheduled for the contest, this leaves three spots yet-to-be-filled for the match. Who do you think the three remaining entrants will be? Who is your pick to win the 21-Man Casino Battle Royale? Sound off in the “Comments” section below.
AEW: Double Or Nothing Results Coverage At SEScoops.com
AEW presents their Double Or Nothing event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. The show will air live via pay-per-view, and will be available via the Bleacher Report (B/R) Live online streaming service for $49.99.
Make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com later this evening for AEW: Double Or Nothing results coverage.
On Saturday, Impact Wrestling announced the main event of their next IMPACT+ live special, “A Night You Can’t Mist.”
ECW Original Tommy Dreamer will be joining forces with Japanese legend The Great Muta for a tag-team bout against Johnny Impact and Michael Elgin in the main event of Impact Wrestling: A Night You Can’t Mist on Saturday, June 8th from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The Main Event for A Night You Can’t MIST LIVE on IMPACT+ on Saturday, June 8th from the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia is going to be The Great Muta teaming with Tommy Dreamer to face Johnny IMPACT and Michael Elgin! We have seen IMPACT and Elgin become quick friends on IMPACT Wrestling and they will be tested against the legend The Great Muta and the Extreme Icon Tommy Dreamer LIVE on IMPACT+ on a very special night. A match like this deserves a Special Guest Referee and it doesn’t get better than Jerry Lynn to hold that position. Jerry, like Tommy, is an ECW throwback and a former X-Division Champion.
The only way to witness this great match is by either being at the 2300 Arena or by downloading and subscribing to IMPACT+ today! Tickets are available HERE and a subscription to IMPACT+ is only one click away!
More matches will be announced this weekend, but the Main Event is newsworthy in a major way. Johnny IMPACT and Michael Elgin are looking to take over IMPACT Wrestling in a big time way and imagine what would happen if they can somehow find a way to defeat Tommy Dreamer and The Great Muta in Philly at the 2300 Arena. The very venue that was once the ECW Arena, the very venue that Tommy Dreamer spilled his blood, sweat and tears. Then you have one of the most iconic and legendary figures in all of pro wrestling, The Great Muta.
Having competed over the past several decades all over the world, The Great Muta is a mystifying adversary for anyone even in 2019. From the land of the Rising Sun, complete with his signature mist and lightening quick elbow, The Great Muta is still someone athletes today study and try to emulate inside a wrestling ring.
The Great Muta will look to put on a display on Saturday, June 8th in Philly. Imagine what Muta might have to pull out against someone like Johnny IMPACT. The comparison could be made that Johnny IMPACT has been heavily influenced in his career by someone like The Great Muta and they will meet in this tag team match that will truly be once in a lifetime for all four men. Don’t miss it on Saturday, June 8th on IMPACT+.
Want to know the MAIN EVENT for “A Night You Can’t MIST” exclusively on IMPACT+ on Saturday, June 8th?
While in town for Starrcast 2 weekend in Las Vegas, Nevada, former WCW Executive Vice President Eric Bischoff spoke with Inside The Ropes about All Elite Wrestling (AEW) securing a cable television deal with TNT to compete against WWE, and some of the similarities to his past rivalry against the sports entertainment conglomerate during the infamous “Monday Night Wars.”
During the discussion, Bischoff discussed AEW coming along at a time when the pro wrestling audience is craving an alternative product to WWE now more than ever.
“The audience now has finally gotten to the point where they really are craving something different,” said Bischoff. “It doesn’t have to be better, it just has to be different.”
Eric Bischoff Explains Why Now Is Perfect Time For AEW
Bischoff would go on to elaborate, explaining why he feels now is the perfect time for AEW to establish themselves as a legitimate alternative product to the longtime industry leader, WWE.
“I think what AEW has the opportunity to do now is to present the product in a different and unique way that’s unique enough so that wrestling fans can feel like they honestly have a legitimate alternative, but not so unique that it doesn’t look like wrestling anymore,” Bischoff explained. “That’s a very good position to be in and I envy them for being in the position that they’ve put themselves into [because] they’ve worked hard for this.”
AEW Should Ignore The Past, Establish Their Own Identity
From there, the interviewer brought up some of the subtle nods to the past wrestling war between WWE and WCW, such as AEW having flames in their official TNT graphic, similar to the official logo that WCW Monday Nitro had when they were on TNT competing against WWE on Monday nights. He then asked if AEW should make a point to tip their cap to the past “War,” noting that they could have Brian Pillman Jr. vs. Jushin Thunder Liger as the opening match on their debut episode on TNT, the same way Nitro had Brian Pillman vs. Jushin Thunder Liger as the opener on their inaugural Nitro broadcast back on September 4, 1995.
“I would stay away from it in the beginning,” said Bischoff. “Because you don’t want to hang your hat on, or brand yourself too closely with, something like Nitro.”
Bischoff continued, “Nitro came along at a point in time that was very unique. We went directly head-to-head with WWE. AEW is not going to do that. So rather than relying too much on that association, I would establish my own brand first and after I get a little bit of momentum on my own, then I would probably do a wink and a nod over to Nitro, or to some of the previous relationships, but I wouldn’t depend on it and I wouldn’t come out of the shoot doing it.
“Because if it was me, the last thing I want people to do is to compare me to Monday Nitro during the Monday Night Wars, because that situation will never happen again. The world has changed in too many different ways for that opportunity to be there again. So rather than comparing my brand to WCW or to Nitro, I would want to stand on my own.”
AEW: Double Or Nothing Results Coverage At SEScoops.com
AEW will stand on their own later this evening when they present their Double Or Nothing event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. The show will air live via pay-per-view, and will be available via the Bleacher Report (B/R) Live online streaming service for $49.99. For the complete card, as well as detailed insight and analysis on each match on the card from veteran pro wrestling journalists, check out our AEW Double Or Nothing Predictions roundtable feature.
Make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com tonight for AEW Double Or Nothing 2019 results coverage.
With their vision coming to fruition this Saturday night at the show they helped put together, Double Or Nothing, The Young Bucks sat down with Justin Barrasso (@JustinBarrasso) of Sports Illustrated to promote the inaugural All Elite Wrestling (AEW) pay-per-view event.
“It’s exciting to know that so many fans who may not have seen or even heard about us now have the opportunity to do so,” said Matt Jackson when referrin to the AEW on TNT show. “TNT will shine a spotlight on so many talented wrestlers who look, feel and sound so different than what casual fans might be used to.”
During the interview, Barrasso broke the news to Nick and Matt Jackson that WWE is already planning to air programming directly opposite their show. The SI journalist informed them that WWE has a Tuesday night program that is rumored to be premiering on FOX Sports 1 (FS1) after the company moves SmackDown Live from USA Network to FOX as part of their new cable television deal.
“I didn’t know any other wrestling organization was planning on airing opposite of us until this interview,” Matt said in response to the news. “So, that’s news to me!”
Nick Jackson, however, took things a bit further. Nick would go on to talk about the pro wrestling business needing competition right now, so he’s happy to hear the news.
“I love it,” said Nick. “That’s exactly what wrestling needs right now, competition. They’ve been so comfortable for the last two decades that they need something like this. This only helps the whole landscape of wrestling.”
The Young Bucks also discussed the creative process behind-the-scenes at the new upstart wrestling promotion, which also consists of creative input from other AEW executives, including Tony Khan, Cody Rhodes, Brandi Rhodes and Kenny Omega, just to name a few.
“The creative team is essentially a group chat that goes 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” Matt said of the creative process in AEW. “Some people in the group think a bit more traditionally, while others think super outside the box. We always come to some sort of agreement, somewhere in the middle. It’s a recipe that works. The process has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding.”
Nick offered his brief follow-up, agreeing that the group has had a good cross-balance that has “meshed well” thus far.
“So far, it’s been pretty good,” said Nick. “We all are fantastic at separate things and, when we come together, it all meshes well.”
“I was actually very sad to see him taken off,” said Nick about the WWE legend being forced out of his advertised appearance. “Fans would’ve loved to meet him in Vegas.”
AEW: Double Or Nothing 2019 goes down from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada on Saturday, May 25th. The show will air live via pay-per-view, and will be available via the Bleacher Report (B/R) Live online streaming service for $49.99.
Featured below is the current advertised lineup heading into Saturday night’s AEW PPV:
AEW DOUBLE OR NOTHING 2019
Alpha vs. Omega II
* Chris Jericho vs. Kenny Omega
Nightmare vs. Natural
* Cody vs. Dustin
AAA Tag-Team Championships
* The Young Bucks (Matt Jackson & Nick Jackson) vs. The Lucha Bros (Pentagon Jr. & Fenix)
Six Man Tag-Team Match
* SoCal Uncensored (Christopher Daniels, Frankie Kazarian & Scorpio Sky) vs. Strong Hearts (Cima, T-Hawk & El Lindaman)
Women’s Triple-Threat Match
* Britt Baker vs. Nyla Rose vs. Kylie Rae
Tag-Team Match
* Best Friends (Chuck Taylor & Trent Beretta) vs. Angelico & Jack Evans
Six Woman Tag-Team Match
* Aja Kong, Yuka Sakazaki & Emi Sakura vs. Hikaru Shida, Riho Abe & Ryo Mizunami
21-Man Casino Battle Royale (“Buy-In” PRE-SHOW)
* Sonny Kiss vs. Brandon Cutler vs. Ace Romero vs. Glacier vs. Brian Pillman Jr. vs. Sunny Daze vs. MJF vs. Joey Janela vs. Dustin Thomas vs. Billy Gunn vs. Jimmy Havoc vs. Michael Nakazawa vs. Jungle Boy vs. Isiah Kassidy vs. Marq Quen vs. Luchasaurus vs. Shawn Spears vs. TBD vs. TBD vs. TBD vs. TBD
Singles Match (“Buy-In” PRE-SHOW)
* Kip Sabian vs. Sammy Guevara
The anticipation continues to grow as we are just one day away from the inaugural All Elite Wrestling pay-per-view event, Double Or Nothing, and on Friday, the excitement reached a fever-pitch with the release of a new full-length AEW documentary.
AEW released a near hour-long documentary special on their official YouTube channel on Friday afternoon, just hours before the anticipation heightens even further with the Double Or Nothing official weigh-ins and press conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The 46-minute documentary is titled, Before The Bell: The Story of All Elite Wrestling, and features the complete story of how a group of passionate wrestlers on a mission changed the industry and sparked a new professional wrestling revolution.
AEW: Double Or Nothing goes down from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada on Saturday, May 25, 2019. The show will air live via pay-per-view, and will be available via the Bleacher Report (B/R) Live online streaming service for $49.99.
Featured below is the current advertised lineup heading into Saturday night’s AEW PPV:
AEW DOUBLE OR NOTHING 2019
Alpha vs. Omega II
* Chris Jericho vs. Kenny Omega
Nightmare vs. Natural
* Cody vs. Dustin
AAA Tag-Team Championships
* The Young Bucks (Matt Jackson & Nick Jackson) vs. The Lucha Bros (Pentagon Jr. & Fenix)
Six Man Tag-Team Match
* SoCal Uncensored (Christopher Daniels, Frankie Kazarian & Scorpio Sky) vs. Strong Hearts (Cima, T-Hawk & El Lindaman)
Women’s Triple-Threat Match
* Britt Baker vs. Nyla Rose vs. Kylie Rae
Tag-Team Match
* Best Friends (Chuck Taylor & Trent Beretta) vs. Angelico & Jack Evans
Six Woman Tag-Team Match
* Aja Kong, Yuka Sakazaki & Emi Sakura vs. Hikaru Shida, Riho Abe & Ryo Mizunami
21-Man Casino Battle Royale (“Buy-In” PRE-SHOW)
* Sonny Kiss vs. Brandon Cutler vs. Ace Romero vs. Glacier vs. Brian Pillman Jr. vs. Sunny Daze vs. MJF vs. Joey Janela vs. Dustin Thomas vs. Billy Gunn vs. Jimmy Havoc vs. Michael Nakazawa vs. Jungle Boy vs. Isiah Kassidy vs. Marq Quen vs. Luchasaurus vs. Shawn Spears vs. TBD vs. TBD vs. TBD vs. TBD
Singles Match (“Buy-In” PRE-SHOW)
* Kip Sabian vs. Sammy Guevara
The movement that began with the successful ALL IN venture last September has led to the launch of the brand new All Elite Wrestling pro wrestling promotion, which presents its’ inaugural event, Double Or Nothing, under the AEW banner this weekend.
AEW Double Or Nothing goes down from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada on Saturday, May 25th. The card features a highly-anticipated lineup of some of the best matches that can be made without using talent currently signed to WWE.
Headlined by the “Alpha vs. Omega II” showdown between Chris Jericho and Kenny Omega, AEW Double Or Nothing also features the brother versus brother battle years in the making between Cody Rhodes and Dustin Rhodes, The Young Bucks vs. The Lucha Bros and much more.
SEScoops.com writers Ian Carey, Andrew Ravens and Jeff Moss have prepared their predictions for each of the matches scheduled for Saturday night’s big event. Without further adieu, here are the SEScoops.com staff predictions for AEW Double Or Nothing.
