We are fast approaching Wrestle Kingdom, the biggest show of the year for New Japan Pro Wrestling. The card has been finalized for 13th installment of NJPW’s annual Tokyo Dome spectacular and it’s shaping up to be another can’t-miss event. New Japan has made a habit of locking in “Show Of The Year” honors just days into the new year, but the card for Wrestle Kingdom 13 might even exceed them all. If you’re not too familiar with New Japan Pro Wrestling, this is the perfect opportunity to take the plunge and we’re eager to explain why.

The Main Event

The marquee bout of Wrestle Kingdom 13 will see IWGP Heavyweight Champion Kenny Omega defend against New Japan’s ‘Ace’ Hiroshi Tanahashi. Tanahashi won this year’s G1 Climax tournament. This win gave him the opportunity to headline the Tokyo Dome show against the Champion Omega. This will be somewhat of a clash of ethos…Tanahashi represents the tradition and prestige of New Japan. Omega represents the present/future and influence of the West into the Japanese style.

This could be one of the last opportunities for Tanahashi to walk into a Tokyo Dome main event, so you can guarantee that he will leave everything in the ring. Omega is already fast becoming one of the best in-ring practitioners in New Japan’s history, his unbelievable run of bouts against Kazuchika Okada solidified his status as the ‘Western’ face of New Japan as they look to build on their expansion into the United States.

Other bouts on the show are potential show stealers, so there is no way that Omega and Tanahashi won’t walk into the main event and try and outdo all that comes before them.

Return of The GOAT

Omega’s fellow Canadian Chris Jericho will also be taking part on the card. Jericho’s ability to trick fans and make himself the talking point of pro wrestling in 2018 has been nothing short of impressive. Jericho is the company’s IWGP Intercontinental Champion, he will be defending against Tetsuya Naito. As the leader of Los Ingoebernables de Japon, Naito is the definition of cool in New Japan.

Naito has a strong technical ability and can change the pace and style of a match seemingly at will, Jericho is the master of the ‘less is more’ approach, especially at this point in his career. Whilst this may not be an in-ring clinic (no detriment to the two performers) this will be an element of the card where character and pacing/storytelling will be at the forefront.

The Dream Match

The match that has me extremely excited was only just recently confirmed. NEVER Openweight Champion Kota Ibushi will be defending against Will Ospreay. As the resident UK writer for this website I have been following Ospreay’s career for the best part of 5 years.

The ‘Aerial Assassin’ is one of the most exciting talents in the world and when you put him in the ring with a talent the caliber of Kota Ibushi you’re likely to get excellence. This is an opportunity for Ospreay to ‘move up’ and mix it with the Heavyweight Division in New Japan.

Ospreay has been one of the shining beacons of the Juniors over the past couple of years but his athletic abilities could translate extremely well to a different weight class, although the NEVER title is technically ‘openweight’ it has up to now been a heavyweight and ‘strong style’ flavored division.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFJ0a4RSswI

IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship

There’s also a IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship that catches the eye. Champion KUSHIDA will be defending against Taiji Ishimori. Ishimori joined the BULLET CLUB as the new Bone Soldier and has been flourishing in the Juniors ever since. Taiji had a very impressive showing in the Best of The Super Juniors 2018, losing only to Hiroshi Tanahashi in the final.

KUSHIDA is a name that you may be aware of, he is reportedly being looked at by WWE as a potential NXT signing…NXT overseer Triple H is supposedly a big fan of the Japanese star.

If this doesn’t convince you then check out the full card below:

• IWGP Heavyweight Championship Kenny Omega (c) vs Hiroshi Tanahashi
• IWGP Intercontinental Championship Chris Jericho (c) vs Tetsuya Naito
• Kazuchika Okada vs Jay White
• IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship KUSHIDA (c) vs Taiji Ishimori
• IWGP United States Championship Cody (c) vs Juice Robinson
• RevPro British Heavyweight Championship Tomohiro Ishii (c) vs Zack Sabre Jr.
• IWGP Tag Team Championships Guerrillas of Destiny (c) vs The Young Bucks vs. EVIL and SANADA
• IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championships Yoshinobu Kanemaru and El Desperado (c) vs Roppongi 3K vs BUSHI and Shingo Takagi
• IWGP NEVER Openweight Championship Kota Ibushi (c) vs Will Ospreay
• WrestleKingdom 13 Pre-Show Gauntlet Match to become Number One Contender for the NEVER Six-Man Titles

You can watch the show via FITE TV or NJPWWorld. If you have any questions about New Japan just hit us up in the comments

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.

Los Angeles better brace itself. #NXTTakeOver: War Games. pic.twitter.com/LgGLjC7lf0

— WWE Network (@WWENetwork) November 15, 2018

Welcome back to The 3 Count. Last week I discussed Tetsuya Naito and the two ‘mystery men’ that WWE were reportedly looking to sign from NJPW. Every week I will be looking at the hot topic in pro wrestling, this could be WWE or otherwise. This week’s topic should really come as no surprise…it’s The Man, Becky Lynch.

Straight Fire

Becky refers to herself as ‘straight fire,’ now she appears to be setting the entire company on fire. Last night’s RAW ended with the Irish Lass-kicker standing with a bloody nose goading Ronda Rousey. In terms of anti-hero characters they don’t come with much more hype than Becky has right now.

What led to Becky becoming this phenomenon? The fans always had a soft spot for the Smackdown Live Women’s Champion. Live audiences giving her a fair reception on shows with almost Dean Ambrose in 2014 perfunctory cheers and applause.

The Underdog

Something that WWE and wrestling fans have in common is the lure of the underdog. We saw this in the build to WrestleMania 30, with Daniel Bryan finally overcoming the odds and main eventing the biggest spectacle in sports entertainment. Could anyone have predicted that Bryan Danielson of ROH fame would even get to WrestleMania? Could anyone have guessed that he would main event the thing? If you would have told me this in 2005 I would’ve laughed you out of the room. Another thing that wrestling fans seem to enjoy is a good anti-hero, the biggest can be seen referenced in the headline of this article.

When WWE decided to have Becky Lynch ‘turn’ on her friend Charlotte Flair and engage in a feud it is doubtful that they would’ve been building to Lynch vs Ronda Rousey at Survivor Series next Sunday, at least in they way it turned out. When Charlotte stole the win over Carmella at Summerslam the seeds were sown for the feud, but WWE went into this thinking that Flair was going to be the fan favourite…how wrong they were.

Becky Did Nothing Wrong

With WWE pushing Becky Lynch as the antagonist they missed a vital ingredient…Lynch didn’t actually do anything wrong. Fast forward to today and the more that WWE attempted to push Lynch as a vicious heel the more that the audience where drawn to her and got behind the Irish Superstar. Last night’s appearance on RAW solidified Lynch as the ultimate anti-hero, the symbol of a bloodied Lass-kicker in her Smackdown Live shirt on RAW oozed attitude…but let’s not pretend that Becky is just an Austin clone or re-hash. ‘The Man’ Becky Lynch is the perfect attitude and character for 2018’s WWE.

The question is, were WWE extremely tone deaf when it came to the way Lynch was portrayed? Or was this the plan all along, to make the Survivor Series bout a de-facto face vs face match against Rousey? The optimist in me hopes that they had at least somewhat of an idea of Lynch’s popularity, the realist knows that they butchered the push and got extremely lucky.

WWE is now in a very delicate position with Becky. How many times have we seen something completely organic and cool be ruined by the company when they decide to get behind it? Fandangoing, Zack Ryder, Ryback (yes, really)…we all have our own examples. The key here is to just let Becky be Becky and let her natural charisma and vision drive this push, but again the realist in me knows they’ll likely choke all the fun out of it.

How do you think WWE should book Becky Lynch going forward? 

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.