Kip Sabian vs. Sammy Guevara (Pre-Show)
Ian Carey: On BTE as of late, it’s become clear that nobody (not even his mother) likes Sammy Guevara. He’s still going to beat Kip Sabian on the pre-show, however. Guevara is the AAA Cruiserweight Champion and will likely be featured prominently in AEW. (Prediction: Sammy Guevara)
Andrew Ravens: Here’s a prime time example of a sleeper match that not many people know of these two guys but Guevara is an extremely talented wrestler who could do some amazing things in AEW. I have Guevara going over. (Prediction: Sammy Guevara)
Jeff Moss: Pre-show? A Cruiserwieght Champion on the PRE-SHOW? You said AEW was going to be DIFFERENT, Cody!! Just kidding of course, you gotta have a pre-show these days and as pre-show matches go, this one ain’t too shabby. Before this match was announced, I wasn’t super familiar with these guys (Though Ian informs me that Guevara is really popular on BTE), but some quick Youtube research shows that they can both go. With Guevara being a champion in AAA, logically he should take this. (Prediction: Sammy Guevara)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Sammy Guevara
21-Man Casino Battle Royale (Pre-Show)
Ian: The winner of this match will face the winner of Omega vs. Jericho to crown the first-ever AEW World Champion. This means the person who wins is someone AEW would have to be comfortable putting in a main event against a top star. Shawn Spears strikes me as someone who could be in that position. Either that or it will be somebody yet to be announced. (Prediction: Shawn Spears)
Andrew: I expect to see some surprises in this match come bell time and the biggest surprise in this contest is likely the winner but no big names come to mind at this time. Thus, with that being said, I actually have MJF winning it here. MJF is someone to keep an eye on and I can’t wait to see how he progresses under the AEW banner as he has the potential to become a top guy. (Prediction: MJF)
Jeff: First off, let me just say I LOVE this concept. It’s a great freshening-up of a classic concept, which is what I hope AEW brings to the table across the board. That said, it’s hard to pick a winner (especially since all the participants haven’t been announced yet). This match should be really fun, with lots of surprises and while my heart wants fellow Canadian Shawn Spears to be the winner, I’d say a more likely candidate is Joey Janela. Janela has the indie crew and vibe to make a good foil for Omega over the AEW title later. Spears should be one of the final men left standing though. I also would not say no to a Glacier victory. (Prediction: Joey Janela)
Aja Kong, Yuka Sakazaki & Emi Sakura vs. Hikaru Shida, Riho & Ryo Mizunami
Ian: Look for Aja Kong to be the star of this match. This match will look to showcase the Joshi style of wrestling but in the end, it will be Aja Kong who fans remember and who is given more high-profile matches moving forward. (Prediction: Aja Kong, Yuka Sakazaki & Emi Sakura)
Andrew: Out of all of the matches on this stacked card, I think this will be the bathroom match as I’m not sure how many fans know of these talents, which is fine considering their backgrounds. It’s a toss-up so I’m taking Aja Kong, Yuka Sakazaki & Emi Sakura. (Prediction: Aja Kong, Yuka Sakazaki & Emi Sakura)
Jeff: Much like the three-way dance on the card, this match is going to go a long way to defining what the women’s division in AEW looks like. While I’m not a huge fan of the fact both women’s matches are multi-person deals, this does give a lot of women the chance to show off what they can do on a large scale. I’d expect the winner to be Aja Kong’s team, with Kong going on to feud with Baker over a title in the future. (Prediction: Aja Kong, Yuka Sakazaki & Emi Sakura)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Aja Kong, Yuka Sakazaki & Emi Sakura
Britt Baker vs. Nyla Rose vs. Kylie Rae
Ian: This one is tough. Kylie Rae will be the wrestler pinned or submitted, it really comes down to whether Baker or Rose gets the win. Baker seems like she’ll be a featured performer but Rose feels like someone they don’t want to beat too early. I’ll go with Nyla Rose on this one but I wouldn’t be shocked if Baker pulls out the win either. (Prediction: Nyla Rose)
Andrew: This is one of the matches I am most looking forward to seeing as Baker and Rae are some of the best prospects in women’s wrestling today. I can easily see AEW building around Baker as their women’s champion thus I have her winning here. (Prediction: Britt Baker)
Jeff: Britt Baker seems like the centrepiece of the AEW women’s roster going forward, so since this is their first chance to shine I expect this match to be an awesome effort from all involved, but Baker takes it in the end. That sets her up as the woman to beat and gives strong motivation to the rest of the division. (Prediction: Britt Baker)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Britt Baker
Best Friends vs. Angelico & Jack Evans
Ian: Angelico and Jack Evans are extremely talented but I have to put my money on the Best Friends here based on how much time they’ve been given on BTE. Beyond their signing being announced, we haven’t seen much of Angelico and Evans but the Best Friends have been involved in an angle with the Bucks, blackmailing them to put them on the main show. (Prediction: Best Friends)
Andrew: This match isn’t getting a lot of buzz and it should as all four talents are very good performers. Based on their success in NJPW, I would have to favor Best Friends to get the win here but if these teams feud moving forward, I could see an upset. (Prediction: Best Friends)
Jeff: I love Angelico. I love Jack Evans. But Best Friends, they are not. I see the more established team winning this one, but long-term, everyone wins because it’ll establish two great tag teams for AEW to use going forward. Should be a high-flying fun match though! (Prediction: Best Friends)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Best Friends
SoCal Uncensored vs. Strong Hearts
Ian: SCU got the win over an OWE team when they visited China recently but I feel like the Strong Hearts could pull out the win in Las Vegas. AEW’s association with OWE was one of the first things announced by AEW. I feel as though having the OWE team lose on the first PPV won’t be something they decide to do. (Prediction: Strong Hearts)
Andrew: An interesting match that should be fun and the winner and loser here doesn’t really matter as I think it’s a one and done feud. I have SoCal Uncensored going over. (Prediction: SoCal Uncensored)
Jeff: This is going to be a really fun match, but in the end probably isn’t going to mean much, long term story wise. I see the Strong Hearts taking it here if only to further cement the AEW/OWE relationship. (Prediction: Strong Hearts)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Strong Hearts
The Young Bucks vs. The Lucha Bros
Ian: I’m expecting to be the only person on the panel to predict this but I think the Bucks are losing at Double or Nothing. The Bucks beat the Lucha Bros for the titles in Mexico so if they beat them again in Double or Nothing, where do you go from there? It would knock Pentagon and Fenix out of the title picture in the eyes of fans and I don’t think that’s where AEW wants them to be. (Prediction: The Lucha Bros)
Andrew: I have gone back and forth on this one as either team could win. Since the AAA Tag Team Titles are on the line and Lucha Bros have more of a connection with the promotion, I have them winning the titles. This should be the top feud in the tag team division once AEW stars airing on TNT. (Prediction: The Lucha Bros)
Jeff: It’s still super weird to me as a new-to-the-indies wresting watcher to see another promotions titles on the line at an AEW event, but in a way that brings it a pretty fresh new wrinkle, for me at least. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen the Lucha Bros work and I’m really looking forward to it. Picking a winner though, I’d say that the AEW Executives in matches at Double or Nothing are likely to take losses at this first event so that they don’t look like they are booking themselves to win. So the Lucha Bros will take the match and titles here. (Prediction: The Lucha Bros)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, The Lucha Bros
Adam “Hangman” Page vs. TBD
Ian: It has to be Moxley, right? Granted, he’s filming a movie right now and might not be available. AEW has said they have a replacement for PAC and it is evidently a good enough surprise that they are saving it for the show. It has to be someone big or it will receive a large groan in response. If it’s not Moxley, I don’t know who could fill that role. Assuming it’s Moxley, he should take the win. (Prediction: Jon Moxley)
Andrew: It will be interesting to see who they get to be Page’s opponent. While it would be a great surprise, I don’t see CM Punk or Dean Ambrose making an appearance on this show. Instead, and this is purely a guess, I think Joey Ryan is his opponent and goes over on Page. (Prediction: Joey Ryan)
Jeff: Lots of rumours about this match. With PAC off the card, they’ve apparently lined up a replacement worthy of a surprise entrance. Jon Moxley? Maybe. CM Punk? Highly unlikely. The Repo Man? My money’s ALWAYS on the Repo Man. In truth though, if the surprise opponent is big enough to be a surprise, they either a) have no one yet or b) have someone big enough that they should win. The Page/PAC plans are scuttled, so Page can take a loss here and not look too bad while they build something else for him to do. (Prediction: TBD)
CONSENSUS: Various (Jon Moxley – 1, Joey Ryan – 1, TBD – 1)
Cody vs. Dustin
Ian: This should be interesting as I’m expecting there to be a story told in the match which leads to future matches. It could lead to Cody and Dustin reforming their tag-team or it could lead to a rivalry between the two. Cody should win, however. In the eyes of the fans, both are babyfaces, though Cody walks the line a little sometimes. Either of the two turning full-blown heel throughout the course of the match is entirely possible. (Prediction: Cody)
Andrew: This should be the easiest pick on the card as there’s no reason to have Dustin go over here. Cody is the future while Dustin is the past. I also think Dustin will serve as an agent for the promotion going forward. (Prediction: Cody)
Jeff: I have been a life-long fan of the Rhodes family, so this is a bit of a dream match for me. I especially like that there’s no gimmicks, no personas or characters beyond just being Dustin and Cody. It’s a beautiful story too about the future of wrestling meeting the past, passing of the torches and all that. Dusty is going to look down on his one and be pretty happy, I think. As far as winner goes, I think Cody takes. Both Rhodes boys have decent arguments for a win, but I think it will be a long, back and forth match, with Cody taking the W. (Prediction: Cody)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Cody
Chris Jericho vs. Kenny Omega
Ian: Chris Jericho is going to be the top heel in the promotion for the near-future. He will beat Kenny Omega at Double or Nothing to even the series between the two. Since Jericho lost to Omega in the Tokyo Dome and will likely lose to Kazuchika Okada at Dominion next month, a big win would be key for him and I think he’s going to get it. (Prediction: Chris Jericho)
Andrew: I’m not sure if this match will live up to the expectations that fans have for it but at the end of the day, it’s going to be a great match. I do wonder what the finish will be as they can easily visit this feud down the line. I think it would be a mistake if Jericho won here as Omega should be the first AEW champion crowned. (Prediction: Kenny Omega)
Jeff: I don’t know how you pick a “Match of The Night” with a card this stacked, but I’d say this one makes it into the conversation in a walk. Omega is quickly becoming Jericho’s white whale, having lost to him in singles competition at WK12 and then in a 6-Man match on the Jericho Cruise. The winner of this match faces the Casino Battle Royal winner for the AEW Championship at a later date. Jericho is somehow at almost 50, doing the best work of his career, but Omega was born-ready to be AEW Champion. I see Kenny taking this one, winning the title later, or losing it via Jericho to continue their feud. (Prediction: Kenny Omega)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Kenny Omega
What do you think of the above AEW Double Or Nothing predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section below, and make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com on Saturday evening for live play-by-play results coverage of the show!
It looks like WWE gave some of the ladies time off this weekend to prepare for the battle they will be going through at tonight’s WWE Money In The Bank 2019 pay-per-view.
Dave Meltzer reported via the latest episode of his Wrestling Observer Radio program at F4WOnline.com that WWE gave the women competing in tonight’s Women’s Money In The Bank Ladder Match some time off from the scheduled RAW and SmackDown Live non-televised events this weekend.
The longtime editor of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter went on to mention that the expectation level for this year’s Women’s Money In The Bank match should not be held to the same standard as last year’s show. This is primarily due to the talent involved this year compared to last year, however the women scheduled for tonight’s match were given time off from WWE house shows this weekend specifically to practice for the big ladder match.
WWE Money In The Bank 2019 goes down from the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut this evening. The show will air live on pay-per-view, and will also stream live via the WWE Network. Make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com later this evening for live play-by-play results coverage of the show.
WWE Hall Of Famer “Stone Cold” Steve Austin took to social media this weekend to share video footage to coincide with a cool story he recently told on his Steve Austin Show podcast about Triple H saving him from a fan attack during a non-televised WWE live event several years ago.
“Triple H [is] a stand-up cat,” said Austin when beginning to tell the story behind the video. “He picked that dude up, slammed him and started punching his lights out. And he’s yelling to the security guard, ‘Get your ass in here!’ And the security guard didn’t know whether to sh*t or wind his watch. He was confused, you know? It happened so fast.”
From there, “The Texas Rattlesnake” went on to explain why he couldn’t join in on the beat down of the fan while everything was happening in the ring. He also spoke about a brief meeting he had with the fan backstage after the match.
“I couldn’t do anything, I couldn’t help beat the guy up, I’m the babyface,” said Austin. “But Triple H was watching my back, and he beat the snot out of that guy.”
Austin continued, “I went backstage and I had a couple of words with the guy. I didn’t take a cheap shot at him or nothing like that, but I had a little ‘Come-to-Jesus-meeting’ with him and let him know how I felt. But I always gave Triple H credit for doing that.”
Check out the video that goes with this story below courtesy of “Stone Cold” Steve Austin’s official Twitter page (@SteveAustinBSR).
Apparently Cross had been on standby per orders of WWE specifically in case something like this happened.
Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter gave the latest update on Bliss’ status on Sunday morning’s episode of Wrestling Observer Radio.
According to Meltzer, this is already at least the second time this year that Bliss has been on the sidelines with what is being described as “worrisome” concussion-related issues.
“Alexa Bliss from what I understand, the actual medical condition that WWE has released internally is ‘undisclosed’ … and ‘undisclosed’ has become a euphemism for concussion,” Meltzer said on Sunday’s episode at F4WOnline.com. “That doesn’t mean for sure that it’s a concussion, although it’s been reported by several people that it’s a concussion and certainly that would be the one you’d expect. And she did throw up after taking a bad bump, and that often also means concussion.”
“My career is just fine,” wrote Bliss via her official Twitter page (@AlexaBliss_WWE). “Thank you for the concern though.”
WWE Money In The Bank 2019 goes down from the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut tonight. The show will air live on pay-per-view, and will also stream live via the WWE Network. Join us here at SEScoops.com this evening for live play-by-play results coverage of the event.
WWE taped a few matches for an upcoming episode of NXT TV at Saturday night’s NXT Bel Air live event.
F4WOnline.com is reporting that three matches from Saturday night’s NXT Bel Air house show at the APG Federal Credit Union Arena in Bel Air, Maryland were taped for an episode of the weekly NXT TV show on the WWE Network.
The three matches taped last night for TV included a submission match pitting KUSHIDA against Drew Gulak, a tag-team bout that saw The Undisputed ERA take on the duo of Danny Burch and Oney Lorcan, as well as a women’s tag-team bout.
Below are spoiler results of the matches taped for NXT TV last night:
NXT TV SPOILER RESULTS (Taped On 5/18/2019)
KUSHIDA def. Drew Gulak in a Submission Match
The submission match between KUSHIDA and Gulak was said to be an entertaining contest, and a unique one, as there were none of the traditional near-falls and pin attempts in the match.
In the end, KUSHIDA picked up the win by submission when Gulak tapped out to the Hoverboard Lock.
Up next was a tag-team bout pitting The Undisputed ERA’s Roderick Strong and Kyle O’Reilly against Danny Burch and Oney Lorcan. Bobby Fish came out with Strong and O’Reilly with his arm in a sling. He shook his fellow Undisputed ERA members’ hands and headed to the back.
The match was given some time and the crowd was said to be into a lot of the action. Near the end of the match, Jaxson Ryder ran in to distract Strong, setting up the finish, which saw Lorcan roll O’Reilly up for the pin fall victory.
Winners: Danny Burch & Oney Lorcan
Marina Shafir & Jessamyn Duke vs. Io Shirai & Candice LaRae ended in a No Contest
In the third match taped for television, Ronda Rousey’s Four Horsewomen members Marina Shafir and Jessamyn Duke took on Io Shirai and Candice LaRae in women’s tag-team action.
This one was kept pretty short and basic. During the match, NXT Women’s Champion Shayna Baszler came out. “The Queen of Spades” simply stood at the top of the entrance ramp and watched the match until getting involved in the finish.
At the end of the contest, Shirai was about to hit her moonsault on Duke for what felt like the finish, until Baszler pulled Duke out of the ring. Shirai then hit her moonsault on Baszler instead.
This led to a big brawl with all five ladies going at it while several NXT officials tried to break things up. Baszler and Shirai ended up battling in the crowd, while LaRae brawled with Duke and Shafir.
Winners: No Contest
After these three matches were taped, the NXT Bel Air main event took place. The match saw Velveteen Dream retain his NXT North American Championship in an excellent Triple-Threat Match that included Matt Riddle and Adam Cole.
A WWE Performance Center Combine special is scheduled to premiere on the WWE Network next weekend.
The updated WWE Network schedule for next week lists the special beginning at noon Eastern Time on Sunday, May 26th. It’s worth noting that no other programming is listed on the scheduled until a new episode of the WWE original documentary series, “WWE Untold,” premieres at 8pm Eastern Time. According to F4WOnline.com, the special could potentially be eight hours long.
The official description for the special reads: “NXT Superstars put their strength, speed and athleticism to the test in a battery of competitive events.”
The new episode of WWE Untold that premieres the same night focuses on Eric Bischoff’s planned relaunch of WCW from 2001 and their “Big Bang” pay-per-view that never came to fruition. The episode is listed at 30 minutes long.
The official description for the new WWE Untold special reads: “Eric Bischoff, Booker T and more tell the true story of how WCW almost relaunched with a ‘big bang’ in 2001.”
Sign up to the WWE Network today to watch the new WWE Performance Center Combine and WWE Untold specials next weekend. You can subscribe by visiting WWENetwork.com.
WWE’s return to Saudi Arabia next month for WWE Super Show-Down 2019 now has a third high-profile singles match.
On Saturday afternoon, WWE announced via their official website and various social media channels that Braun Strowman vs. Bobby Lashley has been added to the advertised lineup for the upcoming WWE Super Show-Down event in Saudi Arabia.
Previously announced for WWE Super Show-Down 2019 is a 50-man Battle Royal, the first-ever one-on-one meeting between WWE Hall Of Famer Bill Goldberg and WWE legend The Undertaker, as well as a one-on-one showdown between longtime veteran WWE rivals, Triple H and Randy Orton.
WWE.com released the following announcement on their official WWE Super Show-Down page today regarding the addition of the Strowman-Lashley bout to the 6/7 live WWE Network special from King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Braun Strowman vs. Bobby Lashley
In what is sure to be a massive collision, “The Monster Among Men” Braun Strowman will go one-on-one against “The All Mighty” Bobby Lashley at WWE Super ShowDown.
The two explosive Superstars each boast their own unique form of ruthless aggression that could cause an international incident of pain and destruction when all is said and done. Can the ring possibly contain them? Find out at WWE Super ShowDown.
The Saudi General Sports Authority will host WWE Super ShowDown when it comes to the WWE Universe from the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Tune in to WWE Super ShowDown, streaming live on the award-winning WWE Network at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT. Regional broadcast information forthcoming.