WWE Super Show-Down takes place on Saturday morning from Melbourne, Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The card for the first-ever event in Super Show-Down chronology is loaded from top-to-bottom with big matches featuring the best talents from RAW and SmackDown Live.

The main event for Saturday morning’s big event is The Undertaker vs. Triple H in a match that WWE is billing as the “Last Time Ever” these two wrestling legends will meet inside the squared circle. Other headline bouts include John Cena and Bobby Lashley teaming up to take on Kevin Owens and Elias in tag-team action, Daniel Bryan and The Miz will square off to determine the next challenger to the WWE Championship, The Shield will take on the trio of Braun Strowman, Dolph Ziggler and Drew McIntyre in a men’s six-man tag-team bout, while RAW Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey teams up with The Bella Twins to take on The Riott Squad in six-woman tag-team action. Additionally, A.J. Styles will defend his WWE Championship against Samoa Joe again, however this time their match will be contested under No Disqualification and No Count-Out rules.

SEScoops staff writers Ian Carey, Andrew Ravens and Lesly Sincere have prepared their predictions for each of the matches scheduled for Saturday morning’s big event, which kicks off at 5am EST. on the WWE Network. Without further adieu, here are our predictions for WWE Super Show-Down.

SmackDown Women’s Championship: Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte Flair

Ian Carey: This one all depends on how off-track the company went to give Lynch the title in the first place. The “rumors and innuendo” as Conrad Thompson puts it are stating Vince McMahon sees Lynch as someone who has taken the ball and run with it. If that’s the case, I expect Vince to let her keep running with it. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)

Andrew Ravens: There’s really no reason for Flair to win the title back and even betting odds show that as it makes no sense. Lynch has been doing a great job in this feud and as a heel. Best work in her career on the main roster by a longshot. Lynch retains with this program finishing up at Evolution next month. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)

Lesly Sincere: This might be the match that might steal the show. Just like Asuka vs. Charlotte at WM 34 this match has a grand stage feel where the story is actually interesting. Taking off the strap off of Becky is too early and she’s too hot. I call Becky on this one. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, BECKY LYNCH

Asuka & Naomi vs. The Ilconics

Ian: As this isn’t a key match in any major storyline, it’s a chance to let the Iiconics get a win in Australia. It’ll be good for WWE’s popularity there, especially considering they made the bizarre decision to cut Tenille Dashwood last year. (Prediction: The Ilconics)

Andrew: If this was in any other country but Australia, I would have Asuka and Naomi win here, but it’s not. Yes, WWE does handle hometown stars in a weird way by having them historically lose, but this is a different situation. Asuka and Naomi have been booked as comedy figures as of late. With that being said, it doesn’t hurt them to lose. (Prediction: The Ilconics)

Lesly: Sort of a throw away in my opinion. Both Asuka and Naomi weren’t doing anything on Smackdown so they paired them up to beat the IIconics. I’ll say Asuka and Naomi just so that the faces have a win that day. (Prediction: Asuka & Naomi)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, THE ILCONICS

SmackDown Tag-Team Championship: The New Day vs. The Bar

Ian: I don’t see the Bar having enough hype around them right now to get a tag-team title run out of it. New Day should retain here. (Prediction: The New Day)

Andrew: This should be a pretty good match as these teams have worked with each other quite a bit in recent years. Although it’s a nice change to see WWE using Cesaro and Sheamus on TV once again after being moved to SmackDown earlier this year, it makes no sense to have New Day drop the straps here as they are an entertaining group that has earned a lengthy title reign. (Prediction: The New Day)

Lesly: With Kofi Kingston record-breaking tag team title record in the books, I see The Bar taking the titles off New Day just because they want to keep this tag team feud going until Eric Rowan returns. (Prediction: The Bar)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, THE NEW DAY

WWE Cruiserweight Championship: Cedric Alexander vs. Buddy Murphy

Ian: Last time these two met was in Cedric Alexander’s hometown. Alexander successfully defended in his Cruiserweight Championship against Murphy that night but I’m predicting things go very different in Murphy’s hometown of Melbourne this weekend. Murphy gets the win and the rubber match between the two takes place Survivor Series or Crown Jewel. (Prediction: Buddy Murphy)

Andrew: I can’t say enough good things with not only how WWE has handled booking him but the job that Alexander has done as champ. The fans take him seriously as the champion even though they may not take the brand as a top show. Murphy is also someone who has reinvented himself on this show. Although Alexander has held the title for the majority of this year, I don’t see a reason to take the strap off of him at this stage unless they just want a surprise and have a hometown star win. (Prediction: Cedric Alexander)

Lesly: According to reports, Cedric Alexander is undefeated this year. Let’s keep this streak alive and have him win at the Super Show-Down. (Prediction: Cedric Alexander)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, CEDRIC ALEXANDER

WWE Championship: A.J. Styles vs. Samoa Joe (No DQ, No Count-Out)

Ian: Joe might be more popular than you think here. Here’s a somewhat interesting fact. Joe is the second wrestler with his name to have a big match in the area. Joseph Afamasaga wrestled as “Samoan Joe” in Australia throughout the 70s and 80s. Anyway, I don’t think Samoa Joe will have much luck on Saturday. If Styles was going to lose the belt between now and the build to next WrestleMania, he would have lost it to Nakamura. (Prediction: A.J. Styles)

Andrew: Samoa Joe wins his first WWE Title. Okay, so maybe a little more than just that. So, it’s long overdue. Styles has had a great run as WWE Champion but it’s time for a change, and it happens here. Joe has been a good heel and counterpart for the babyface in Styles. He has gotten into the head of the champ, and with that, he wins his first WWE Title here. (Prediction: Samoa Joe)

Lesly: Kind o a tough choice. While I want Joe to win to get a new face for the championship, I think WWE’s safe bet is going with A.J. Styles. Joe has been hurt already and missed two WrestleMania’s. Making him champ and running the vigorous champion schedule (I.E, morning talk shows, interviews, appearances) may be too much for the guy and cause him to get injured again. A.J. for the win I guess. (Prediction: A.J. Styles)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, A.J. STYLES

Ronda Rousey & The Bella Twins vs. The Riott Squad

Ian: The Riott Squad will win and this will cause a rift between Rousey and the Bellas, leading to Nikki vs Ronda at Evolution. (Prediction: The Riott Squad)

Andrew: The easiest pick of the whole card. Not only do you have Rousey here who will obviously win every match she’s involved in up to the point that WWE decides to have her suffer her first loss, which I hope she handles better than she did in the UFC. You also have The Bellas, and with WWE hinting at a Nikki vs. Rousey match at a later date, the babyfaces go over. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey & The Bella Twins)

Lesly: The Faces win. Enough said. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey & The Bella Twins)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, RONDA ROUSEY & THE BELLA TWINS

The Shield vs. Braun Strowman, Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre

Ian: At some point, a member of the Shield is turning on the other two. It won’t be Roman and it’s already been Rollins, so it will be Dean Ambrose. They’ve built up the idea that he will turn so much, however, that it would seem almost too easy for them to go that route. I don’t expect the Shield to breakup for at least another few months. They should get the win here but there could also be some dissension teased. (Prediction: The Shield)

Andrew: This has been the top feud on the RAW brand for several weeks now with the hope that it’s the blow-off match involving all of these superstars. Although I could see WWE going for a shocking finish with having the heels go over, Roman Reigns is involved and by now, we should all know that Vince McMahon likes to keep him strong. (Prediction: The Shield)

Lesly: Hard to call this one too. We could see Dean Ambrose turn on the Shield and Strowman’s team win, but McIntryre could turn on his teammates and cause them to lose. Since we already saw a betrayal among The Shield once already, I say that the Shield wins and McIntyre breaks off from Ziggler and Strowman begins his single career on Raw. (Prediction: The Shield)