While on the 2019 WWE European Tour, Becky Lynch spoke with all kinds of international media. Among her media obligations during the tour, “Becky 2 Belts” spoke with a couple of media members in a scrum while overseas.
The reigning RAW and SmackDown Women’s Champion was asked during the media scrum earlier this week if she feels she is the true “Face of WWE” now that she is the only Superstar on the roster to simultaneously hold two World Championships.
Never one to lack confidence, Lynch explained why she is, in fact, “The Man” in WWE right now, not her boyfriend and WWE Universal Champion Seth Rollins.
“Absolutely, absolutely, I’m running two shows,” Lynch said during the interview. “Freakin’ A.J. Styles and Seth Rollins can argue about the house that A.J. built or this is freakin’ Monday Night Rollins. No, no, no,” she added. “There’s only one person in the company with two belts. I’m running the show.”
As she is currently sitting on top of the RAW and SmackDown women’s singles divisions, Lynch was asked who she would entertain joining forces with if she were to make a run for the WWE Women’s Tag-Team Championships.
While she acknowledged that one year ago her answer would have been an easy one, Charlotte Flair, the Irish WWE mega-star went on to name a different WWE Superstar.
“Oh! Good question,” said Lynch. “If you asked me a year ago, I would have said Charlotte, but I don’t know. Things have gone way too sour at this stage. Who would I want?”
Lynch continued, revealing that if she were to make a run in the WWE Women’s tag-team division, it would be alongside Naomi.
“I guess you gotta go with who you think you can trust the most and I think it’s gotta be Naomi,” said Lynch. “Yeah, I think it’s gotta be Naomi.”
She even offered a quick idea for a potential team name for the duo.
“Fire and Glow,” Lynch said. “Or something like that.”
WWE Money In The Bank 2019 goes down from the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut on Sunday, May 19th. The show airs live via the WWE Network and on pay-per-view. Make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com on 5/19 for live WWE Money In The Bank results coverage.
Coming off of their 2019 European Tour, the RAW and SmackDown Live brands reunite this Sunday for the joint-brand WWE Money In The Bank pay-per-view from the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut. The show marks the tenth event under the Money In The Bank chronology.
The show will air live via pay-per-view and on the WWE Network on Sunday evening, with a one-hour Kickoff Show pre-show at 6pm EST., leading into the main card at 7pm EST.
WWE Money In The Bank will feature the traditional Men’s and Women’s Ladder Matches, with the winners earning the briefcase and a shot at the world title at a time and place of their choosing. Also on the PPV this Sunday night is a highly-anticipated Steel Cage Match, a WWE Universal Championship clash between Seth Rollins and A.J. Styles that is expected to be a Match of the Year candidate, as well as a heated WWE Championship showdown between Kofi Kingston and Kevin Owens.
Additionally, “The Man” will be competing twice, as Becky Lynch defends her RAW and SmackDown Women’s Championships in separate singles matches on the card.
SEScoops.com writers Ian Carey, Jeff Moss and Andrew Ravens have prepared their predictions for each of the matches scheduled for Sunday night’s big event. Without further adieu, here are the SEScoops.com staff predictions for WWE Money In The Bank 2019.
Daniel Bryan & Rowan vs. The Usos (SmackDown Tag Titles)
Ian Carey: If you are confused as to why the RAW tag-team of the Usos is facing the Smackdown tag team champions in a non-title match, I can help. You see, the Usos were drafted to RAW but since Smackdown is their cousin Roman Reigns’ yard, he told them they can just come by anytime they want. It’s not even clear if the Usos count towards the Wild Card rule or if they simply just have their own rules regarding when they can appear on Smackdown. Regardless, they are taking on the Planet’s tag team champions in a non-title match in Hartford. That the match is non-title leads me to believe the Usos will win. (Prediction: The Usos)
Jeff Moss: Call me crazy on this one, but since the Usos aren’t on Smackdown, it would be a little strange to have them walk away with the titles. Should be a fun match, but Bryan and Rowan walk away winners. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan & Rowan)
Andrew Ravens: Another example of this having no logic behind it other than these guys will have a good match. For a RAW tag team to be booked in a SmackDown title match makes no sense. The Usos won’t win the titles because then WWE would actually have to explain a storyline. Also, Bryan and Rowan had just won the titles and already beat The Usos. It’s a shame that Bryan goes from one of the WrestleMania main events to working a pre-show contest. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan & Rowan)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Daniel Bryan & Rowan
Tony Nese vs. Ariya Daivari (WWE Cruiserweight Title)
Ian: It feels too early still for Tony Nese to lose the title, though this is a common feeling regarding champions who won their titles at Mania. The cruiserweight division feels pretty stale since it lost Ali and Buddy Murphy. At least WWE is making good use of Murphy on Smackdown though….oh, wait. (Prediction: Tony Nese)
Jeff: I won’t lie: I haven’t watched 205 Live in weeks. That said, Tony Nese is crazy ripped and should have no trouble retaining in this sure-to-be-kickoff-match. (Prediction: Tony Nese)
Andrew: Nese just won the title one month ago at WrestleMania and he needs a long reign as champion to be made a real name in the division. Daivari is talented but I’m surprised that this wasn’t moved to the pre-show. (Prediction: Tony Nese)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Tony Nese
Samoa Joe vs. Rey Mysterio (WWE U.S. Title)
Ian: The difference between Joe vs Rey at Mania and Joe vs Rey at MITB will be Rey’s son Dominic. On Smackdown building up to this match, Dominic has played a pivotal role. It seems quite possible that Dominic will factor into the match result here, allowing his father to pick up the win and earn the United States title in the process. (Prediction: Rey Mysterio)
Jeff: Joe destroyed Rey at Wrestlemania, so I’m betting he’s expecting the same here. Rey should win this with a surprise quickness (his forte) and leave a shocked Joe ready to start stalking Domminick the way he did Wendy. (Prediction: Rey Mysterio)
Andrew: I expect this match to be longer than their WrestleMania match and honestly, this program has been interesting as a slow build. That doesn’t excuse the poor execution of how WWE has built this match. No reason to have Rey win though. (Prediction: Samoa Joe)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Rey Mysterio
Kofi Kingston vs. Kevin Owens (WWE Title)
Ian: I’m picking Kofi Kingston to pick up the win here. The question regarding Kingston’s title run is how long of a reign they will give him. Working against Kofi is that Roman Reigns is now on Smackdown. Still, it seems unlikely they would cut-off Kingston’s title reign this quickly. I’m predicting he gets past Owens on Sunday and holds the title until about SummerSlam. (Prediction: Kofi Kingston)
Jeff: I’m quite digging “Serious” Kofi on Smackdown these days, but Kevin Owens is the best and most ruthless heel in the company, Non-Chiampa Division. Or at least he should be. I expect Kofi to retain the title here, but Owens will win the match. Either by provoking New Day into a DQ or via some other skullduggery, possibly involving Sami Zayn. This feud ain’t over yet, as they say. (Prediction: Kevin Owens via DQ)
Andrew: While it wouldn’t be the best move, I can’t say that I would be shocked to see Owens win the title here. Kingston needs a win over someone like Owens to get over as a main event player in the eyes of the casual fan. He’s been pushed as a comedy figure for so long now that fans need to be convinced to take him seriously. That starts here and with a win over Owens. (Prediction: Kofi Kingston)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Kofi Kingston
The Miz vs. Shane McMahon (Steel Cage Match)
Ian: I will freely admit that I’ve been fast-forwarding this segment every week. Shane will win because he lost at WrestleMania and a big spot off the top of the cage will take place. Hopefully this match will run for an hour between 9-10PM so everyone can switch to Game of Thrones. (Prediction: Shane McMahon)
Jeff: All I can hope for this match is that its a) short, and b) the end of the is feud. As much as I love cage matches, a Shane McMahon cage match isn’t really something I’m excited to see in 2019. Maybe the B Team gets involved, maybe they don’t, it doesn’t matter. I just want it to be over so Miz can move onto a program with someone deserving. (Prediction: The Miz)
Andrew: This should be the final match in this program and what an odd match to have them in. Granted, they just had a street fight at WrestleMania so that gimmick was not an option. But for McMahon, he’s known as a brawler and does crazy spots. While he’ll do a crazy spot in this match off the top of the cage, I think having a cage match will hurt the contest. Miz should and will likely go over as this feud finally comes to an end. (Prediction: The Miz)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, The Miz
Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte Flair (SmackDown Women’s Title)
Ian: One idea is that Charlotte will win the title under dubious circumstances. Perhaps Lynch will be too badly beat up from her match with Lacey Evans. Or perhaps Lynch will be too badly beat up after her match with Charlotte that the women’s MITB match winner cashes in. There are numerous possible scenarios where Lynch loses at least one title at Money in the Bank but I honestly don’t think any of them will come to pass. Lynch wins here too. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)
Jeff: Now this one I believe will actually be the end of Becky Two Belts. The whole dominant Champion thing hasn’t worked out the way it should have and it would be better for Becky to have on title to focus on. Put the belt back on Charlotte (groan) perhaps via Lacey interference. This will give Becky a singular focus and the Smackdown women’s division a reason to exist. (Prediction: Charlotte Flair)
Andrew: While it was fun to have Lynch be both champions, it’s time that she focuses on one division and brand going forward. Most people including me are over this feud that needs to wrap up. With Flair being her biggest challenger and Lynch working two matches, WWE has an easy out to have Lynch drop the title without losing momentum. (Prediction: Charlotte Flair)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Charlotte Flair
Roman Reigns vs. Elias
Ian: Roman Reigns will win this match. I’m not sure what else could possibly be said here. The real question might be how long is it until Roman Reigns is in the title picture on Smackdown. Reigns is the top star on the brand but he’ll have to be kept away from Kofi if they don’t want the fans to turn on him again. It’s likely Reigns will exist in his own little universe on Smackdown until there is a heel champion. That means Reigns will just roll through guys like Elias for the next several months. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)
Jeff: Roman Reigns is a golden god. We all know this, but Elias is a current favourite of those that make the decisions. He’s a great heel and destined for big things, and a win of Roman here would be a big feather in his cap, since he usually gets murked in this situations. I expect Elias to win, but through some kind of cheating that lets Roman continue looking Strong, as he does. (Prediction: Elias)
Andrew: I hope this is a one and done match in this program as Reigns feels like he should be feuding with a bigger name than Elias. Heck, a feud with Shane McMahon would be more interesting due to the McMahon connection. That might be something that they do going into SummerSlam. Reigns goes over. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Roman Reigns
Women’s Money In The Bank Ladder Match
Ian: The winner of this match will very likely be the wrestler to take one of Becky’s 2 belts away from her. This means someone in this match is likely turning heel sooner rather than later. 7 of the 8 wrestlers in the match are babyfaces, with only Mandy Rose serving as a heel. That could mean Rose is winning the match but likely it means someone else is turning heel. I believe that person will be Natalya. (Prediction: Natalya)
Jeff: They added her last minute, but to me the most fun person to have the case would be Nikki Cross. Lean in hard on her Chaotic Tasmanian Devil side and let her have a long run with the case, popping up at random times and leaving whoever has the title on edge. But let’s be honest, it’ll probably be Bailey. I’m still pulling for Nikki though. (Prediction: Nikki Cross)
Andrew: This one is a toss-up and honestly a match that I have no interest in seeing as WWE didn’t do a good job of making me emotionally interested. Based on the betting odds, Rose is the favorite and I can see that. However, I don’t see her having a title reign. (Prediction: Mandy Rose)
CONSENSUS: None (Natalya, Cross & Rose each receive 1 pick)
Men’s Money In The Bank Ladder Match
Ian: It used to be whoever won this match became a future World Champion. That’s not the case anymore, however. Just ask Damien Sandow or Mr. Kennedy. In this case, however, I believe the winner of this match will eventually become the man to dethrone Kofi Kingston. For that reason, I’m picking Randy Orton, leading to a renewal of their rivalry. (Prediction: Randy Orton)
Jeff: With Kofi (Presumably) retaining his title, I’d love to see the briefcase go to Sami Zayn. Zayn’s “I Hate You All” attitude lately hasn’t always been great, but it would be a cool twist to the character for him to hate us, hate WWE, but also have the keys to the kingdom so to speak. Plus it would be a cool wrinkle in the Zayn/Owens relationship. (Prediction: Sami Zayn)
Andrew: The two standouts here are McIntyre and Andrade for me as they have been both pushed heavily for months. They would also serve as worthy title challengers on their respective brands. I don’t think Andrade is there yet but McIntyre being that guy is something that is more clear. McIntyre wins and goes onto SummerSlam in the main event against Seth Rollins. (Prediction: Drew McIntyre)
CONSENSUS: None (Orton, Zayn & McIntyre each receive 1 pick)
Seth Rollins vs. A.J. Styles (WWE Universal Title)
Ian: I’m taking Seth Rollins in this match and I believe it will eventually lead to an AJ Styles heel turn. Rollins beat Lesnar clean at Mania, he’s not going to turn around lose to Styles here. I bet Rollins wins clear, leading Styles to reevaluate his babyface tendencies. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)
Jeff: I know they are making a big deal of this (alleged) first time ever matchup between two of the best in the company, but I’ll be honest: AJ Styles hasn’t had a match that blew me away in a long time. If it’s not too over booked, it should be a good back and forth bout, but Seth keeps his Red band-aid. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)
Andrew: This should be one of the best matches of the night but I don’t think it’s time for WWE to have Rollins drop the strap to Styles. Although logic is not what WWE is known for, to have Rollins win the title from Brock Lesnar just one month ago, he needs a long title reign but working with Styles will get him over even more with fans as a worthy contender. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Seth Rollins
Becky Lynch vs. Lacey Evans (RAW Women’s Title)
Ian: Becky Lynch could have to defend a title 3x at Money in the Bank: against Lacey, Charlotte, and potentially whoever wins the women’s MITB match. Of the 3 possible wrestlers who could defeat Lynch on Sunday, Lacey should be considered the least likely. WWE may have big plans for Lacey but that aren’t going to pull the trigger on those this weekend. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)
Jeff: Here’s how this match should go down: Entrances. Bell. Becky destroyes Evans. Bell. Where’s Charlotte? I dunno if it’s going to be that simple, but it should be given how much (frankly) better Becky is than Lacey Evans. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)
Andrew: This match should be under five minutes long. Evans is still very green and with Lynch working two matches in one night, she should dominate Evans, who is clearly not ready for this spot or even the main roster yet thus far in her career. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Becky Lynch
What do the experts think is going to happen on Sunday? Check out the official WWE Money In The Bank betting odds. What do you think of the above WWE Money In The Bank predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section below, and make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com on Sunday evening for live play-by-play results coverage of the show!
After wrapping up her schedule for the 2019 WWE European Tour at the WWE live event in Cardiff, Wales on Saturday, Becky Lynch spoke with the WWE website team for an exclusive interview.
In the interview taped backstage at the Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff, Wales after Saturday’s RAW non-televised live event, “The Man” spoke about her experience working in the European market as a double-champion in WWE.
“It’s been an incredible European tour,” said Lynch. “It’s an experience that I can’t even describe,” she added, before turning her attention to Sunday night’s WWE Money In The Bank pay-per-view.
“But it’s not over,” said Lynch. “Because [Saturday] I’ll fly back to America [and] at Money In The Bank I’m defending both my titles.”
The RAW and SmackDown Women’s Champion kept busy during the tour, defending her RAW and SmackDown Women’s Championship in singles and triple-threat matches before heading into Sunday night’s WWE Money In The Bank pay-per-view, where she will compete in two matches in the same night.
“I’m slapping the head off of them and I’m walking out of Money In The Bank still ‘Becky-2-Belts,'” Lynch said of her title defenses against Evans and Flair this Sunday night.
For more on Becky Lynch’s two title defenses against “McMahon’s Twins” at WWE Money In The Bank, check out the latest edition of WWE Now, below.
In the latest episode of the WWE digital series, Cathy Kelley looks at “The Man” taking on two opponents at the WWE PPV event at the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut this Sunday night.
WWE kicks off the new year for their NXT brand on Saturday evening at the Talking Stick Resort Arena in Arizona with their NXT TakeOver: Phoenix event. It will mark the first “TakeOver” special of 2019 for the NXT brand, and will be the 33rd overall show in the NXT TakeOver chronology.