CONSENSUS: 3-0, The Shield

No. 1 Contender: The Miz vs. Daniel Bryan

Ian: Daniel Bryan has to win this match. He lost at Summerslam and it would set up a truly epic AJ Styles vs Daniel Bryan WWE Championship match. We could get that match in Saudi Arabia next month. Expect Maryse and Brie to get involved because they certainly won’t be able to at Crown Jewel. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan)

Andrew: An interesting match that really could see either guy win and it makes sense. Although I don’t see this being the final match between these two as there is more story to tell. I have to wonder what does Bryan winning this match do anything for him? In this story, Bryan needs someone to chase and that’s The Miz. Thus, Miz cheats his way to victory. (Prediction: The Miz)

Lesly: Miz is busy with reality T.V. and other projects and Bryan is on constant watch for concussions. I’ll say Bryan wins this match but gets screwed by The Miz in a title bout with A.J. Styles in the near future. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, DANIEL BRYAN

John Cena & Bobby Lashley vs. Kevin Owens & Elias

Ian: Bobby Lashley hasn’t gone heel yet but he does seem to have hired a heel manager. This sends the message to me that Lashley will be going heel along with him and likely taking out John Cena in the process. I’m predicting KO and Elias get the win here, leading to a Cena vs Lashley w/ Lio Rush program. (Prediction: Kevin Owens & Elias)

Andrew: This is a match that really doesn’t mean anything for either the winners or losers here. With Cena only being on a part-time schedule, he has to go over right? There is nothing for him to revenge at least this stage of his career unless booked for other events, which he’s not. Plus, a loss here doesn’t hurt Owens or Elias. Heck, WWE probably won’t even mention it on TV going forward. Cena and Lashley win. (Prediction: John Cena & Bobby Lashley)

Lesly: John Cena returning back on WWE T.V.? Of course he and Lashley have to win. CAUSE HIS NAME IS JOHN CENA!!! (Prediction: John Cena & Bobby Lashley)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, JOHN CENA & BOBBY LASHLEY

Last Time Ever: The Undertaker (w/ Kane) vs. Triple H (w/ HBK)

Ian: The Undertaker should take the win here to send the 70,000 plus fans home happy. In the process, however, something could occur which encourages Shawn Michaels to come out of retirement. (Prediction: The Undertaker)

Andrew: Although they haven’t wrestled each other in years, the in-ring action won’t be great but the sociology of this contest will be on a different level. Especially since WWE decided to have Kane and Shawn Michaels at ringside. This story tells a different tale as it doesn’t really matter who wins the match but rather what comes after it considering the rumors that have been going around online. Taker wins this match but there is more to come from these four legends. (Prediction: The Undertaker)

Lesly: Another hard one. If it were just Taker and HHH it would be easier to predict but I don’t think there’s going to be a clean finish here. I say Shawn screws Undertaker, causing HHH to win. That way we can have a Taker and Shawn match in the future. (Prediction: Triple H)

CONSENSUS: 2-1, THE UNDERTAKER

What do the experts think is going to happen on Saturday morning? Check out the official WWE Super Show-Down betting odds. What do you think of the above WWE Super Show-Down predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section below.

WWE Hell In A Cell takes place this Sunday night from San Antonio, Texas at the AT&T Center. The card for the tenth event under the Hell In A Cell chronology is solid, with five title matches and two bouts to be contested inside WWE’s demonic structure.

The main event for Sunday’s PPV will see Roman Reigns and Braun Strowman battle in a Hell In A Cell match. The bout will see WWE Hall Of Famer Mick Foley serve as special guest referee, with the WWE Universal Championship on-the-line.

Additionally, Ronda Rousey will defend her RAW Women’s Championship against Alexa Bliss, A.J. Styles will face off against Samoa Joe in a rematch with the WWE Championship up for grabs and more.

SEScoops writers Brad Davis, Andrew Ravens, Jeff Moss and Ian Carey have prepared their predictions for each match scheduled for Sunday night’s big event. Without further adieu, here are our staff predictions for WWE Hell In A Cell.

SD! Tag-Team Champions The New Day vs. Rusev & Aiden English

Brad Davis: To be quite honest, I’m not really into this match. I will chalk it up to, New Day just got the belts and they’re not going to lose them just yet. New Day retains. (Prediction: The New Day)

Andrew Ravens: As much of fan favorites that Rusev and English are, I doubt that they win the titles here. New Day has been a consistent act for the WWE over the last few years, and typically, when they are champions, they hold the titles for an extended amount of time. Plus, they just won the titles a few weeks ago. Makes no sense for them to drop them here. New Day retains. (Prediction: The New Day)

Jeff Moss: Good lord this is a heart-stopper! Two of my favourite tag teams in WWE going head to head? Ic an’t see New Day losing those titles yet, so I’d look to them to retain, but man, I’ve been celebrating Rusev Day so long it’s almost become to commercialized and lost it’s true meaning! But I’m sure I can get it back. It’s sad, but with some many events (HIaC, Evolution, Supershowdown, Survivor Series) all back to back to back, it’s hard to see any big title changes happening at Hell in a Cell. (Prediction: The New Day)

Ian Carey: New Day will likely either win the Smackdown tag-team championships here or re-start their pending split and rivalry. Aiden English had been costing Rusev and Lana matches but has since gone on something of a hot streak. If his hot streak continues, expect Rusev Day to come out with the belts. I’m betting they lose, however, and Rusev once again grows frustrated with his ally. (Prediction: The New Day)

CONSENSUS: 4-0, The New Day

Randy Orton vs. Jeff Hardy (HIAC Match)

Brad: Jeff Hardy is finally getting the Hell In a Cell match he’s been talking about for the past few years. Randy Orton is a more-than-capable (but somewhat-vanilla) performer. I expect a passable match and at least one crazy bump from Brother Nero. (Prediction: Randy Orton)

Andrew: Hardy has been asking for this kind of match for years and his wish has been granted. This has been a top feud on the blue brand and WWE officials have really let Orton heel it up in a way that he hasn’t done in years, which always makes for entertaining TV. This will be the wildest HIAC match of the night due to Hardy having years of thinking about ways he can do crazy bumps. As a result, this will allow Orton to squeak out a win. (Prediction: Randy Orton)

Jeff: Oh, please don’t let this be the first line of Jeff Hardy’s Obituary. I could see him doing something really, really stupid here to cap off his career (or at least send him off TV for a while). It’s really strange in 2018 to be typing “Randy Orton vs Jeff Hardy in the cell worries me” but, dammit, it does. In terms of a winner, Hardy needs the redemption after months of sneak attacks and nut shots have left him lying. In terms of the match, I just hope no one dies. (Prediction: Jeff Hardy)

Ian: Two things could happen here: 1) Jeff Hardy wins after doing something amazing involving the cell – possibly a dive off the roof. Or 2) Orton wins after throwing Hardy off the cell or something similar. One way or the other, Hardy is going to do something Sunday that a 40-year-old beaten-up body should probably not go through. I’m putting my money on Hardy to win though. (Prediction: Jeff Hardy)

CONSENSUS: 2-2, TIE

SD! Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair vs. Becky Lynch

Brad: Becky Lynch’s character has finally gotten some attention over the past few weeks. It’s refreshing, but also somewhat depressing when you think about how badly Becky has been booked since becoming the first woman to hold the SmackDown Women’s Championship (remember that)? (Prediction: Charlotte Flair)

Andrew: You could make the argument that if WWE didn’t announce that they would be wrestling each other again at Super Show-Down then Lynch could be favored to win it here. However, they already made that match official. I see Flair snapping in this match and allowing Lynch to get into her head. Thus, Flair loses by DQ but retains her title at HIAC. Lynch wins the match and most likely gets the title next month at Super Show-Down. (Prediction: Becky Lynch)