The show will air live on the WWE Network as part of WWE Royal Rumble 2019 Weekend featuring a five-match card, with four world championships up for grabs. Headlining the card will be Tommaso Ciampa vs. Aleister Black for the NXT World Championship, while Shayna Baszler will defend the NXT Women’s Championship against Bianca Belair in the co-main event.
Also on Saturday’s card will be Matt Riddle vs. Kassius Ohno, Ricochet vs. Johnny Gargano for the NXT North American Championship and The Undisputed ERA (Kyle O’Reilly & Roderick Strong) vs. War Raiders (Hanson & Rowe) for the NXT Tag-Team Championships.
SEScoops.com writers Andrew Ravens, Ian Carey and Jeff Moss have prepared their predictions for each of the matches scheduled for Saturday’s big event. Without further adieu, here are the SEScoops.com staff predictions for NXT TakeOver: Phoenix 2019.
Matt Riddle vs. Kassius Ohno
Andrew Ravens: Yes, WWE is booking another match between these two stars and I can’t say that I’m complaining about. Obviously, it would be nice to see Riddle move onto his next program and work with someone else. It appears that WWE management sees something bigger for him in terms of long term storytelling and not just rushing him to the NXT Title right away. Riddle wins with ease. (Prediction: Matt Riddle)
Ian Carey: Last Takeover, Riddle defeated Ohno in an unadvertised match in mere seconds. Ohno should fair a little better this time out but it still seems likely Riddle walks away with his second straight victory on a Takeover show…bro. It’s just too early to book Riddle to lose. (Prediction: Matt Riddle)
Jeff Moss: “What? Why are we doing this again?” – Me, every time a Kassius Ohno match begins. Look, I get it; Ohno exists at this point to get new talent accustomed to the NXT way, a spot previously held by Tyler Breeze (who I’d much rather see back in NXT doing just that, to be honest). I keep hearing about how Matt Riddle is this amazing MMA performer turned wrestler, and what I’ve seen of him has been pretty good (minus his laughable entrance music) so he should probably be able to put the Ghost of Ohno behind him pretty quickly, no? All I can say beyond that is I hope this is the last time these guys square off for a while, Bro. (Prediction: Matt Riddle)
CONSENSUS: 3-0 (Bro), MATT RIDDLE
Ricochet vs. Johnny Gargano (NXT North American Title)
Andrew: Unless they have something bigger in place, Gargano shouldn’t win the title here. In fact, it helps to keep the title on the champion as he’s not going to be in the NXT Title picture so why not give him a secondary title until that time comes. Personally, seeing a pairing as heels with Tommaso Ciampa and Gargano would be a lot of fun whether WWE officials end up doing so. Either way, this should be a stellar match that could be a candidate for match of the night. (Prediction: Ricochet)
Ian: This will be the match where Johnny Gargano really shows how dark he can go. For Gargano to solidify his spot as “Johnny Takeover”, he’ll need to show fans what his heel persona is all about in this match. With that being said, I believe Ricochet is going to take the win here. Gargano may have to demonstrate how vicious he can be after the match is over. (Prediction: Ricochet)
Jeff: Match of the night? Yeah, match of the night. Both of these guys are destined to be superstars, so I’m pretty hyped to see them going head to head. The North American Title needs a bit of a boost and I’m going to go out on a limb here and say that Gargano having it would be that boost. Presuming Ciampa retains his NXT Title, this could be the beginning of building Heel #DIY as a threat to the Undisputed Era’s status as the dominant faction in NXT. Riccochet’s in a great spot as he could have a match with a broom handle at this point and earn 5 stars. He can be a main-event player without a title. (Prediction: Johnny Gargano)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, RICOCHET
The Undisputed ERA vs. War Raiders (NXT Tag Titles)
Andrew: This one is going to be a lot of fun as they have a lot of dynamics that can be used to tell a story that is sure to be very entertaining and one that I’m personally looking forward to seeing. I’m actually taking The War Raiders to go over here as I see it being the only title change on this card and one that makes sense. Undisputed Era has held the titles for long enough, and some could even say that it’s time for them to move on from NXT to the main roster although I wouldn’t have confidence in how they would be booked on RAW or SmackDown Live. (Prediction: War Raiders)
Ian: The War Raiders should leave Phoenix with the NXT tag titles. They have been built up as unstoppable on NXT programming and it seems too soon to have them come up short, even if the Undisputed Era pulls out their usual tricks and chicanery. (Prediction: War Raiders)
Jeff: In my mind I’m weaving an elaborate fantasy booking that includes the NXT, North American and yes Tag Championships all being used to unseat the Undisputed Era as the top faction in NXT. For that to work, the War Raiders need to get the belts here. Yes, my prediction is entirely based on my own head canon. I’m excited to see the match, I love smaller, technical guys going up against monsters, but I’d like to see some more fluidity in the Tag scene in NXT. While it’s better than RAW’s (what isn’t?) Division, it could use some new blood and some new challengers and champions. Especially heading into WrestleMania Season. (Prediction: War Raiders)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, WAR RAIDERS
Shayna Baszler vs. Bianca Belair (NXT Women’s Title)
Andrew: As much fun as Belair has been on WWE NXT TV as of late, I don’t see how it’s her time to be champion or even why they would book a title change here as Baszler is one of the more interesting characters that NXT has to offer right now. Unless they plan to call her up to the main roster in the near future, WWE should keep the title on the champion.(Prediction: Shayna Baszler)
Ian: Either Baszler is losing the NXT Women’s Championship Saturday night or Bianca Belair is going to pick up her first loss in NXT. This match might come down to how quickly WWE wants one or both of these Superstars on the main roster after WrestleMania. I just don’t see Baszler losing the title again so soon after regaining it, however, so I’m picking her in this tilt. (Prediction: Shayna Baszler)
Jeff: Look, I like Bianca Belair. She’s my favorite hair—based wrestler right now for sure. She’s had a dominant run in NXT, but she’s not at Shayna Baszler’s level or able to combat her particular brand of assholery. Baszler is the best heel in the company, non Ciampa Division and while I’d expect this to be competitive, the champion will retain and make a star out of Belair. Unless WWE has plans to pull the Horsewomen trigger soon (note to WWE: DO NOT DO THIS) Baszler’s position as Champion is secure and I can only see this match end with Belair being de(clap)fea(clap)ted(clap), but it will be a great match. (Prediction: Shayna Baszler)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, SHAYNA BASZLER
Tommaso Ciampa vs. Aleister Black (NXT World Title)
Andrew: I thoroughly enjoyed Black’s reign as champion but the job that Ciampa has done for the last several months on TV as a heel has been one of the impactful runs in quite some time. I believe that WWE plans to keep the title on Ciampa for bit more time and in fact, think that Matt Riddle will be the one to dethrone him as the top champion in NXT. Until that time, don’t fix something that isn’t broken. (Prediction: Tommaso Ciampa)
Ian: Tommaso Ciampa has been arguably the most unique NXT Champion in history but I’m predicting his reign comes to an end Saturday night. Aleister Black will win the belt for a second time, leading both Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano to wonder what led to both of them picking up losses. Perhaps they need to combine their efforts and take over the whole brand. (Prediction: Aleister Black)
Jeff: Even though I’m glad we live in the “no Rematch Clause” era of WWE, if there’s one pairing that I’ll never get tired of it’s these two. Both are ring psychologists as well as heavy-hitting fans of pure violence. Guys like Ciampa and Black are the reason I started watching wrestling in the first place and I’m always excited to see them lock up. That said, this should be the last confrontation between these two. Let Black ascend to the main roster in the Rumble and create an opening for what we really need to see: Ciampa Vs Velveteen Dream II at the Wrestlemania-adjacent Takeover. (Prediction: Tommaso Ciampa)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, TOMMASO CIAMPA
For more news heading into NXT TakeOver: Phoenix, check out the Triple H’s complete pre-show media call. What do you think of the above NXT TakeOver: Phoenix predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section below, and make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com on Saturday for live play-by-play results coverage of the show!
WWE kicks off their first pay-per-view weekend of 2019 and begin the road to WrestleMania 35, as they present their always highly-anticipated WWE Royal Rumble event on Sunday evening.
Following Saturday night’s NXT TakeOver: Phoenix 2019 special at the Talking Stick Resort Arena, WWE will hold their annual Royal Rumble show at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. The show will feature the Men’s and Women’s Royal Rumble matches, multiple world championship bouts and more.
In the co-main events of the evening, Brock Lesnar will defend his WWE Universal Championship against the first man to ever hold the title, Finn Balor, while Daniel Bryan will put his WWE Championship on-the-line against former champion A.J. Styles. Also on the card is Ronda Rousey vs. Sasha Banks for the RAW Women’s Championship, Asuka vs. Becky Lynch for the SmackDown Women’s Championship and The Bar vs. Shane McMahon & The Miz for the SmackDown Tag-Team Championships.
In Kickoff Show matches on the live pre-show on the WWE Network, Buddy Murphy will defend his WWE Cruiserweight Championship against Hideo Itami, Akira Tozawa and Kalisto in a Fatal-4-Way, while Rusev and Shinsuke Nakamura will do battle with the WWE United States Championship up for grabs.
SEScoops.com writers Andrew Ravens, Ian Carey and Jeff Moss have prepared their predictions for each of the matches scheduled for Sunday’s big event. Without further adieu, here are the SEScoops.com staff predictions for WWE Royal Rumble 2019.
Rusev vs. Shinsuke Nakamura (WWE U.S. Title)
Andrew Ravens: This is a real pick em here as either guy can win this match and title. Yes, Rusev just won the title last month but there wasn’t much build-up to that title change, and with it being on Christmas night when it aired, WWE could’ve done it to send the fans home happy on a holiday. Since then, WWE hasn’t done much with either guy. I have Nakamura regaining the strap back as Lana gets involved. (Prediction: Shinsuke Nakamura)
Ian Carey: What a difference a year makes. Nakamura won last year’s Rumble, leading many to believe he was finally to become the main eventer everyone was hoping he would be positioned as. Now, a year later, he’s challenging for the US title he just lost on the Royal Rumble pre-show. Not only that, he’s probably going to lose. (Prediction: Rusev)
Jeff Moss: Also in the “too good for us all” category is Rusev. Dear, sweet, handsome Rusev. He should be a contender for the WWE Championship, but it’s still nice to see him getting some gold. I can’t see him losing it back to Shinsuke here, even though (allegedly) Shinsuke Nakamura still works for WWE. Wouldn’t it be fun to see HIM vs Brock Lesnar for the Universal strap? Anyways, enough fantasy booking, Rusev wins and the few people in attendance for the kickoff show rejoice. (Prediction: Rusev)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, RUSEV
Buddy Murphy vs. Akira Tozawa vs. Kalisto vs. Hideo Itami (WWE Cruiserweight Title)
Andrew: This should be one heck of a contest with a ton of great action that could be one of the better matches of the night. Although there are other contenders in this match, other than Itami, there’s no one that stands out as a threat. I think Murphy steals one to retain the title. (Prediction: Buddy Murphy)
Ian: Sunday is the night Hideo Itami wins his first championship in WWE since signing with the company in 2014. Itami is someone who, for whatever reason, has not reached his potential in the company. That could change if he wins the cruiserweight title on Sunday. The match being on the pre-show doesn’t lend well to a title change but that’s still what I think happens here. (Prediction: Hideo Itami)
Jeff: This match is too good for kickoff. It’s too good for all of us. This is going to be a high-flying barnburner, but since we aren’t taking the cruiserweight division seriously yet (and why would they? It’s not like they have time to fill on RAW or anything) not many people are going to get to see it. If the powers that be want to move to a more story-driven 205 Live, then it’d be cool to put the belt on Hideo Itami. It freshens things up, and Murphy/Itami leading up to WrestleMania would be fantastic! (Prediction: Hideo Itami)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, HIDEO ITAMI
The Bar vs. The Miz & Shane McMahon (SmackDown Tag Titles)
Andrew: This will be an interesting match and not for the match quality but rather the finish of the match with the outcome. Yes, The Bar should retain the straps here, but it’s the story that WWE wants to tell. Do they do the turn of McMahon on Miz or vise versa or do they continue them being partners with them winning the titles? I have Shane and Miz having a brief title run. (Prediction: Shane McMahon & The Miz)
Ian: I don’t want this to happen but Shane and the Miz are going to win the tag titles on Sunday. Their tag team has to be going somewhere otherwise why is Shane doing it? It seems likely they win the tag belts and then break into a rivalry sometime between now and WrestleMania. (Prediction: Shane McMahon & The Miz)
Jeff: Can we swap this with one of the kickoff matches, please? (Sigh), all right, fine. When Shane won the coveted and totally not made up title of BEST WRESTLER IN THE WORLD at an event no one wants to admit happened, we were told “hold on, it’s going to play into a larger heel story.” I don’t know what happened between now and then, but it still literally feels like Shane said “Dad, can I have that?” And Vince said “Which one are you again? Paul, is it?” So, it wouldn’t surprise me if the tag belts changed hands here. But seriously, if ever there was a match made for the Kickoff show… (Prediction: The Miz & Shane McMahon)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, THE MIZ & SHANE MCMAHON
Asuka vs. Becky Lynch (SmackDown Women’s Title)
Andrew: Although Becky Lynch is the hottest star in the entire company right now, I don’t see her winning the title back just after a month after dropping it. The way that WWE does the finish and how to protect Lynch will be the true story of this match. Obviously, Lynch will have a clear plan going into WrestleMania, but for Asuka, it will be interesting to see how it plays out. (Prediction: Asuka)
Ian: This is the one match where they could play around with things a bit. Somebody, I.E. Ronda or Charlotte, could cost Lynch the match here, causing her to go after Rousey and the Raw title. More likely, however, is that Lynch and Rousey each win their respective title matches, Flair wins the Rumble, and somehow we have a triple threat between them at WrestleMania. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)
Jeff: Oddly enough, both Women’s Title matches on this show centers around the rumored departure of Ronda Rousey after WrestleMania. It affects this match, because if Becky is going to unseat Ronda at WrestleMania and send her off into the sunset, then she probably won’t win here. It’d be a strange move to unify the Women’s titles at this juncture. That said, an Auska/Charlotte Flair re-match at WrestleMania would also be pretty darn good, so I’m going to lay my bets on Auska retaining here. Perhaps Ronda interferes? Maybe her Horsewomen show up? Lots of possibilities! (Prediction: Auska)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, ASUKA
Ronda Rousey vs. Sasha Banks (RAW Women’s Title)
Andrew: Obviously, Rousey is going to retain her title here, and for good reason as though Banks will give her the best match thus far in her WWE career if given enough time, Banks has been pushed as a quick challenger and not someone that WWE has built up over time in recent memory. A fun match but Rousey gets it done. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
Ian: Sasha Banks fans are likely not holding onto too much hope that she’ll win the title here. They likely are just hoping Banks does something to get herself noticed in the division. Tucked away in an on-again off-again friendship and tag-team with Bayley, it feels that Banks has gotten lost in the shuffle when really she should be in the mix at the top of the women’s wrestling pecking order. Rousey takes this match, however. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
Jeff: Like in the SmackDown Women’s Championships match, if Ronda/Becky is the money match for WrestleMania (spoiler: It is) then Ronda holds onto the belt here. What I’d really like to see though is a longer, more competitive match and if there’s anyone who can pull that out of Rousey, it’s Sasha Banks. I want this match to end with everyone saying “Ronda still has the title, but MAN! I forgot how GOOD Sasha Banks is!!” Because frankly, she really, really is that good. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, RONDA ROUSEY
2019 Women’s Royal Rumble Match
Andrew: There are some other names in this match that no doubt have the potential to win it but to me, one name sticks out, and that’s Charlotte Flair. There have been rumors about her being involved in the WrestleMania 35 main event. I believe this and thus, Flair puts on a classic performance to add to her legacy. (Prediction: Charlotte Flair)
Ian: There is only one woman in this match who could possibly headline WrestleMania and her name is Charlotte Flair. There are 3 women in WWE above everyone else right now, Lynch, Flair and Rousey. With Rousey and Lynch each having other matches on the show, they likely aren’t in the Royal Rumble match itself, despite a few spots being open. It’s either Flair wins, Alexa Bliss pulls off an upset, or one of Lynch or Rousey makes a surprise appearance in the Rumble and wins it. My money is on Flair, however. (Prediction: Charlotte Flair)
Jeff: This one’s a tough pick. There are a number of women on both RAW and Smackdown who are ready to take that next step and bring their careers up a notch. However, With Charlotte Flair in the mix, it’s hard not to immediately lean that way. WWE loves to bait ‘n switch us with stuff like that though, so Ember Moon, Nia Jax or even a previously unannounced participant could walk away with the win. My heart would grow three sizes if Ruby Riott was the winner, but I don’t think they are ready to pull the spotlight trigger on her yet. (Prediction: Charlotte Flair)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, CHARLOTTE FLAIR
2019 Men’s Royal Rumble Match
Andrew: There are a lot of big names featured in this match ranging from Samoa Joe, Drew McIntyre, Jeff Hardy, Rey Mysterio, and John Cena. The name that sticks out to me is Seth Rollins, and he’s been rumored to take on Universal Champion Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania. I think there’s fire where there is smoke then that’s something to consider and have Rollins getting it done. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)