Jeff: Why isn’t this match in a cell? Sasha Banks and Charlotte had a great match in there and Becky could deliver one that’s a step up. I’m all in on Evil Spurned Becky Lynch and while I’d like to see her get whats due her here, I can’t help but think that’s more of an Evolution event. Also, at heart, Becky is a good person, so will she have the guts to go full Ciampa on her friend? I don’t think so. Yet. (Prediction: Charlotte)

Ian: I’m not saying this is what they are doing but if you wanted to turn Becky Lynch into the next Daniel Bryan, you might decide to do exactly what WWE has done with her. Here me out on this one. Fans got behind Daniel Bryan because they respected him, wanted him to be champ, and WWE was pushing somebody else (Roman Reigns) down their throat. Similarly, fans respect Becky and want her to win the title but WWE is pushing Charlotte Flair down fans’ throats. One idea is that this would be harmful to Charlotte Flair’s babyface status but unlike with Roman Reigns, they will turn Charlotte Flair heel. In fact, she’ll go heel before WrestleMania next year when she possibly faces Ronda Rousey in the main event. I’m not saying they are doing this on purpose but a conspiracy theorist could claim they are pulling a worked-shoot booking angle here. I’m not saying they are doing it, I’m just saying it’s a possibility. Few can argue that how this has played out has done amazing things for Lynch’s popularity and relevance. Flair keeps the title Sunday, however, just like she will do all the way to WrestleMania. (Prediction: Charlotte Flair)

CONSENSUS: 3-1, Charlotte Flair

Daniel Bryan & Brie Bella vs. The Miz & Maryse

Brad: It’s pretty amazing how much mileage they can get out of this Bryan vs. Miz feud. The Miz got a cheap win over Bryan at SummerSlam. We know how WWE likes to book Bryan. I think he will win the feud, but they’re not done messing with him and putting heat on Miz (and Maryse). I predict Miz and Maryse wins after more underhanded tactics from the Hollywood couple. Something along the line of, Maryse pretends she’s hurt, Bryan tends to her, Miz capitalizes and the heels laugh at Bryan for being a good guy and letting his guard down. (Prediction: The Miz & Maryse)

Andrew: The energy from the crowd for this match will be off the charts. Based on the go-home edition for HIAC on SmackDown Live, it appears that The Miz and Maryse are going over as booking 101 says that whoever gets the upper hand on the last show before a PPV, typically loses. I have Miz and Maryse winning here with Bryan getting his hand raised next month at Super Show-Down. (Prediction: The Miz & Maryse)

Jeff: Daniel Bryan has re-signed with the WWE and while we are all relieved that Bryan is going to be safely housed in a WWE ring for the next little while instead of killing himself on the Indies, this mixed tag is better suited for the Mixed Match Challenge instead of a PPV event. Hopefully Miz and Bryan do most of the heavy lifting. While I’d rather see the Danielsons win so that Bryan can move into a title program, I’d say we’re in this feud until at least Survivor Series, so Miz & Mrs take this one, probably via the awesome shenanigans they are known for. (Prediction: The Miz & Maryse)

Ian: I’m predicting Daniel Bryan and Brie take this one. With the loss Bryan suffered at the hands of Miz at Summerslam, this feud could use a “feel good ending.” This is not a rivalry where the heels are going to come out victorious so expect Bryan and Brie to come out the winners even though the rivalry will likely continue into October. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan & Brie Bella)

CONSENSUS: 3-1, The Miz & Maryse

RAW Tag-Team Champions Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre vs. Seth Rollins & Dean Ambrose

Brad: Ziggler and McIntyre have been on to something lately. Ziggler has been spinning his wheels for years, but something about the alliance with big Drew is clicking. All four men can go and I think this match has the potential to be one of the better parts of the show. (Prediction: Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre)

Andrew: The winner of this match really doesn’t matter. They will have another match at Super Show-Down next month. I have Ziggler and McIntyre winning here by dirty heel tactics as WWE needs a balance in this feud if Reigns goes over Strowman later in the night. (Prediction: Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre)

Jeff: Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose winning here would mean the Shield has ALL the titles on RAW (except the Women’s Championship). Something I don’t remember happening since the days of HHH/Flair/Orton & Batista in Evolution (I might be wrong about that though). So, if they are planning a hard Shield run heading in to the Fall, that would be a cool way to do it. If they want to build up the, um, “Not-Shield” (is that what we’re calling Strowman, McIntyre and Ziggs?) then they should lose to the Damn Numbers Game, I’m thinking. What will happen? Probably the latter. By the way, how is this team not called Double D’s? (Prediction: Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre)

Ian: I see Rollins and Ambrose winning the titles here and the Shield briefly holding the Universal and tag titles on Raw. I then expect Ziggler and McIntyre to play a role in costing Roman the Universal title, however. (Prediction: Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre)

CONSENSUS: 4-0, Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre

WWE Champion A.J. Styles vs. Samoa Joe

Brad: Wennndyyy! Samoa Joe has been incredible over the past few months. He’s gotten deeply personal with Styles by getting his family involved. I don’t think Joe’s done tormenting Styles. Joe will take Styles’ title, forcing AJ to regroup and figure out how to conquer this bully once and for all. Samoa Joe wins the WWE Championship. (Prediction: Samoa Joe)

Andrew: Styles has had a great run as WWE Champion but it’s time for a change, and it happens here. Joe has been a good heel and counterpart for the babyface in Styles. He has gotten into the head of the champ, and with that, he wins his first WWE Title here. WWE is already promoting a rematch between these two stars for Super Show-Down, and that’s where Styles gets his rematch. (Prediction: Samoa Joe)

Jeff: I have been begging the universe (WWE & Cosmic) to let Joe take that strap off of AJ all summer. However, after seeing the AMAZING StoryTime With Joe promo on SD Live, I’m totally ok if this continues a little longer. I couldn’t love psychopathic Joe more, so I’m hoping this is his moment to stand tall and really give AJ something to fight for. (Prediction: Samoa Joe)

Ian: I don’t believe AJ Styles is going to lose the WWE Championship until sometime in 2019. Likely when he passes CM Punk’s modern day record of 434 days with the belt. To do that he will have to retain the title until just before Royal Rumble 2019. How this title reign impacts Wendy “Styles” and their children is unclear. It won’t be “Night night AJ” on Sunday, however. (Prediction: A.J. Styles)

CONSENSUS: 3-1, Samoa Joe

RAW Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey vs. Alexa Bliss

Brad: Champions are entitled to rematches. It’s probably not easy getting knocked off your high horse and having your championship title taken from you. But Alexa should have just let this one go. Ronda Rousey is the most dangerous woman in WWE and there is really no way around that. WWE is going all in on Rousey – she will headline WWE Evolution and they will want to keep her strong for that. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)

Andrew: The loom of SummerSlam is clearer than ever in this match as Rousey just won the title and why would you put the title back on Bliss so quickly? Plus, Rousey is the biggest female star on the roster that WWE has right now. Thus, she should be the champion, and when she does lose the title, it should be to another big star such as Charlotte Flair, which is just a matter of time from happening. Rousey retains with ease. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)

Jeff: Alexa Bliss is still a magical, perfect creature that deserves to be protected at all costs. That said, if you’re making money off the women’s division, Rousey is it. She just needs a believable opponent. I’d say this will be a squash match, with maybe Mickie James/Alicia Foxy interference. The only hope is that Ronda brings some backup as well … (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)

Ian: Remember when Ronda Rousey destroyed Alexa Bliss in under 5 minutes at Summerslam? Expect this match to go twice as long but feature the same result. Bliss will come in with a plan but ultimately still fall to the champ. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)

CONSENSUS: 4-0, Ronda Rousey

WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns vs. Braun Strowman (HIAC Match)