Ian: I’m taking Seth Rollins to enter in at an early position and go all the way through the pack. It feels as though Seth has been the MVP of Raw this year and the last remaining babyface to get a shot at Brock at WrestleMania. Whether he’s able to go to WrestleMania and win the Universal Championship is another question entirely. Samoa Joe and Bobby Lashley I could consider dark horse contenders. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)
Jeff: My literal favourite match of the year! So much potential! So many surprises! So much fun! That said, if I had to bear down and pick a winner, it would be: The Repo Man. Always The Repo Man. If he’s not in the match this year though, Seth Rollins is the logical choice. Not only has he been the best worker on RAW for the better part of a year, he’s the best suited to Main Event Wrestlemania. With that said though, ruling our Drew McIntyre would be a mistake and my sleeper favourite is Samoa Joe. But Rollins is the clearest bet. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, SETH ROLLINS
Daniel Bryan vs. A.J. Styles (WWE Title)
Andrew: Daniel Bryan wins and retains his title. This should be the blow-off match between these two stars and the best match thus far between them. AJ Styles who decided that he wanted to drop the title, according to reports. Secondly, Bryan just won the title two months ago. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan)
Ian: Unless AJ Styles has signed a contract extension we aren’t aware of, I don’t see him winning back the WWE Championship anytime soon. Styles signed a 3-year deal with WWE in 2016, although it is currently not known when his end date is or if an extension has been agreed to. WWE seems committed to heel Bryan as champion, I don’t see them changing course on Sunday. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan)
Jeff: “The New” Daniel Bryan should never not be WWE Champion. Sure, we love him as a scrappy vegan babyface, but as an obnoxious, condescending and not entirely incorrect heel, he’s a freakin’ gem. The theme of this year’s Royal Rumble seems to be reminding people how good the performers we’ve become accustomed to can be. AJ Styles is the poster boy for this, as his runs and feuds this year have been pretty forgettable. Give this one 20-30 minutes and just let these guys GO. Bryan retains in the end, but man, it could be so much FUN to watch! (Prediction: Daniel Bryan)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, DANIEL BRYAN
Brock Lesnar vs. Finn Balor (WWE Universal Title)
Andrew: Outside of big fans of Finn Balor, I don’t know who is giving him a chance against Brock Lesnar. Yes, this has the potential to be a fun match due to the dynamic of these stars. I just don’t see Balor getting it done here as much as fun it would be. Lesnar moves on with the strap. (Prediction: Brock Lesnar)
Ian: There is a part of me who wants to suggest Finn Balor is exactly who WWE should be pushing right now but that part of me is drowned out by the understanding that Vince doesn’t see him as large enough to beat his big monster. This match will likely go similar to AJ Styles’ match against Lesnar from Survivor Series 2017, the challenger will somehow make the crowd believe he has a chance, only to ultimately lose in the end. (Prediction: Brock Lesnar)
Jeff: It’ll be a spectacle. It’ll be brutally violent. It’ll be 10 minutes, tops. But at the end of the night, you’re Universal Champion will still be Brock Lesnar. Lesnar is going to hold that belt until the last possible minute his contract allows. Even then, he might just sign a new one and keep rolling with it if UFC doesn’t get their ducks in a row. Finn needs to have a good showing here to remind everyone just what he is capable of. I expect that he’ll get in some good offence on an “unexpecting” Lesnar and come away looking good. Lesnar will then suplex him into oblivion and that’ll be that. After all, Brock doesn’t mind doing that as long as he gets paid. (Prediction: Brock Lesnar)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, BROCK LESNAR
What do the experts think is going to happen on Sunday? Check out the official WWE Royal Rumble betting odds. What do you think of the above WWE Royal Rumble predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section below, and make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com on Sunday evening for live play-by-play results coverage of the show!
WWE returns to the SAP Center in San Jose, California on Sunday night, as they close out 2018 with their final pay-per-view event — WWE TLC. The show marks the tenth event promoted under the TLC chronology.
Sunday’s show goes down live on PPV and via the WWE Network with multiple world championship matches, as well as the best talents and rivalries from the RAW, SmackDown Live and 205 Live brands.
Headlining the event this weekend will be Daniel Bryan vs. A.J. Styles for the WWE Championship. In other featured bouts, Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose will do battle for the WWE Intercontinental Championship and Ronda Rousey defends her RAW Women’s Championship against Nia Jax.
In keeping with the TLC theme, there will be two Tables, Ladders and Chairs matches, as Braun Strowman and Baron Corbin look to settle their differences, and Becky Lynch will defend her SmackDown Live Women’s Championship against Charlotte Flair and Asuka. The show will also feature Rey Mysterio vs. Randy Orton in a Chairs Match, Bobby Lashley vs. Elias in a Ladder Match and Natalya vs. Ruby Riott in a Tables Match.
Also on Sunday’s PPV, the second season of WWE’s Mixed Match Challenge series will wrap-up, as R-Truth and Carmella meet Jinder Mahal and Alicia Fox in the finals of the tournament.
As is the case before every high-profile WWE and NXT event, SEScoops.com has you covered from all-angles with pre-show news and coverage leading right up to the event. Writers Andrew Ravens, Ian Carey and Jeff Moss have collaborated to produce their predictions and in-depth analysis for each match on the WWE TLC card. Without any further adieu, let’s jump into the SEScoops.com predictions roundtable for this year’s WWE TLC PPV.
WWE TLC
Rey Mysterio vs. Randy Orton (Chairs Match)
Andrew Ravens: With this card featuring so many heels going over in their matches and the fact that WWE has kept Mysterio strong since returning, I actually have Mysterio going over here. A late minute addition to the card but should be a fun match nonetheless. (Prediction: Rey Mysterio)
Ian Carey: Orton should get the win here. Mysterio beat Orton at Crown Jewel and it’s unlikely Vince will have Orton lose two in a row to the same guy on PPV. Mysterio has been selling a neck injury heading into this match which will likely play into the finish. (Prediction: Randy Orton)
Jeff Moss: The one low point on the Smackdown Live side of things for this event. What do I even say about this? It’s like putting on a greatest hits record from a band you listened to in high school. Im sure it’ll be entertaining as each wrestler plays that song that I loved when I was younger, moving back and forth between familiar choruses. Hell, there may even be a new song worked in there too. But, at the end of the day, I’m still not going to rush out and get excited about remastered hits I’ve heard a million times. So this will be fun, but in the end, fairly pointless. (Prediction: *Flips Coin* Rey Mysterio)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Rey Mysterio
R-Truth & Carmella vs. Jinder Mahal & Alicia Fox (MMC Season 2 Finals)
Andrew: A lackluster finals involving these superstars. It’s really a toss-up as who will win this contest. I think the idea of this tournament was all about putting smiles on people’s faces. Whether that worked or not as designed by WWE, didn’t help interest in it. I have R-Truth and Carmella going over to win this tournament. (Prediction: R-Truth & Carmella)
Ian: I expect Carmella and R-Truth to walk away from this match the winners. As a result, each will enter at #30 in their respective Royal Rumbles this year. Somehow, R-Truth might still manage to mess that up, however. The winners are also being booked on a vacation which should result in some comedic antics between the pair. (Prediction: R-Truth & Carmella)
Jeff: This is it, kids. After weeks of heated rivalry, win and loss exchanges and a gruelling tournament, this is the match that brings it all to a head and determines once and for all (checks notes)… who gets a vacation? Oh right, this is that Facebook thing. Why is this taking up time on an already-stacked PPV? All I can ask from this match is that it’s short so not one else has to suffer a Mixed Match Challenge-related injury. (Prediction: R-Truth & Carmella)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, R-Truth & Carmella
Buddy Murphy vs. Cedric Alexander (WWE Cruiserweight Title)
Andrew: Due to the fact that Murphy beat Alexander to win the title back at the Super-Showdown event, there’s a chance that WWE could do a surprise title change here. However, I think Murphy has done a fine job as champion and should remain on top of the division. (Prediction: Buddy Murphy)
Ian: I’m expecting a title change here. Alexander is the bigger name on 205 Live right now and the title works a little better around his waist. In my opinion, they missed the ball not putting the belt on Mustafa Ali at Survivor Series but perhaps the main roster is where the heart and soul of 205 Live is going to end up. (Prediction: Cedric Alexander)
Jeff: If this match doesn’t get pre-showed it should be pretty great. With Mustafa Ali’s killer showing on Smackdown Live this week, the 205 brand has never been on more people’s radar and this could really help to get some new eyes on it. Buddy Murphy has gone from Alexa Bliss accessory to credible killer really well and Cedric is at the top of his game. He also really likes to have fun, from what I understand. Regardless, these two should tear it up with Buddy retaining. (Prediction: Buddy Murphy)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Buddy Murphy
Bobby Lashley vs. Elias (Ladder Match)
Andrew: No disrespect to either guy here but this could be the worse match on the card. Elias should get the win here but with the way that WWE has been booking Lashley as of late, don’t be surprised to see him go over. However, to keep things having an equal balance, Elias gets it done. (Prediction: Elias)
Ian: This is one of those weird ladder match where there is a weapon hanging. The match doesn’t end when you get the weapon, you’re just able to use it. Both of these two are well protected right now in WWE, so honestly I’m expecting a non-finish here to protect them both. How that happens is anyone’s guess but I expect Vince won’t want either guy to take a loss on an undercard match. (Prediction: No Contest)
Jeff: Unless Judy Bagwell is holding the titular Guitar On a Pole, I can’t say this interests me even a little bit. I see Elias winning this one for two reasons; 1.) his jokes about Lio Rush are the closest to funny that WWE has come in a long time and 2.) Avenging me for having to sit through multiple weeks of Bobby Lashley presenting his butthole to the world. I mean, it’s a pretty great looking derriere, but enough is enough, dude. (Prediction: Elias)
CONSENSUS: 2-0-1, Elias
Finn Balor vs. Drew McIntyre
Andrew: This could be one of the better matches on the card, but as much as Balor is a fan favorite, WWE is clearly and rightfully behind McIntyre right now. He’s one of the top/best heels that RAW has to offer these days. McIntyre should go over and do it conveniently. (Prediction: Drew McIntyre)
Ian: McIntyre is the favorite son right now, so he’ll get the win. Once upon a time, Finn Balor was a favorite son who was pegged as a top guy. That changed upon his return from injury after winning the Universal title. Maybe one day Finn will be pushed back to the top again but that day won’t be Sunday. (Prediction: Drew McIntyre)
Jeff: For what seems like the 50th event in a row, I find myself saying “Oh Finn… what happened?” But at least this time around he’s up against Drew McIntrye who seems to be destined to be a Champion, probably sooner than later. With that being apparent, I’d call this one for McIntyre just to keep him as the dominant monster they want him to be. Maybe Lars Sullivan debuts during this match to set up some Big Dude v Big Dude action at the Royal Rumble? (Prediction: Drew McIntyre)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Drew McIntyre
Natalya vs. Ruby Riott (Tables Match)
Andrew: Riott has been getting the upper hand in this feud and even brought up Natalya’s late father who appears to be used in their upcoming match as an image on a table. Natalya gets her revenge and has a feel-good moment. (Prediction: Natalya)
Ian: Natalya will get the win and Ruby Riott will get her comeuppance. This might be a bit of cringe-worthy angle but it should be a good match. Both Natalya and Ruby Riott can really go in the ring, and this match is a good chance to really showcase how good Riott is. Natalya will still get the win though. (Prediction: Natalya)
Jeff: This is a tough one. As I’ve always said, Ruby Riott is a blameless, holy creature and probably one of the best “traditional” heels on the Raw roster right now. But Nattie is (by extension, marriage and a whole lot of weird math) a Hart. And I loves me some Harts, always have always will. What should happen here is Nattie shirking off “character” and just beating the holy hell out of Riott for being disrespectful to her father. Remind everyone why Nattie is the veteran that she is, with the pedigree that she has. But, WWE for some reason likes to see her cry, so I imagine that Ruby wins and makes Nattie eat a cake shaped like her dad or something silly like that. … Sidebar: Being the wrestler he was, you know Anvil, wherever he is, got a kick out of that table with his picture on it … (Prediction: Ruby Riott)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Natalya
The Bar vs. The New Day vs. The Usos (SmackDown Tag Titles)
Andrew: This should be a really fun match, but there’s a problem with the competitors in it. We’ve seen New Day, and Usos hold the titles plenty of times. It makes no sense for Cesaro and Sheamus to drop the titles here as what’s the point outside of just having a title change for the heck of it. SmackDown desperately needs new tag teams to challenge for the titles. (Prediction: The Bar)
Ian: I’m expecting the Usos to walk away from this match with the titles. They were the only surviving members of the tag-team Survivor Series match which could indicate they are being viewed as the top team in the division right now. (Prediction: The Usos)
Jeff: If we know anything about Uso/New Day matches it’s that they have a tendency to be really damn good. These two teams know each other inside and out and have put on some of the more memorable and exciting tag team matches of the year and I doubt this will be any exception. Also the Bar will be there! Let’s be honest, Raw’s Tag scene is so dismal right now that their titles aren’t even on the show. So this match has a low bar to start (no pun intended). Now that Big Show has gone back to the gym to give himself 9th and 10 abs, I think it’d be cool to start a Bar breakup and have the Usos grab the titles. But that’s just me. (Prediction: The Usos)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, The Usos
Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte Flair vs. Asuka (TLC Match For SmackDown Women’s Title)
Andrew: And here is what most people will look forward to the most on this card as it could go in many different ways. Whether that sees Lynch retain or Flair or Asuka win the title. By adding Asuka to this match and making it a TLC match, I actually think Flair gets it done and wins the title. Have Asuka be the reason for allowing Flair to win the title. This also gives Lynch a path without looking weak by losing her title and allowing her journey to a match against Ronda Rousey at Mania begin. (Prediction: Charlotte Flair)
Ian: This is a tough one but I’m taking Asuka. To pick this match correctly you really have to know where they are going for WrestleMania and how they plan to get there. Nobody but Vince McMahon knows for sure what that will be. One option is that Asuka wins the title and Becky enters the Rumble next month for a chance to face Rousey at WrestleMania. (Prediction: Asuka)
Jeff: This is the main event, right? We can all agree on that? I think even Bryan and AJ would support that claim. Becky Lynch is the hottest character in the company right now and deservedly so. She’s even making Charlotte step up and develop herself beyond “I’m a flair and I win a lot because I’m great” (which she is). The best part of this match for me is the fact that since she’s in the ring with two insanely talented women, Auska can finally be Auska again. Let all three loose and this easily becomes match of the night. A winner is honestly hard to pick because there’s an upside to each one of them holding or not holding the title. To push this forward though, I think Charlotte pins Auska leading into the Royal Rumble where Becky can win and get a shot a reclaiming the title she never lost. (Prediction: Charlotte Flair)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Charlotte Flair
Ronda Rousey vs. Nia Jax (RAW Women’s Title)
Andrew: There’s no good reason for Rousey to lose to Jax here as Rousey needs to lose to someone with a bigger name at a bigger show. Jax has been built up alright considering the Becky Lynch incident that got her more heat for the situation rather than her character in the lead up to this match. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
Ian: This should be a bit of a no-brainer, Rousey is going to win this and likely knock Nia down a few pegs as she does. I don’t expect Nia to continue to be a big-time player on Raw for a little bit after this. Rousey will likely turn her attention to Becky and/or Charlotte on Smackdown during the road to WrestleMania, which really gets going next month at the Royal Rumble. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
Jeff: My initial prediction for this match was simply Ronda stomping to the ring, destroying Jax and stomping to back to play D&D or whatever it is she does with her other MMA friends when they hang out. But, the more I think about it, if a Rousey/Becky Main event of WrestleMania is where we are heading, do either one of them really NEED a title? Ronda’s got the clout, Becky’s got the heat… It could be a killer match based on their mutual dislike of each other alone. That said, it may be asking too much of RAW right now, so barring any unforeseen roster moves .. I.E. – Becky to RAW … I see Ronda retaining here. Tamina may try to help on Jax’s behalf, but really, is Tamina ever actually a help? (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Ronda Rousey
Braun Strowman vs. Baron Corbin (TLC Match)
Andrew: As long as Strowman can actually work this show, then he should go over as it only makes sense with the current storylines in place regarding what both men have to win and lose. Strowman gets it done with him going onto challenge Brock Lesnar at the Royal Rumble. Maybe this could lead to Kurt Angle vs. Baron Corbin next. (Prediction: Braun Strowman)
Ian: What happens here will likely depend on how healthy Strowman is going in. For Strowman to win, it would have to mean Vince is done with Baron Corbin as an authority figure on Raw. At some point, Kurt Angle is coming back so I’m thinking Strowman should get the win here and Corbin will lose out on his shot to be the full-time Raw GM. (Prediction: Braun Strowman)