Brad: Roman Reigns slayed Brock Lesnar at SummerSlam. He’s now “THE” guy. Congrats! In addition to that Universal Championship, what else does our big winner get? He gets locked inside a cage with perhaps the most dangerous giant in WWE history. Jokes aside, these guys work well together. For the hate that Roman gets from a portion of the audience, he delivers more than not when it comes to big matches. I expect a very physical match, possibly with some interference from Ziggler, McIntyre and The Shield. In the end, our golden boy will stand victorious as WWE continues to solidify him as the top star on Raw. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)

Andrew: The era of Reigns as Universal Champion has just started and makes no sense for him to drop it to Strowman. This is a feud that will last for a few months, but in the end, Reigns will and always be the guy that Vince McMahon wants as the top guy despite what the fans think. Reigns escapes somehow in order to retain his title. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)

Jeff: Well, the addition of Mick Foley as the guest referee certainly… changes? This match? Maybe? Aside from getting the Money In The Bank briefcase off of Strowman, there’s really not much point to this match and all I can really hope for is that these two big dudes manage to wreck the Hell in a Cell cage. Look for someone to get tossed through it that hopefully isn’t over the age of 40. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)

Ian: One theory is that WWE enjoys having Roman chase the belt rather than retain it. This theory would hold that Braun Strowman will walk away from Hell in a Cell the Universal Champion. I agree with this theory and think Strowman wins the belt on Sunday. Perhaps Strowman attempts to hurt Mick Foley and Roman makes the save, creating an opportunity for Strowman to pin the champ. WWE then continues to have Roman chase the title with Strowman in Brock Lesnar’s previous role. (Prediction: Braun Strowman)

CONSENSUS: 3-1, Roman Reigns

What do the experts think is going to happen on Sunday? Check out the official WWE Hell In A Cell Betting Odds. What do you think of the above WWE Hell In A Cell predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section.

The September 10th edition of RAW featured Renee Young as the first woman to be a permanent member of the RAW broadcast team, putting her behind the same microphone used by such WWE commentator greats as Gorilla Monsoon, Jim Ross, Jesse” The Body” Ventura, Bobby Heenan, Jerry Lawler and even Vince McMahon himself. And I couldn’t be happier about it!

To qualify this; I spent 10+ years behind and in front of broadcast desks working in radio and TV news and talk shows. I learned from and saw how the greats of the industry did it and I can say without a doubt, there is a certain “it” factor to being a good broadcaster. It’s not just about being knowledgeable in what you’re talking about, it’s finding a connection with an audience and using it. A good broadcaster makes you feel like it’s just you and them in the room. Let me say, with all certainty, Renee Young is a good broadcaster.

Born in Toronto, Canada, Young (real name: Renee Paquette) had a brief flirtation with being an actress, but eventually became a host on The Score television network. On the Score, she hosted a show called Right After Wrestling (later renamed Aftermath) with Arda Ocal, Mauro Ranallo and former WWE referee Jimmy Korderas. She performed this and other hosting duties with The Score until signing with the WWE in 2012. It was easy to see that even then, Young had the spark and connection with the viewer that one needs to succeed.

The long list of men that have held the commentator position on WWE programming is like a who’s who of pro wrestling minds. Each one brought with them a signature tone, style and bucketful of terribly wonderful Dad Jokes to add colour and excitement to the matches we watched. Renee Young’s addition to the Commentator team is not important because she can perform like these legends. It’s important because she’s the exact opposite of them.

One of the biggest challenges the WWE faces these days is becoming stagnant. Recycled matches, a dependency on Part-Timers and Legends and storylines that seem to drag on and into nowhere are contributing factors to what makes RAW a difficult 3-hours to slog through on most occasions. Couple this with over 15 years of ear-fed commentary that, more often than not, takes away from the action instead of enhancing it, and the commentators or “hosts” of the show become a big part of the problem.

The commentary team on RAW saw a bit of a shot in the arm with the addition of Corey Graves, who’s proved himself to be quite capable behind the mic, but who’s role lately seems to have been relegated to snidely making fun of his co-hosts, while the oblivious Micheal Cole seems to be simply repeating things he’s told to say more often than not.

What Young brings to the table are three things:

1. A woman’s perspective, which is hugely important as we see Women’s Wrestling taking more of a central role in the show (thank goodness!)
2. A fresh, modern, voice, not just in opinion and comment, but also in tone, delivery and timbre. Her voice is strong, confident and stands out amongst the rest of the team. You NOTICE when she talks and thus, listen and are more engaged.
3. The experience of being a capital-B Broadcaster. Much like Mauro Ranallo on NXT (who coincidentally worked with Young at The Score) she knows and understands delivery, connection and how to get her point across clearly and effectively.

In September 2013, Young was given a shot at being a full-time color commentator on NXT. This lasted for several months, and I was extremely impressed by her ability and found myself more engaged in matches and wanting to hear what she thought. Rene did not disappoint. Now, 5 years later, her addition to the RAW commentary team is an excellent move. Not only because she’s a woman and appeals to wider audience, but also because she’s good at what she does. Very good.

No one stays retired. It’s one of the running gags that is prevalent throughout wrestling history. Ric Flair, Terry Funk, Mick Foley…they all returned. One man who has kept his word? Shawn Michaels.

HBK is arguably the greatest superstar to ever step into a WWE ring. The legendary career of Michaels and his show-stopping performances at WrestleMania events throughout history can only be matched by one man: The Undertaker. This past week on RAW featured the return of both HBK and ‘Taker to our screens, the former to cement his opinion that Triple H would defeat his longtime rival, or “cerebrally assassinate” to steal a phrase. This brought out The Deadman who brought up the WrestleMania history of all three men, confirming his dominance at the Showcase of the Immortals.

Why Tease With No Payoff?

The way that the segment ran played out like a very elaborate tease. It has been reported in the past that Vince McMahon loathes segments that tease impossible scenarios. Such as the Steve Austin podcast incident where he was goaded by Paul Heyman into seemingly challenging Brock Lesnar to a Texas Deathmatch…so would a scripted show like RAW have this ‘tease’ without merit? It’s possible, but why would you try something like this if it leads to nothing? WWE does have history in this department so it IS possible.

The question is, should HBK return to the ring? Yes and no. Yes because he is one of the greatest ever. No because it would need to be against The Undertaker. We really don’t need to see that match again do we? After two of the greatest WrestleMania matches ever do we need to retread that well worn path?

Rumors were floating that Michaels and AJ Styles could have a match for the WWE Championship at the Royal Rumble in 2017. It caused a huge buzz and there at least a slim chance that it could happen. The hype for this potential match was unreal and it could’ve been a real crowning moment in Styles’ career. However as Michaels stated in his RAW promo, he is a man of his word and he would not come out of retirement.

What’s The Likelihood?

Triple H and Undertaker will battle for the final time at the Showdown event in Australia in October. Michaels will probably be involved in some way but will it lead to one final HBK vs Taker match? If Undertaker truly decides that he wants to hang up his boots at next year’s WrestleMania (how many times have you seen that phrase over the years?) then could Michaels be the man to retire him? It would make for a fantastic moment to see HBK back in the ring but would this best be served for a new up and coming Superstar to give Undertaker his last hurrah?

Whatever happens, if we get one more Shawn Michaels match then it would be a spectacle we never expected. Seeing one of the greatest ever go at it one final time can’t be considered a bad thing. If Undertaker wants to retire against Shawn Michaels then they can both ride off into the sunset.

Here’s to WrestleMania 35, a decade after the greatest match in Mania history…one final time.

ALL IN takes place this Saturday night from Hoffman Estates, Illinois at the Sears Centre Arena. The card for the first-ever ALL IN event is loaded, with some of the best independent and international talent on the planet.

The main event for Saturday’s pay-per-view will see Rey Mysterio, Fenix and Bandido team up to take on the trio of The Young Bucks and Kota Ibushi in six-man tag-team action. Other headline bouts scheduled for the card include Cody vs. Nick Aldis for the NWA World’s Heavyweight Championship and PWI 500’s number one wrestler of the year, Kenny Omega, going one-on-one against Pentagon.