Jeff: Corbin made a lot of sly remarks about Strowman only having “one hand” or “one arm” this week on RAW, so that leads to me to believe that Strowman might just show up and take him on, injured or not. Sadly, since WWE doesn’t care about their own Universal title, and seems to be hell-bent on making “Evil GM’s” the only story they feel like telling with any consistency, Baron Corbin will win here (probably with outside help from Drew McIntyre) and become the “Permanent” GM of Raw. Then he’ll hand Strowman’s title oppour— Title Match, dammit, to McIntyre for the assist. To be honest, I’d be ok with seeing Brock and Drew throw bombs at each other for 15 minutes or so, but that’s getting ahead of ourselves. (Prediction: Baron Corbin)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Braun Strowman
Seth Rollins vs. Dean Ambrose (WWE Intercontinental Title)
Andrew: This could be a match that will steal the show and one that needs a title change in order for it to continue. The build-up to this match between Ambrose and Rollins has been the fact that Rollins is looking to get his payback on Ambrose for attacking him. Thus, I have Ambrose winning the title which will allow for this feud to continue and Rollins to have a reason to want to battle Ambrose. (Prediction: Dean Ambrose)
Ian: Unless Ambrose has not been properly vaccinated for his trip to San Jose, I expect him to pick up the victory against Rollins. Ambrose needs a win to start off his heel turn on the right foot, meanwhile Rollins can afford a few losses at this stage so I’m expecting Ambrose to pick up the win and the title. (Prediction: Dean Ambrose)
Jeff: So here’s the thing about Dean Ambrose since he came back: he’s low-key been the best promo and character on the show, but so subtly that it may not have been noticed. This past week, watch how he changes demeanour when Roman Reigns is brought up. Ambrose is a scared man who has broken a bit by the tragedy that’s befallen his brother and he’s lashing out at his other brother to compensate. It’s the height of “I’ll break up with you by treating you badly until you leave because I know I don’t deserve you but don’t have the guts to change for you” thinking and it’s FASCINATING. I’m looking forward to seeing what these two do in the ring with all the energy and passion that they can both bring. As for a winner? This is only the start of a long feud, so I’d see Ambrose taking this one and making Seth try to catch up to him. (Prediction: Dean Ambrose)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Dean Ambrose
Daniel Bryan vs. A.J. Styles (WWE Title)
Andrew: This should be one of the easier picks on the card considering two things. One, it was AJ Styles who decided that he wanted to drop the title, according to reports. Secondly, Bryan just won the title, and it makes no sense even with WWE’s booking to have him drop the title so soon. I see this being the final match between these two stars and look forward to seeing what’s next for them. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan)
Ian: I’m expecting the new Daniel Bryan to walk away with the title but not the win in this match. Bryan has shown he’s willing to do anything to get the title, so he’ll likely do antyhing to keep it. AJ Styles will likely win this match by DQ, leading to a gimmick match between the two at the Royal Rumble. (Prediction: A.J. Styles via DQ)
Jeff: For the last year, AJ Styles thing has been either a) Face Who Is In Charge Of a Certain Location or b) WWE Champion. His run as champion was lukewarm at best, and had me hoping the belt would go to ANYONE else. I was so damned happy when it became Ultimate Jerk Daniel Bryan that if they take it off him now, I may just lose it. I love AJ, but it’s time for him to do something new. Take on a different challenge and be repositioned slightly. Wouldn’t it be a million times better to see the Miz’s trophy shenanigans with AJ instead of the tomato pretending to be Shane McMahon? So, with all that said, Bryan retains here and continues yelling “FICKLE” at us all until at least Feb. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Daniel Bryan
What do the experts think is going to happen on Sunday evening? Check out the official WWE TLC betting odds. What do you think of the above WWE TLC predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section below, and make sure to join us here on Sunday evening for live play-by-play results coverage of the entire event.
WWE Survivor Series weekend is here, and with it comes four straight nights at the STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California. The company will be producing their thirty-second event promoted under the WWE Survivor Series chronology on Sunday night, as WWE Survivor Series 2018 goes down live on pay-per-view and via the WWE Network.
Sunday’s big PPV features a stacked lineup with multiple world championship matches, as well as the best talents and rivalries from the RAW, SmackDown Live and 205 Live brands. The main event for WWE Survivor Series will feature WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar going one-on-one against WWE Champion Daniel Bryan in a “Champion vs. Champion” non-title showdown. For years now, Bryan has described “The Beast Incarnate” as a “dream opponent” for him, and after pulling off the shocking upset over A.J. Styles to capture the WWE Championship on the WWE Survivor Series “go-home” edition of SmackDown Live. In other featured bouts at the big event this Sunday, RAW Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey meets Charlotte Flair in somewhat of another “dream match” pairing on a high-profile event. The match was put together days before the show due to Becky Lynch pulling out of the match after suffering injuries as a result of a stiff punch from Nia Jax on the “go-home” RAW show for the PPV on Monday night.
The traditional Survivor Series elimination matches will be featured this Sunday night as well, as there are the men’s singles, men’s tag-team and women’s singles bouts all scheduled for the show, and the men’s tag-team bout on the “Kickoff Show” pre-show leading into the PPV on the WWE Network.
Finally, rounding out the card will be a RAW Tag-Team Championship bout with The Bar defending against The Authors Of Pain, a WWE Cruiserweight Championship match with Buddy Murphy defending against Mustafa Ali and another “Champion vs. Champion” non-title showdown, as WWE Intercontinental Champion Seth Rollins meets WWE United States Champion Shinsuke Nakamura in what is sure to be a candidate for “Match of the Night.”
As is the case before every high-profile WWE and NXT event, SEScoops.com has you covered from all-angles with pre-show news and coverage leading right up to the event. Writers Andrew Ravens, Ian Carey and Jeff Moss have collaborated to produce their predictions and in-depth analysis for each match on the WWE Survivor Series PPV card. Without any further adieu, let’s jump into the SEScoops.com predictions roundtable for this year’s WWE Survivor Series PPV.
WWE SURVIVOR SERIES
The Bar vs. Authors Of Pain (RAW Tag Titles)
Andrew Ravens: A real toss-up here. Either team could go over in this contest but with the way that the WWE has been booking AOP since making their main roster debuts, they’ve kept them strong, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon especially with there not being any clear-cut challengers on the red brand. (Prediction: Authors Of Pain)
Ian Carey: The Bar can lose and it won’t be a big deal. The Authors of Pain, however, are being built up as monsters so it wouldn’t be advised to have them lose. The Bar will have Big Show on the outside, as he has seemingly become their 3rd member. Unless the match ends via DQ or count-out, I can’t see them having AOP lose. (Prediction: Authors Of Pain)
Jeff Moss: The part of this match that has to, no, NEEDS to happen is outside the ring when Big Show puts Drake Maverick in between two pieces of bread and devours him as part of his crazy giant-with-a-six-pack diet. Aside from that, I expect this match to be a good ol’ fashioned slobber-knocker. 3/4 participants are big dudes who like to hit stuff and Cesaro rounds out the foursome with his amazing ability to be, well, amazing. The Bar is going to take this simply because they have the dynamic of a brawler/wrestler as opposed to brawler/brawler. Also, experience plays a factor and the AOP are still pretty green on the Main Roster. I reserve the right to be surprised, but The Bar wins. (Prediction: The Bar)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Authors Of Pain
Buddy Murphy vs. Mustafa Ali (WWE Cruiserweight Title)
Andrew: Buddy Murphy just won the title from Cedric Alexander at Super Show-Down, and it’s too early for him to drop the title especially to Mustafa Ali. I could be wrong with Ali, but he appears to be some who is in the title picture for a short amount of time before WWE goes in a different direction whether that means Alexander being back in the fold or having a new challenger. (Prediction: Buddy Murphy)
Ian: This is a tough one. I feel confident that title is eventually going on Lio Rush but that doesn’t appear to be the plan for the near-future. Rush suffered his first single’s loss on 205 Live this week when he was pinned by Cedric Alexander. It feels like you have to put the title on Ali at some point just because he has become the workhorse of the division. I just don’t see it happening on Sunday, however. (Prediction: Buddy Murphy)
Jeff: Does the winner of this match count as a win for Smackdown or Raw? I honestly don’t know. Bit, with the Tag-Team Elimination match taking place on the Kickoff show, could it be possible that the Cruiserweight title might be defended on an actual PPV? If it does, I hope these guys go out and completely blow the roof off the joint and show people that 205 Live is worth checking out. Murphy has re-invented himself so well in 205 and Ali is a terrific scrappy babyface. Give them 15 minutes and let them go. In terms of winners though, Murphy retains here to continue building him as a dominant champion and the King of The Cru— uh, the Man That Gravity Forg— er, … Buddy Murphy! (Prediction: Buddy Murphy)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Buddy Murphy
Men’s Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Match
(TEAM RAW: Braun Strowman, Bobby Lashley, Finn Balor, Drew McIntyre & Dolph Ziggler vs. TEAM SMACKDOWN: Shane McMahon, Rey Mysterio, Jeff Hardy, Samoa Joe & The Miz)
Andrew: Another year with another Team RAW win. Yes,, that does sound like a broken record but that’s the way that Vince McMahon sees the brands with RAW being the top show at least until October of 2019 when SmackDown moves to FOX. Although, you have to give WWE credit for stacking both of these teams, which should make for a fun match. Strowman should have an outstanding performance and even might get physical with Baron Corbin, who is expected to be the team captain. (Prediction: Team RAW)
Ian: If Team Raw wins, Braun Strowman will be granted another Universal title opportunity and a match with Baron Corbin. If Smackdown wins…uh, Shane McMahon will be happy. The lack of stipulations surrounding a Smackdown win leaves me to believe Raw will pick up the victory here. We should find out more about what Shane McMahon’s future holds in this match as well. If he is going heel and is to play a bigger role in storylines moving forward, this will become apparent on Sunday. (Prediction: Team RAW)
Jeff: I should preface this by saying that I’ve never been a huge fan of the “traditional” Survivor Series matches. They rarely have any stakes or urgency and slapping the prize of “BRAND SUPREMACY” on them makes it sound like it’s a match between Disney and Coke. That said though, when I look at the members of these two teams, I can see some great matchups like Samoa Joe/Drew McIntyre, Finn Balor/Rey Mysterio and THE BEST WRESTLER IN THE WORLD Shane McMahon/The receiving end of Braun Strowman’s fist. RAW has won this matchup two years in a row and I think they’ve got the better team again this year. Unless there’s some shenanigans afoot, RAW’s going to win this and continue to… supremely brand themselves? I guess? (Prediction: Team RAW)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Team RAW
Women’s Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Match
(TEAM RAW: Natalya, Mickie James, Nia Jax, Ruby Riott & Tamina vs. TEAM SMACKDOWN: Asuka, Carmella, Naomi, Sonya Deville & TBD)
Andrew: Another year with another Team RAW win. In last year’s match seeing the RAW brand winning, I don’t think anything changes. RAW is the flagship show of the company and really, the teams just have filler names on it. I think Asuka has a really good performance in this match but the numbers will get the best of her in order to allow RAW to prevail. (Prediction: Team RAW)
Ian: Team Smackdown will win this match after Team Raw implodes. Natalya and Ruby Riott will be on the same team this Sunday, and one of those two owes the other a nice pair of sunglasses. They will likely ditch the match and start fighting with each other. Tamina and Nia Jax could abandon the match altogether, as WWE won’t want either of them getting pinned for a while. I’m expecting the two of them to walk out on their partners, get counted out, or otherwise get eliminated from the match without getting pinned or submitted. Team Smackdown still has a member yet to be named. It could be Mandy Rose, it could be someone from NXT. Whoever it is, however, they are likely in line for a push if they are being kept secret. (Prediction: Team SmackDown)
Jeff: Given how much has happened in the last week within the women’s division on both shows, this is the one 5-on-5 match that I’m actually looking forward to. The seem really pissed off at each other and there’s some genuine excitement at the thought of these two teams squaring off. Will Nia Jax have to pay for what she did? Will Sonya Deville be the breakout star of the match? Will Tamina be able to get into the ring with out tripping? These are all interesting questions. While I’m usually firmly in the “Anything with Ruby Riott is the best” camp, I can only see Smackdown taking this one. Especially if we are keeping “score” on those Brand vs Brand matches. (Prediction: Team SmackDown)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Team SmackDown
Seth Rollins vs. Shinsuke Nakamura (Champion vs. Champion)
Andrew: This could be the best-worked match of the night and steal the show from a wrestling point of view. Rollins has been one of the most interesting star to follow thus far this year and although many would pick him to win, I think there is one factor missing, which is Dean Ambrose, who doesn’t have a match booked here. Thus, I have Nakamura going over with the help from Ambrose. (Prediction: Shinsuke Nakamura)
Ian: One guy is in a rivalry with another Superstar and one is not. Shinsuke Nakamura should pick up the victory here but only after some outside interference from Dean Ambrose. Ultimately, WWE will be able to keep both guys strong here as Nakamura will win the match and Rollins will only lose because of Ambrose, giving him motivation in his ongoing feud on Raw. Rollins really wanted this match which means he’s likely motivated to put on a good show. Expect this to be the show-stealer. (Prediction: Shinsuke Nakamura)
Jeff: If there is one match on the card that SHOULD be great, it’s this one. Rollins is easily the best thing going on RAW right now and we know what Nakamura is capable of when he shows up and the leash is loosened a bit. Nak has been in the background on Smackdown for too long and this is a great chance to remind people what he can do with someone who can keep up with him. Rollins can take the loss here (Either clean or via Ambrose interference) and still be the best thing on RAW, so it makes sense for Shinske to get the pin. If allowed to be, this could be another Nakamura/Zayn level match, we’ll just have to wait and see what they put into it. (Prediction: Shinske Nakamura)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Shinsuke Nakamura
Ronda Rousey vs. Charlotte Flair
Andrew: Well, Ronda Rousey vs. Charlotte Flair is happening earlier than originally expected and it’s a shame as many fans were looking forward to seeing Lynch take on Rousey. However, we have to deal with that. I actually think that Flair vs. Rousey is going to be a better match as Flair is arguably the best in-ring wrestler that the WWE has right now in the women’s division. Flair puts up a heck of a fight but falls to Rousey. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
Ian: I have to imagine Rousey is going to pick up the victory here. It’s too early to have her lose, especially if they are hoping to put her in the WrestleMania main event this spring. Flair is on a losing streak as it is, having lost the title to Lynch and then failing to win it back again. Her drop in confidence has also been made a part of storyline, where she initially turned down a spot on the Smackdown Survivor Series team. A loss to Rousey simply allows them to continue with that story while Rousey moves her attention to Nia Jax before ultimately placing it back on Lynch before Mania. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
Jeff: I was very surprised when Charlotte was named as Becky Lynch’s replacement in this match. WWE had been teasing and talking about Flair/Rousey being a Wrestlemania Main Event. This isn’t to say it still couldn’t be, but it seems strange to pit them against each other now if that’s still the plan for April. Then again, given how, uh, fluid, things have been with this show, I guess they felt they needed a big matchup like this to make up for losing the hottest performer in the company (Lynch). Rousey has shown she can be entertaining in the ring when she has someone to help her out a bit (She’s only been a pro wrestler for 10 months or sol) and Charlotte has developed into a cagey veteran who can do that. I expect Becky to be involved in the finish of the match to keep her in the spotlight, but in the end WWE’s not ready to hand Ronda her first singles loss just yet. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Ronda Rousey
Brock Lesnar vs. Daniel Bryan (Champion vs. Champion)
Andrew: Daniel Bryan will finally get to take part in his dream match against Brock Lesnar, but unfortunately, I don’t see a way that he wins this match nor do I think he should. Yes, Bryan just turned heel and needs as much momentum as possible but no one is giving him a chance to win. Like it or not, being the Universal Champion means that you’re the top star in the company and currently, Lesnar is just that. (Prediction: Brock Lesnar)
Ian: Daniel Bryan was moved into this match after winning the WWE Championship and turning heel all in the same night on Tuesday. It seemed like Vince Russo was booking WWE again there were so many things happening at once. Once upon a time, Brock Lesnar was too squash Daniel Bryan in the SummerSlam main event. Something tells me that plan gets put back into place on Sunday only at Survivor Series instead. I’m expecting Lesnar to roll through Bryan without giving up much offense in return. (Prediction: Brock Lesnar)
Jeff: A dream matchup if there ever was one, and a matchup that Bryan has lobbied for a LOT. While the size difference between the two puts Bryan at a disadvantage, this is Heel Bryan we’re talking about, so he could find a way to win. Unfortunately for him, WWE isn’t going to let Brock eat a pin in a situation like this, so I think he will take the win in the end. But, that said, if anyone can pull a decent match out of Brock Lesnar at this point, it’s Daniel Bryan. Hopefully it’s not a straight-up squash and they can both look good in the end. (Prediction: Brock Lesnar)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Brock Lesnar
What do the experts think is going to happen on Sunday evening? Check out the official WWE Survivor Series betting odds. What do you think of the above WWE Survivor Series predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section below, and make sure to join us here on Sunday evening for live play-by-play results coverage of the entire event.
NXT TakeOver: WarGames II goes down this weekend, kicking off four straight nights at the STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California for WWE. The company will be producing their second “WarGames” themed show and their twenty-third overall event under the “NXT TakeOver” banner on Saturday, live via the WWE Network.
Saturday’s live WWE Network special features an excellent, albeit brief card containing only four matches. Each match is an important one, however, as included in the card are NXT World Championship and NXT Women’s Championship matches, the namesake WarGames bout and a grudge match between Aleister Black and Johnny Gargano.
The main event will feature Tommaso Ciampa defending his NXT World Championship against Velveteen Dream in one-on-one action, while the NXT Women’s Championship bout will feature “The Queen of Spades” Shayna Baszler defending her title against former title-holder and the first-ever Mae Young Classic tournament winner Kairi Sane in a two-out-of-three falls match. The WarGames bout will include all four members of The Undisputed ERA — Adam Cole, Roderick Strong, Bobby Fish and Kyle O’Reilly — facing off against The War Raiders — Hanson and Rowe — as well as WWE U.K. Champion Pete Dunne and NXT North American Champion Ricochet. Finally, The Black-Gargano bout will be the culmination of a longstanding rivalry that picked up momentum when Gargano turned heel and was revealed as the man who attacked Black in the parking lot of Full Sail University following the August 8th episode of NXT TV.
SEScoops.com writers Andrew Ravens, Jeff Moss and Ian Carey have prepared their predictions for each of the matches scheduled for Saturday night’s big event. Without further adieu, here are the SEScoops.com staff predictions for NXT TakeOver: WarGames II.
Shayna Baszler vs. Kairi Sane (2-Out-Of-3 Falls NXT Women’s Title)
Andrew Ravens: Baszler just won the title back at the Evolution PPV event, and with this current stipulation that goes along with this match, I think it plays a factor into Sane winning here. Baszler had to cheat to even win the title back, and Sane has her number when going one-on-one. Thus, Sane gets her title back and moves onto another program. (Prediction: Kairi Sane)
Jeff Moss: At Evolution, these two were a high spot in a night of high spots and if ever there was a more deserving pair to pick up the “fight forever” tag, it’s Sane and Baszler. Their matches tend to play off of the previous one, which I love. Too often when wrestlers face each other over and over, they forget what worked and didn’t work last time. These two learn from each match and have surprises for each other in the next one. I have a feeling there’s a Horsewoman battle a-brewing, so I think Sane will win back her title here, freeing up Shayna to play with her friends for a bit. But when that’s done, she might be a rare case of someone who comes back to NXT for a last run before permanent call up. (Prediction: Kairi Sane)
Ian Carey: I feel as though Triple H is really high on Baszler. Also, at Evolution, she established that her old MMA training partners are now in the promotion as well and looking to help Shayna protect her championship. It seems unlikely to me that they would take the title off of her so quickly after she regained it at Evolution and established new allies in the process. (Prediction: Shayna Baszler)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Kairi Sane
Undisputed ERA vs. War Raiders, Pete Dunne & Ricochet (WAR GAMES)
Andrew: Wrestling 101 says that the babyfaces go over here and I agree. It just makes sense as The Undisputed Era are up for getting beat as it plays into the story. Unless WWE just wants to go for a swerve with Pete Dunne turning heel and joining the group, I don’t see why the heels would go over here. (Prediction: War Raiders, Pete Dunne & Ricochet)
Jeff: So, let me just recap here: 1. Ricochet. 2. Double Ring Steel Cage. 3. The rest. Yeah, this is going to be AWESOME. I found myself enjoying last year’s War Games match way more than I thought I would and damn if this one doesn’t look like it’s going to be even better. Pete Dunne is gold, the War Raiders have the ability to be devastating in this kind of match and the Undisputed Era id back to full air-guitar-wailing strength. I cannot wait to see this match and though the Undisputed Era won it last year, I think they will go Back-To-Back, more than likely due to the re-ignition of a Dunne/Ricochet beef. (Prediction: The Undisputed ERA)
Ian: The last WarGames match was one of the best matches in NXT history so there is good reason to be looking forward to this match. Kyle O’Reilly picked up the win over Hanson to earn his team the advantage at WarGames on NXT last night. The match was far more exciting than the usual coin flip. I’m giving this match to the babyfaces almost purely to even out the wins on the show between heels and faces. Come the next Takeover, however, expect the tag, North American, and UK titles to be on the line in matches involving some of the wrestlers involved in this match. We could find out who will be challenging for what title next Takeover based on how things shape up in the WarGames match on Saturday. (Prediction: War Raiders, Pete Dunne & Ricochet)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, War Raiders, Pete Dunne & Ricochet
Johnny Gargano vs. Aleister Black
Andrew: No doubt this will be a fun match that could go either way depending on how long the WWE wants to extend this program or what plans are in place for these two stars. This is the first match between them in this current feud and should be a barnburner depending on how much time they give them. The obvious choice would have Black going over here, but I have the feeling that we get one more match with these two stars. Gargano cheats and sneaks out a win. (Prediction: Johnny Gargano)
Jeff: This one is going to be U-G-L-Y. Gargano has snapped and Black is out for blood. This is the real test for Gargano. Has he completely turned to the Dark Side? or is there an idealistic farm boy and ghostly space wizard waiting to bring him back to the light? Or will Black force him to kill Johnny Wrestling for good in order to win. The drama for this match is so wonderfully high, we win either way. But, given how monkey-wrench-prone the main roster is these days, it wouldn’t shock me to see Black on Raw or Smackdown post-Takeover to add a little of his brand of sinister chaos, so I’m picking Gargano here. (Prediction: Johnny Gargano)
Ian: I’m expecting Aleister Black to tear through Johnny Gargano Saturday night. Even though this will be Gargano’s first big match as a heel, I still don’t think Triple H wants Aleister Black losing any matches before he gets another shot at Ciampa. Black vs Ciampa should main event the next Takeover. What will likely happen not too much longer after Takeover, is Ciampa and Gargano will re-align officially. In fact, we could see the former tag partners start to work together again on Saturday against their respective opponents. (Prediction: Aleister Black)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Johnny Gargano
Tommaso Ciampa vs. Velveteen Dream (NXT World Title)
Andrew: Might be the funniest match on the card and with the title being on the line, expect for them to go 20 minutes if not longer as they should have enough time to tell a compelling story. I don’t see it being Dream’s time to win the title here as Ciampa has only had the title a few months and this is his real first test outside of working with Gargano. Dream’s character also isn’t one that needs a title to get over. Ciampa is better off as being that heel on top of the mountain in order to gain more heat. (Prediction: Tommaso Ciampa)
Jeff: Good Lord, this is like Sophie’s choice, isn’t it? Arguably the best heel in the company vs arguably the best performer in the company and EACH OF THOSE TITLES COULD APPLY TO EITHER COMPETITOR!!! if this isn’t the Match of the Year, I’ll eat Ian Carey’s hat. Both men deserve the title. Both are incredible performers and wrestlers. While I would like nothing more than to see the title draped over the shoulder of the Dream, I think that Ciampa will retain here. Unless they are planning an Evil DIY reunion, Ciampa and Gargano still have one more good story to tell and the Wrestlemania Takeover could be a great place to do that. (Prediction: Tommaso Ciampa)
Ian: Ciampa is likely going to retain “goldie” in his title defense against Velveteen Dream here. As much as I’d like to predict the 23-year-old Dream will win the title, it feels as though Ciampa is going to hold that thing for a while longer still. Dream defeated EC3 at the last Takeover event and has generally been kept strong in 2018 but it doesn’t feel as though he’s hot enough right now to put the title on. Ciampa, on the other hand, is still one of the hottest heels in the business. (Prediction: Tommaso Ciampa)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Tommaso Ciampa
What do the experts think is going to happen on Saturday evening? Check out the online NXT TakeOver: WarGames II betting odds. What do you think of the above NXT TakeOver: WarGames II predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section below, and make sure to join us here this Saturday for live play-by-play results coverage of the show.
Following a considerable amount of controversy that was covered extensively by mainstream media during the build-up, WWE Crown Jewel will go down as advertised this Friday from King Saud University Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The show features talent from both the RAW and SmackDown Live brands, as well as the first-ever “WWE World Cup” tournament and in-ring return of WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels. The one thing the show will not feature, at least inside the squared circle, is any women’s matches.
The main event for Friday’s big event is Brock Lesnar vs. Braun Strowman for the vacant WWE Universal Championship. The title was put up for grabs after Roman Reigns was forced to relinquish it on RAW following his leukemia announcement. In another featured match, D-Generation X (Triple H & Shawn Michaels) will team up to take on The Brothers Of Destruction (The Undertaker & Kane) in tag-team action in what will be HBK’s first match since retiring back in 2010. The WWE Championship will also be on-the-line as A.J. Styles defends against Samoa Joe yet again after Daniel Bryan was pulled from the show.
Also on the show this Friday will be The Bar defending their SmackDown Tag-Team Championships against The New Day and the first-ever “WWE World Cup” one-night, eight-man tournament will play out “to determine the best in the world.” The participants in the tournament are Rey Mysterio, Randy Orton, Jeff Hardy, The Miz, Kurt Angle, Dolph Ziggler, Seth Rollins and Bobby Lashley. Lashley was a late addition after the originally scheduled John Cena was pulled from the event.
SEScoops.com writers Andrew Ravens, Ian Carey and Lesly Sincere have prepared their predictions for each of the matches scheduled for Friday’s big event, which airs live via pay-per-view and on the WWE Network. Without further adieu, here are the SEScoops.com staff predictions for WWE Crown Jewel 2018.