For a detailed breakdown on what to expect at Saturday’s ALL IN event, check out our extensive ALL IN page by clicking here.

SEScoops staff writers Brad Davis, Ian Carey and Andrew Ravens have prepared their predictions for each of the matches scheduled for Saturday’s big event. Without further adieu, here are the SEScoops Staff Predictions for ALL IN.

The Briscoe Brothers vs. SoCal Uncensored (Pre-Show)

Brad: I’m glad the Briscoe Brothers are booked for this show. They have been one of my favorite non-WWE tag teams for the better part of a decade. (Prediction: The Briscoe Brothers)

Ian: This match was set up on the latest episode of Ring of Honor television. Daniels defeated Jay Briscoe via DQ when Mark ran in with a chair. I think I have to give the Briscoes the edge in this match over SCU. While the faction from Southern California might play a key role on the Being the Elite series, the Briscoes are not a team which loses often. I don’t believe they will come out on the losing end at All In either. (Prediction: The Briscoe Brothers)

Andrew: I have Kaz and Sky going over in this match for a main reason. Kaz and Christopher Daniels are slated to challenge The Briscoes for the ROH Tag Team Titles at the Death Before Dishonor show where the champions will likely retain. Basic booking 101 says Kaz and Sky get the win and have Briscoes avenge their loss at the PPV event. (Prediction: SoCal Uncensored)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for The Briscoe Brothers

Over Budget Battle Royal (Pre-Show)

Brad: The Battle Royal is a fun idea that will allow for some surprises. Maybe this is an obvious call, but I expect Flip Gordon to be a surprise entrant and win. Possibly in a bear costume. (Prediction: Flip Gordon)

Ian: This really could be anyone. Only 11 participants have been announced as of this writing and pretty much everyone in wrestling not signed to WWE will be in Chicago this weekend. The winner will move on to face Jay Lethal on the main show but recent evidence suggests they will actually be taking on Lethal’s Macho Man-inspired character instead. I’ll put my money on Brian Cage to win the Battle Royal. (Prediction: Brian Cage)

Andrew: This is really a pick em match here as there are a few names that could win. One name stands out to me which is Brian Cage and I think he wins it here. It sets up for a nice match against Jay Lethal later in the show and would have an Impact vs. ROH match on the card, which would be a nice treat. Plus, Cage has been booked strong while in Impact. (Prediction: Brian Cage)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for Brian Cage

Hangman Page vs. Joey Janela (Chicago Street Fight)

Brad: Joey Janela has solidified himself as a rising star on the independent scene. His matches have a tendency to get pretty violent, which shouldn’t be a problem for Hangman. The Bullet Club blue chipper has a chance to make an impact on the biggest stage of his career. (Prediction: Hangman Page)

Ian: In a match which has just been announced as a Chicago Street Fight, I’m predicting Joey Janela defeats Hangman Page. With all the murder suspicions hanging over Page’s head I’m not sure how he’ll be able to focus on this match. Also, the No DQ rules could potentially allow the ghost of Joey Ryan to interfere. (Prediction: Joey Janela)

Andrew: Page has been on fire over the last few months as he continues to shine as the next up and coming top guy. Although Janela could win it, it makes more sense to have Page go over in this contest that should be a fun match. (Prediction: Hangman Page)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for Hangman Page

Stephen Amell vs. Christopher Daniels

Brad: The “Arrow” star makes his singles debut against the veteran Daniels. It’s smart booking to pair the rookie with a former ROH World Champion. I expect Daniels to help carry Amell to a solid match, but Daniels will use some heel tactics to get the win on the inexperienced newcomer. (Prediction: Christopher Daniels)

Ian: Stephen Amell from the hit show “Arrow” will take on SCU’s Christopher Daniels at All In. It’s likely that Daniels was chosen to work a match with the inexperienced Amell in order to guide him through it. I can’t see Cody booking Amell to lose here, not when he likely wants to continue his recurring role on his show. (Prediction: Stephen Amell)

Andrew: I’m really intrigued to see how Amell does in this match as he continues to learn the art of pro wrestling and to have him wrestling a guy like Daniels, is a great matchup as Daniels is a well-respected veteran. An easy pick here with Amell going over due to his celebrity status. (Prediction: Stephen Amell)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for Stephen Amell

Tessa Blanchard vs. Madison Rayne vs. Chelsea Green vs. Britt Baker

Brad: I am not a huge fan of 4-way matchers, but it is a chance to get four talented performers on the card. (Prediction: Tessa Blanchard)

Ian: I’m going to give Tessa Blanchard the edge in this one. Of all the women entered into this match, her star seems to shine the brightest. That isn’t to say the others aren’t talented in their own right, however. Blanchard is quickly becoming one of the best in her field, however. (Prediction: Tessa Blanchard)

Andrew: Any one of these talents could win this match, which should be one of the better matches on the card. I have Blanchard going over here due to her ongoing status with Impact Wrestling and someone who could steal a quick win after a rapid finish. (Prediction: Tessa Blanchard)

CONSENSUS: 3-0 for Tessa Blanchard

Jay Lethal vs. Battle Royal Winner (ROH World Title)

Brad: This prediction really hinges on who wins the kickoff show Battle Royal. That said, I think Flip Gordon is the man to challenge Jay Lethal here. Flip is not even booked for All In, but that will make things that much sweeter when he goes all the way. (Prediction: Flip Gordon wins ROH World Title)

Ian: Based on my previous prediction, Lethal should take on Brian Cage here. On the latest episode of Being the Elite, Lethal continue to fall into his old Macho Man styled character. His Black Machismo gimmick said on the most recent episode that he will be going to All In and not Lethal. I can’t see ROH having him drop the belt while portraying his Macho Man gimmick. Therefore, I think he’ll win. (Prediction: Jay Lethal)

Andrew: Since I have Brian Cage winning the battle royale, this is going to be a match that has the potential to steal the show. It makes no sense to have Lethal drop the title here no matter who he faces as ROH has a PPV in a few weeks with all of the TV built around that match that obviously has Lethal as champion. Thus, Lethal retains. (Prediction: Jay Lethal)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for Jay Lethal retaining the ROH World Title

Kazuchika Okada vs. Marty Scurll

Brad: Okada adds some big-time star power to All in. Scurll’s profile is elevated by working with the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion. I am excited to see Okada in person for the first time. Marty will hopefully put on the performance of his life, but I can’t see Okada losing in his biggest match in the Untied States to date. (Prediction: Kazuchika Okada)

Ian: Kazuchika Okada has joked that after he beats Marty Scurll, he’ll send the Villain packing to 205 Live. Scurll cut a promo on BTE this week basically telling fans they won’t see the comedic Scurll, but rather the dastardly serious Villain. Scurll’s been trying to bulk up to show he can be a heavwyeight but i expect Okada to come away with the victory at All In. (Prediction: Kazuchika Okada)

Andrew: Although I loved the fiery promo that Scurll cut on the latest episode of Being The Elite about this match, having Scurll go over here is not likely and to be honest, which would not make much sense despite his popularity. Aside from Kenny Omega, Okada is one of the top NJPW stars and wouldn’t make storyline sense for him to lose to a light heavyweight wrestler. Okada makes it rain and wins. (Prediction: Kazuchika Okada)

CONSENSUS: 3-0 for Kazuchika Okada

Kenny Omega vs. Pentagon

Brad: Omega vs. Pentagon could also steal the show, which I know is a very safe and obvious statement. Omega is the reigning IWGP Heavyweight Champion and arguably the best wrestler alive today. Pentagon is one of the most popular independent wrestlers in the world and has held championship gold all across the world. I expect these two to tear the house down. (Prediction: Kenny Omega)

Ian: There is no way the IWGP Heavyweight Champion is going to lose this match. The only way NJPW would allow him to lose is if it led to a match for their promotion which this one will not. It’ll be a great match but the result here isn’t in question. (Prediction: Kenny Omega)

Andrew: It will be interesting to see what shape Omega is in coming into this match due to his matches during the G1 tournament despite it ending a few weeks ago. That’s the storyline reason for this match not being the main event at least. Either way, Omega is the top star for NJPW and really should go over here. (Prediction: Kenny Omega)

CONSENSUS: 3-0 for Kenny Omega

Nick Aldis vs. Cody Rhodes (NWA World Title)

Brad: Billy Corgan, the NWA and Nick Aldis have done an admiral job in rebuilding the stature of the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. Cody Rhodes winning the title his father held in the main event of the monumental show he is promoting is too good of a story to pass up. (Prediction: Cody Rhodes wins the NWA World Title)

Ian: That this match isn’t going on last leads to the idea that Aldis could actually retain. It feels as though the NWA World Heavyweight Championship would be made to feel more important if it changes hands on this show, however. That could potentially lead to Aldis and Cody feuding over the title in ROH but that depends on what deal the promotion has with NWA owner, Billy Corgan. The NWA will be hosting their 70th Anniversary show in October, which could be main event’ed by Cody vs Aldis II. (Prediction: Cody Rhodes wins the NWA World Title)

Andrew: This match has been built up for months now, and it’s finally here. Aldis has done a great job as NWA Champion and is no doubt the face of that promotion spearheaded by Billy Corgan. The history here is the story as Cody’s father, Dusty Rhodes, held that title in his prime and has been a goal of Cody’s since leaving WWE. Thus, I have Cody winning it here and dropping it at a later date back to Aldis. (Prediction: Cody Rhodes wins the NWA World Title)

CONSENSUS: 3-0 for Cody Rhodes winning the NWA World Title

Rey Mysterio, Fenix & Bandido vs. The Young Bucks & Kota Ibushi

Brad: This has the potential to be match of the night. Expect an exciting, high-flying bout with all 6 men leaving it all in the ring. It’s a hard match to predict, but I think the Young Bucks and Kota Ibushi will steal the show and get the W. (Predictions: The Young Bucks & Kota Ibushi)

Ian: According to the Bucks and Cody, this match will close the show. While fans will no doubt be enthusiastic to see Rey, this is the Young Bucks night. Their efforts in producing the Being the Elite series is what made this show possible and there should be little doubt they will close the show with a victory. (Prediction: The Young Bucks and Kota Ibushi)

Andrew: This should be the match of the night as it has all of the ingredients to be just that with the names involved and the style that will be presented. Although the two members of The Golden Elite put on this show, I have Rey Mysterio, Fénix, and Bandido winning in an insane crazy match that will not soon be forgotten. (Prediction: Rey Mysterio, Fenix & Bandido)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for The Young Bucks & Kota Ibushi

What do you think of the above ALL IN predictions? Chat about them and post your own ALL IN predictions in the Comments section below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81ohUGyqpX8

Ronda Rousey will be stepping into the biggest match of her short wrestling career this Sunday. The ‘Rowdy’ Superstar will face Alexa Bliss for the RAW Women’s Championship. Rousey is currently tipped as the odds on favourite to win the bout (1/5 at the time of writing). The question now has to be is this all too soon?

Rousey’s mainstream appeal is unquestionable. The former UFC Champion arguably catapulted Women’s MMA into the main event and gave the division a viable ‘killer’ who remained dominant for a lengthy period of time. Rousey herself has stated her love for pro wrestling and has been appearing for WWE in cameo parts since Wrestlemania 31 with The Rock, Triple H and Stephanie McMahon.

Rookie Year

Still, to give the top Women’s Championship to a Superstar who is less than a year into her career is a gamble. Rousey has been more than serviceable as a performer thus far, with a show-stealing Wrestlemania performance and excellent work against Nia Jax at Money In The Bank and Alicia Fox on Monday Night RAW. To be a champion at the top of the pile and to represent a division however is a very different proposition.

If you have ability then tenure shouldn’t be factor, Kurt Angle achieved a huge amount in his rookie year and has gone on to become one of the greatest to ever lace up a pair of boots. Comparing Ronda to Kurt is bold but she has the pedigree; a premiere athlete with a passion and clear understanding of the business with huge upside potential.

Marketing Power

Still, this will be Ronda’s fourth match on WWE programming. With WWE’s renewed focus on Women’s wrestling and their upcoming Evolution PPV they could easily go with Ronda as the Champion OR Alexa Bliss could retain. A poster featuring Ronda Rousey holding the Women’s Title on a billboard in Manhattan sounds like marketing gold but would this be accepted by the fans or yet another rejection of WWE’s booking policies?

A potential difference maker may be the result of the Universal Title match. If Brock Lesnar retains then would you want two top “part-time” Champions? Whilst Ronda is touted as a full-time star she won’t be appearing on every single RAW. You have to also consider what two UFC affiliated Superstars as the top Champions also looks like to the casual consumer, would this make the rest of the roster seem weak? Likely not, but it’s worth considering.

Is it too soon for Ronda to take the belt? I’m leaning more towards saying no. This would actually be the perfect time to have Rousey win the big one and head into Evolution as the top star of the RAW brand. Marketing potential, star power and mainstream appeal are too great for WWE to ignore and Ronda Rousey is the biggest star that they have right now. It doesn’t hurt that she is pretty damn good in the ring too.

Do you think that it’s too soon for Ronda to win the belt? Let us know in the comments

WWE’s second biggest night of the year Summerslam is now only a day away. Whilst ‘The Biggest Party of The Summer’ will likely live up to that moniker in more ways than one this year (5 hour show anyone?) there are three potential names that could make their presence known when the Network special airs on Sunday night. Here’s our look at the 3 Potential Returns for WWE Summerslam 2018:

James Ellsworth

The innovator of the ‘no chin music’ may well be back for one last hurrah on WWE’s main roster. Ellsworth has recently been trying to get a #RehireEllsworth hashtag trending and there is a very good chance that he returns to the company Sunday night. WWE Smackdown Women’s Champion Carmella has the odds stacked against her in a triple threat Championship match against Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair, could Ellsworth make a return to help the ‘Princess of Staten Island?’ It’s certainly possible for Ellsworth to return and even cost Carmella the match. WWE are heading into their first ever all women’s PPV Evolution and the possibility of a champ vs champ match between the likes of Flair/Lynch and Bliss/Rousey is certainly not out of the question.

Hey everyone it’s @RealPaigeWWE’s birthday!!

Make sure you RT her happy birthday, and O..

Throw in the hashtag #RehireEllsworth !! pic.twitter.com/MMgOzlbHTF

— James Ellsworth (@realellsworth) August 17, 2018

The Rock

It has been a long time since we have seen ‘The Great One’ featured regularly on WWE programming. The Rock’s participation at Summerslam (if he appears) would most likely be in a segment with Elias.

Elias’ recent comments on RAW calling Miami “the same city that worships a low-life like The Rock” were not accidental. If the main roster rookie could somehow position himself into a segment alongside the biggest movie star in the world then that can only be seen as a positive, it worked wonders for Bray Wyatt…sort of.

The prospect of The Rock returning for a mere in ring ‘concert’ segment and nothing more isn’t exactly exhilarating, but it is extremely likely. Hopefully this will be a boost for Elias and not as detrimental as the aforementioned Wyatt.

John Cena

John Cena

The return of John Cena has certainly been a long time coming. Cena has not been seen in a match since his bout with Triple H at the Greatest Royal Rumble. The question here is how does Cena return, if he does in fact return Sunday?

The most likely scenario for this return is that Cena walks out with a microphone and challenges The Undertaker to one more match at Wrestlemania. Last year’s match between the two WWE legends surely can’t be the final bout between the two with Cena losing in decisive fashion to the Deadman.