Rey Mysterio vs. Randy Orton (World Cup Quarterfinal)
Andrew Ravens: Although WWE has kept Mysterio strong since making his return, I feel that they believe with Orton getting a cheap victory here, it can protect Mysterio while taking the loss. Also, this could lead to a program after this show, which could be quite fun. (Prediction: Randy Orton)
Ian Carey: Rey Mysterio’s return to WWE isn’t even a month old. That’s too soon to have him lose on a PPV, even this one. I expect Orton to lose via pinning combination, DQ, or count-out then continue the attack on Rey after the match, softening him up for the second round. (Prediction: Rey Mysterio)
Lesly Sincere I’ll say Rey will take this win. Him coming back and just to loose to Orton in the quarterfinals will make him look bad. (Prediction: Rey Mysterio)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Rey Mysterio
Jeff Hardy vs. The Miz (World Cup Quarterfinal)
Andrew: This could be a really fun match. Since making the move to SmackDown Live, WWE has pushed Hardy as one of the top stars on the blue brand. Miz doesn’t need a win here and really should see Hardy winning. He’s a fan favorite, and with him advancing to face Orton, it plays a factor in their history. (Prediction: Jeff Hardy)
Ian: The Miz was supposed to get the winner between AJ Styles and Daniel Bryan. Bryan not traveling to Saudi Arabia has led to Samoa Joe getting that spot for now. Miz should get that spot later, however, meaning he doesn’t need to win this tournament. I expect Jeff Hardy to pick up the win here. (Prediction: Jeff Hardy)
Lesly: The Miz will most likely take the win. I see the Smackdown side of the bracket has one face and one heel making it to the next round of the tournament. (Prediction: The Miz)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Jeff Hardy
Kurt Angle vs. Dolph Ziggler (World Cup Quarterfinal)
Andrew: I don’t see Angle working two matches in this tournament at this stage in the game of his pro wrestling career. Outside of doing a few spots in a battle royal a few weeks ago, he hasn’t worked a full match since April. A fun match with Ziggler is advancing. (Prediction: Dolph Ziggler)
Ian: Expect a match heavy on the technical side as two Olympic style wrestlers go at it here in a part of the world which values the sport. Angle is the bigger star, however, and this is a star-driven event. (Prediction: Kurt Angle)
Lesly: As much as I like Kurt Angle, I feel this is a match to put over Ziggler and giving a win over Angle will help elevate him to the main card status. (Prediction: Dolph Ziggler)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Dolph Ziggler
Seth Rollins vs. Bobby Lashley (World Cup Quarterfinal)
Andrew: An interesting dynamic with the styles of these two performers. Lashley has a new lease on his career once being turned heel and being managed by Lio Rush. Despite this, Rollins is being positioned as one of the top guys on the red brand. Personally, I see him winning the whole tournament. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)
Ian: While WWE has Rollins positioned as the bigger star, I think Lashley gets the win here. Rollins’ next few months will be devoted to his feud with Ambrose. He can lose here. Lashley has lost two weeks in a row to Finn Balor, he really shouldn’t lose. (Prediction: Bobby Lashley)
Lesly: Last minute addition of Bobby Lashley sounds cool on paper but its really a match to help put Rollins over and have him relive his feud with Ziggler from this past Summer. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Seth Rollins
The Bar (c) vs. The New Day (SmackDown Tag-Team Titles)
Andrew: WWE just did a title change involving these teams on SmackDown 1000. Although you can never rule out what WWE can and can’t do with their booking because it’s all over the place, I think having The New Day reclaim the titles this early would be a mistake. Plus, you can still extend this program to Survivor Series if The Bar retains, which I think they will. (Prediction: The Bar)
Ian: With Big Show now rounding out their trio, it’s unlikely much will stop the Bar for awhile. Not until a new tag-team comes along which fans get behind. (Prediction: The Bar)
Lesly: In Australia I said The Bar was going to win, but they didn’t till that following Smackdown. I’m going with The Bar again, just because it doesn’t make sense to play hot potato with the tag titles. (Prediction: The Bar)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, The Bar
A.J. Styles (c) vs. Samoa Joe (WWE Title)
Andrew: This is really a bridge gap match as the only reason it’s taking place is due to Daniel Bryan not wanting to work the show. Joe and Styles have had months to play out their program. This is a one-off match with what I assume Bryan and Styles are battling it out going forward. Styles and Joe have good chemistry, so I expect a good match. (Prediction: A.J. Styles)
Ian: Have to go with AJ Styles here who will likely become the first person since CM Punk to wear the WWE Championship for longer than a year. I don’t expect him to lose it until at least WrestleMania. (Prediction: A.J. Styles)
Lesly: Styles vs. Joe III. As I predicted, Joe would get injured following the Australia PPV. He must be well enough to compete for Crown Jewl, but him winning the title isn’t happening. Too risky. Styles for the win. (Prediction: A.J. Styles)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, A.J. Styles
Mysterio/Orton Winner vs. Hardy/Miz Winner (World Cup Semifinal)
Andrew: I am projecting Orton and Hardy advancing to this match. With that said, this plays right back into their program that ended at the Hell in a Cell PPV. Either guy winning here makes sense, but if WWE wants a classic heel vs. face dynamic, then Orton has to go over here. It doesn’t hurt Hardy to lose especially if Orton cheats. (Prediction: Randy Orton)
Ian: I have this as being Rey Mysterio vs Jeff Hardy. Mysterio is the star they are looking to push more so I expect him to win and make it to the finals. (Prediction: Rey Mysterio)
Lesly: Mysterio vs Miz for Mysterio to take the win and make it to the finals. (Prediction: Rey Mysterio)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Rey Mysterio
Angle/Ziggler Winner vs. Rollins/Lashley Winner (World Cup Semifinal)
Andrew: I am projecting Ziggler and Rollins advancing to this match. As a result, this could be one of the better matches on the card should WWE give them some time. Rollins moves past Ziggler, and it doesn’t hurt Ziggler because of the position that WWE has put Rollins in over the past few months. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)
Ian: I have this as being Kurt Angle vs Bobby Lashley. Angle is the bigger star on a show which is all about star-power. That’s why I think he goes to the finals to take on Rey Mysterio. (Prediction: Kurt Angle)
Lesly: Ziggler vs Rollins for Rollins to get over and make it to the finals. Mysterio vs Rollins with a 5 star performance but Rollins will win in the end. To help elevate him as the future face of the company. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Seth Rollins
D-Generation X vs. The Brothers Of Destruction
Andrew: It makes no sense to bring Michaels out of retirement just for him to lose. Although, you could make the argument that since Triple H beat Taker at Super Show-Down then Taker and Kane should get their revenge with a win here. Some might be excited to see Michaels work another match no matter what the match is. However, it’s disappointing to see him work a tag team match in his comeback contest. With that said, just like with Super Show-Down, I see this leading to something bigger. Maybe a Michaels vs. Taker match at WrestleMania 35? Sure does seem like it. Michaels and Triple H once again win another battle but not the war in the end. (Prediction: D-Generation X)
Ian: HBK’s return requires an HBK victory. I’m expecting the balder version of Shawn Michaels to pick up the win with Sweet Chin Music to send the fans home happy. (Prediction: D-Generation X)
Lesly: HHH won the last battle. Let’s give the win the Taker and Kane just because Taker lost the last match. (Prediction: D-Generation X)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, D-Generation X
World Cup Tournament Finals
Andrew: With me projecting that Seth Rollins and Randy Orton making it to the finals, it’s a toss-up. The betting odds released for this tournament have Rollins winning, which is something I agree with as he’s known as the workhorse for the company and always putting together great matches. With them working so much in one night, I don’t have expectations that it will be as a good as their WrestleMania 31 match back in 2015, but a solid compelling contest that Rollins eeks out to win. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)
Ian: I’ve got Kurt Angle and Rey Mysterio advancing to the finals. This is tough but I think Angle is going to get the win and main event a show against Braun Strowman before the end of the year. (Prediction: Kurt Angle)
Lesly: I’m going with my prediction of Mysterio vs Rollins. Both superstars will give a 5-star performance but Rollins will win in the end. In order to help elevate him as the future face of the company. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Seth Rollins
Brock Lesnar vs. Braun Strowman (WWE Universal Title)
Andrew: This is another compelling outcome that may have people split as to who will win this match. Yes, Lesnar is going back to the UFC and only working this show due to the big bucks he’s expected to make. However, with Roman Reigns no longer being the guy, history shows that WWE goes back to Lesnar as the top champion on RAW in need. This could be the case, but I see Strowman winning here. Let him have his big babyface run as champion that could lead to another encounter with Lesnar down the road. (Prediction: Braun Strowman)
Ian: I think Braun Strowman is the new face of WWE with Roman Reigns out for awhile. I expect him to beat Brock and for the commentators to act as though it is the start of a new era in WWE. It will be Strowman’s second big win in the country after having won the Greatest Royal Rumble match earlier this year. (Prediction: Braun Strowman)
Lesly: Hard to call this one without Reigns. I’ll say Strowman just so WWE can have an over superstar that can appear every week. (Prediction: Braun Strowman)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Braun Strowman
What do the experts think is going to happen on Friday? Check out the official WWE Crown Jewel betting odds. What do you think of the above WWE Crown Jewel predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section below, and make sure to join us here at SEScoops.com on Friday for live play-by-play results coverage of the show!
WWE Evolution takes place on Sunday evening from Uniondale, New York at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. WWE makes history with their first-ever pay-per-view event consisting solely of women’s matches. The card is stacked from top-to-bottom with multiple world championship matches featuring talent from RAW, SmackDown Live, NXT and the NXT U.K. brands, as well as returning legends, and the finals of the 2018 Mae Young Classic tournament.
The main event for Sunday night’s big event is Ronda Rousey vs. Nikki Bella for the RAW Women’s Championship in a grudge match after Nikki turned heel and attacked Rousey with her twin sister, setting up a rivalry between the two, which spread to social media leading up to this weekend’s historic event.
Also on the show this Sunday night is Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte Flair in a Last Woman Standing match for the SmackDown Live Women’s Championship, Kairi Sane vs. Shayna Baszler for the NXT Women’s Championship and Io Shirai vs. Toni Storm in the finals of this year’s Mae Young Classic tournament. The NXT U.K. Women’s Championship held by Rhea Ripley is expected to be defended on the show as well, however an opponent has yet to be officially announced by WWE.
Additional matches scheduled for WWE’s first-ever all-women’s PPV include Sasha Banks, Bayley and Natalya vs. The Riott Squad, Trish Stratus and Lita vs. Mickie James and Alexa Bliss and a Women’s Battle Royal that includes Torrie Wilson, Ivory, Molly Holly, Kelly Kelly, Alunda Blayze and others for a future shot at the women’s championship.
SEScoops staff writers Ian Carey, Andrew Ravens and Jeff Moss have prepared their predictions for each of the matches scheduled for Sunday night’s big event, which airs live via pay-per-view and on the WWE Network. Without further adieu, here are the SEScoops.com staff predictions for WWE Evolution 2018.
Sasha Banks, Bayley & Natalya vs. The Riott Squad
Ian Carey: I’m going to take the Riott Squad here to pick up a surprise victory. The punk-rock trio could use a win after taking losses to the Bellas and Rousey recently. This match could also be used as a way to build a division for eventual tag-team titles. (Prediction: The Riott Squad)
Andrew Ravens: This is a nothing match and more or less just filler and getting names on the show as that is WWE’s goal. It wouldn’t surprise me to see the heels go over here but with this event supposed to be a feel-good moment, I have the babyfaces winning. (Prediction: Sasha Banks, Bayley & Natalya)
Jeff Moss: I’ll lay this out right from the jump: I’ve been a Ruby Riott homer from day one. Under her leadership, I’ve even warmed to Sarah Logan and Liv Morgan, which I did not see coming. Bayley and Banks and (Googles match) Natalya (Sure?, why not) have all got classic matches under their belts, but the fire is in the Riott Squad. Since there’s virtually no story behind this match aside from “The Battle Royal was full” I’m going to go with Ruby & co. (Prediction: The Riott Squad)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, The Riott Squad
Women’s Battle Royal For Title Shot
Ian: While I’d love to see Sunny make a triumphant return to WWE here, she’s likely used up all her goodwill with the company at this point. I’m expecting Asuka to take the win here. She seems to be the only competitor with a realistic shot at challenging for either women’s world title. (Prediction: Asuka)
Andrew: WWE is attempting to put a lot of focus on this match even though it’s not a huge part of the build for this show. Yes, there are a lot of names competing with stars from today to the past. I doubt that any legend would win here just like they had the same chances back in January during the Royal Rumble match. To me, it appears the same mindset of oddsmakers, there are a handful of names that have a good chance to win. I have it coming down Naomi and Ember Moon with Naomi winning in order to challenge Becky Lynch at a later date. (Prediction: Naomi)
Jeff: Woof. I am pretty tired of “Everybody into the pool” Battle Royals, but I’m also not so big of a jerk that I would deny what it would mean to these women to at least have an appearance on an event like this. That said, I do find it strange that at Evolution, a historic event celebrating the Women’s Revolution in wrestling, we have a match featuring several people that Women’s Wrestling has evolved from. Including “Divas Era” talent in the same ring as the women who’ve worked so hard to move past that era seems like a bit of a misstep, but it’s pretty much the only one at Evolution, so I can give it a pass. There’s a few win-deserving women in the match (including Naomi who never got her Title Match from the last Battle Royal) but I’m pulling for Asuka here so she can remind people why she’s as great as she is. (Prediction: Asuka)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Asuka
Trish Stratus & Lita vs. Mickie James & Alexa Bliss
Ian: I’ll go one step further and predict that Stratus pins Mickie James to end the match. This will be a short match as Bliss is working injured and Lita and Trish have both been away from the ring for awhile. The legends will get their feel-good moment and that’ll be that. (Prediction: Trish Stratus & Lita)
Andrew: Might be the easiest pick of the card as I have Stratus and Lita going over here. Both sides have gotten their shots in during the build-up of this program. If WWE wants to put the younger talents over here, I have no problem with that. However, it makes sense to let the young lions have a good performance but with the veterans going over in the end. (Prediction: Trish Stratus & Lita)
Jeff: Unlike the resurrection of DX or the Bros of Dist. I’m actually excited to see what these legends can do. Last we saw of both of them, they seemed to be in pretty decent shape and able to go. That said, you don’t bring back Lita and Trish just to have them get stomped on by the likes of Mickie James and a slightly-dazed Alexa Bliss. What I’d really like to see out of this match, since apparently Trish and Lita are sticking around for a bit, is the beginning steps on the road to Women’s Tag titles. That’d give a lot of the women not in the Title picture something to fight for and present a new dynamic we haven’t seen in the WWE/F since the golden days of 1989. Anyways, Trish and Lita Twist and Stratusfy their way to victory here. (Prediction: Trish Stratus & Lita)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Trish Stratus & Lita
Io Shirai vs. Toni Storm (Mae Young Classic Finals)
Ian: I’d really like to write I’m not sure on this one. If I have to guess (and I do) I’m going to say Toni Storm. Let’s face it, this match was supposed to be won by Tegan Nox but she’s not here. Storm seems like the more likely winner and then I think they could move her into a rivalry with Ripley on the NXT UK brand. I wouldn’t be surprised at all if Shirai won though. (Prediction: Toni Storm)
Andrew: This match will likely have high expectations going into it due to the match quality that these two female stars have for great in-ring work. I see WWE signing both stars after this show and well deserved. This is really a toss-up for who will win this contest. Storm has a good following with the hardcore fans which I see being in her favor and winning this match. (Prediction: Toni Storm)
Jeff: This year’s MYC has been a great tournament, with lots of story and motivation beyond “we are wrestlers and would like to win.” In terms of the audience, this is an absolutely win-win. Storm and Shirai are going to put on a hell of a match and I would love to see either one of them getting a shot at the NXT Women’s Title at Takeover: War Games. But, the point of these predictions isn’t just to say “Hey, that’ll be great” it’s to pick a winner, so I’m going to go with Toni Storm on this one. (Prediction: Toni Storm)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Toni Storm
Kairi Sane (c) vs. Shayna Baszler (NXT Women’s Title)
Ian: I believe Baszler is going to take this one. Her bully persona on NXT has become one of the most talked about acts on the show this last year. Sane is better at chasing the title and Baszler is better at holding onto it, so I expect a title change here. (Prediction: Shayna Baszler)
Andrew: Historically, Triple H likes to have champions in NXT have long title reigns, and Kairi Sane is no different. Basic wrestling 101 with the booking of Sane as the underdog fighting her way to the top. Baszler has been one of the best heels in NXT since she made her debut and has been a great opponent for trying to get Sane over. In the end, this one might steal the show. (Prediction: Kairi Sane)
Jeff: Easily match of the night for me. These two are so wonderfully over-the-top, their characters almost seem like throwbacks. A Pirate Princess with a killer elbow vs a Psychopath with an arm-breaking fetish? Yes please! It doesn’t hurt that these two are so damn good in the ring too. Sane has proven herself worth of the top spot over and over and Baszler is an amazing heel, probably the best in the company, non-Tomasso Chiampa Division. I’d love to see her arrive on the main roster sooner than later, so I’m pulling for Sane in this one. (Prediction: Kairi Sane)
CONSENSUS: 2-1, Kairi Sane
Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte (Last Woman Standing For SD! Women’s Title)
Ian: Becky has become too important to have her lose here. There are plenty of ways to have Becky win and Charlotte still look strong in a Last Woman Standing match. I’d expect Becky to behave in much the same fashion as Tommaso Ciampa did in his recent Last Man Standing match. WWE may knock Charlotte down a peg or two while they deal with a lawsuit from her ex-husband regarding her “Second Nature” book. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)
Andrew: If WWE wanted to have a shocking finish in this contest then Flair would win the title here. However, I think the majority of the WWE fanbase is really enjoying this feud as well as Lynch being the heel champion. I see this being the blow-off of this feud with Lynch retaining to go onto face the next contender. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)
Jeff: To quote a certain young upstart from a few years ago, here’s what I’d like from this match: RUTHLESS. AGGRESSION. We know that both Becky and Charlotte are insanely athletic and probably the two best women wrestlers on the RAW or Smackdown Rosters right now. They also benefit from being the only match on the card with an actual story behind them. That said, throw it all out and just beat the crap out of each other. I want this to be a down and dirty fight, with Becky standing tall at the end. If Rousey/Charlotte is perhaps-maybe-possibly going to headline Wrestlemania, let’s take Charlotte down a peg and give her a great “climb back up the mountain” story to lead into it. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Becky Lynch
Ronda Rousey vs. Nikki Bella (RAW Women’s Title)
Ian: Ronda is going to tear through Nikki Bella in this match. Nikki will get some offense after Brie does something devious but then Ronda will recover, mount a comeback, and win. The events won’t take longer than 10 minutes but they will be the most exciting 10 minutes on the show. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
Andrew: Obviously, Rousey will retain her title here, and I doubt that many people will take Nikki to win here. The real intrigue is to see how long this match will go as WWE could keep it short. The build for this match has been a lot of fun, and until Rousey faces Charlotte Flair in the distance future, Rousey will remain champion. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
Jeff: Honestly, if this match lasts more than 5 minutes I’ll be shocked. Nikki should get a bit of offence in (most likely via Twin Magic or something of the like) but most of it should be Rousey mopping the floor with her and putting the final nail in the “Divas” coffin. Also, I’m hoping this will lead to less of the WWE retconning the Bella Twins as some kind of wresting pioneers, but hey, baby steps. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)
CONSENSUS: 3-0, Ronda Rousey
What do the experts think is going to happen on Sunday evening? Check out the official WWE Evolution betting odds. What do you think of the above WWE Evolution predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section below.