The build to a potential career vs career match at Wrestlemania could have the same feel as the second Undertaker vs Shawn Michaels match. John Cena could demand a rematch with ‘Taker and the Phenom could demand that Cena prove that he is worthy of the marquee moment…perhaps a WWE Championship match could tempt ‘Taker?

Who do you think will return at Summerslam? Will anyone make a return? Let us know in the comments 

WWE SummerSlam takes place this Sunday night from Brooklyn, New York at the Barclays Center. The card for the 31st event under the SummerSlam chronology is a stacked one, with the best from the RAW and SmackDown Live brands.

The main event for Sunday’s PPV will see Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns battle it out for the WWE Universal Championship in a match that will be viewed closely due to rumors of “The Beast Incarnate” possibly being UFC-bound. Other headline bouts will see Ronda Rousey challenge Alexa Bliss for the RAW Women’s Championship and Samoa Joe challenge longtime rival A.J. Styles for the WWE Championship.

SEScoops staff writers Ian Carey, Andrew Ravens and Jeff Moss have prepared their predictions for each of the matches scheduled for Sunday’s big event. Without further adieu, here are our predictions for WWE SummerSlam.

RAW Tag-Team Champions The B-Team vs. The Revival

Ian: I wish I thought the Revival are getting the belts but considering the match is on the preshow, I’m going to go with Axel and Dallas. I get the feeling the Revival might not be Vince McMahon’s cup of tea. (Prediction: The B-Team)

Andrew: A match that is purely filler as we just saw it this week on Raw and one that no one really cares about. The Revival should obviously have a run as tag team champions and will eventually but not here. WWE is behind Dallas and Axel right now, and they find a way to retain the titles. (Prediction: The B-Team)

Jeff: I doubt I’m alone in thinking that the B-Team thing has just about run it’s course. I’m all for comedy wrestlers or in this case tag teams, but “accidentally” succeeding gets old. If I’m lucky, the Revival with walk out there, Shatter Machine them both back to Main Event and walk away with the straps, breathing some much needed air into the RAW tag team scene. Smackdown has been killing it lately with tag teams, so let’s get a RAW team that we can take seriously as Champions. (Prediction: The Revival)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for The B-Team

Rusev & Lana vs. Andrade “Cien” Almas & Zelina Vega

Ian: If this was on the main card I would expect a storyline development involving Aiden English but I think they will wait for Smackdown to do that. The pre-show isn’t given as much importance for storylines and angles. Almas and Zelina should win after botched interference from Aiden English but English won’t leave the trio completely until Tuesday. (Prediction: Andrade “Cien” Almas & Zelina Vega)

Andrew: This is a throwaway match that will likely have a heavy showcase for Rusev and Almas, who should have a good match that will likely have them dominate the in-ring time of it. It’s a toss-up as to who wins this match. Rusev and Lana are fan favorites, but Almas has been kept strong on TV. I have Almas and Zega winning here. (Prediction: Andrade “Cien” Almas & Zelina Vega)

Jeff: Given that this card has Bryan/Miz, Aj/Samoa Joe and about a dozen other matches on it, I shouldn’t really complain about the wonderful unicorn known as Rusev and the downlow best worker in the company, Almas, being sandwiched into this mixed tag match. That said, wouldn’t Rusev vs Samoa Joe for the title be something you’d want to see at say, Survivor Series? Anyway, Rusev & Lana win here because they have merch. (Prediction: Rusev & Lana)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for Andrade “Cien” Almas & Zelina Vega

Daniel Bryan vs. The Miz

Ian: Daniel Bryan will surely take home the feel-good victory here. One might think that Miz would get the win due to his reality show currently airing but Miz is better showcased by being given his due from babyfaces, anyway. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan)

Andrew: The contract status of Bryan plays a big factor in this match due to the fact that the next PPV event is after the date that his contract expires. If Bryan wins here, I could see that being a factor that he re-signed, but if he loses, that could lead to two things. Either he has signed a new deal, and WWE will continue this feud, or he hasn’t and want to put Miz over. Bryan should go over here in storyline, and I will predict he’ll win. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan)

Jeff: This feud has had it all; heated words, on-set face punchings, fake babies, and some of the most killer video packages WWE has ever done. This will more than likely be the match of the night given the 8 years of heat between the two men involved. I’d expect Daniel Bryan to win here, unless he’s planning on heading for the Indies next month. I don’t want to lose him from my weekly TV viewing though, so with a little luck this will not only be a killer match, but show WWE that they should back that dump truck full of cash out of Lesnar’s driveway and head west with it to Chez Danielson. (Prediction: Daniel Bryan)

CONSENSUS: 3-0 for Daniel Bryan

Finn Balor vs. Baron Corbin

Ian: Balor should pick up the feel-good victory here. Once upon a time Finn Balor was winning World Championships at SummerSlam… now he’s wrestling Corbin in a match few are excited about. (Prediction: Finn Balor)

Andrew: Balor should win here and for the sake of the match, let’s hope they keep it short as they haven’t had the greatest matches in the world when they work with each other. Balor gets his revenge once and for all. Balor wins. (Prediction: Finn Balor)

Jeff: It’d be fun if Finn showed up in Biker Werewolf Baron Corbin cosplay, or beat him in 5 seconds and spent the next 30 minutes in the ring building a Lego Millennium Falcon. Aside from that, I can’t see this match being anything other than a pee-break for me, which is a shame considering how great Finn Balor is. (Prediction: Finn Balor)

CONSENSUS: 3-0 for Finn Balor

WWE U.S. Champion Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Jeff Hardy

Ian: So Randy Orton never got named to this match? He must get involved somehow. I’m predicting this match gets thrown out in some way due to Orton’s interference. I also predict nobody shakes his hand following the match. (Prediction: No Contest)

Andrew: Randy Orton lingering in the background of this match will be put out to shine, and he could even play a factor into this fight. We’ve already seen this match twice with the latest finish coming with Orton attacking Hardy for him to win by DQ. I have Nakamura winning with help from Orton, who distracts Hardy, in order to retain his title. (Prediction: Shinsuke Nakamura)

Jeff: Seriously, what does this guy have against Jeff Hardy’s balls? Shinsuke has crushed them. Shinsuke has allowed Randy Orton to crush them. Shinsuke crushed them AGAIN. I was hoping once he moved on from Aj, Nakamura could have a really feud with someone like Rusev or Daniel Bryan or even Tye Dillinger. But no, here we are, looking at our 7.000th Hardy/Nakamura match in 60 days that will more than likely have a testicle-related finish. Maybe if Matt’s serious about retiring, he could manage his brother and keep the w(br)oken universe alive. (Prediction: Shinsuke Nakamura)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for Shinsuke Nakamura

WWE Cruiserweight Champion Cedric Alexander vs. Drew Gulak

Ian: It’s still Cedric’s time with the title. Until 205 Live develops a potential new star, they won’t take the belt off the current champ. Lio Rush could be on his way up but he’s not there yet. (Prediction: Cedric Alexander)

Andrew: Alexander has gone a great job at not only being the Cruiserweight Champion but also carrying the 205 Live brand, which needed a solid champion that the fans could not only get behind but also believe in. Alexander will retain in a fun match. (Prediction: Cedric Alexander)

Jeff: Oh yeah, they still have a Cruiserweight title, don’t they? I kid, 205 live has been great lately, and I like Alexander as the champion. I’d expect him to retain here, possibly via Mustafa Ali interference in order to keep the belt on Alexander so they can go at it again. Come to think of it, a Crusierweight Hell in a Cell match has never been done before, has it… (Prediction: Cedric Alexander)

CONSENSUS: 3-0 for Cedric Alexander

SmackDown Live Women’s Champion Carmella vs. Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte Flair

Ian: I’m picking Carmella! A triple threat with one heel and two friends is often a great opportunity for the heel to pick up a cheap victory. Expect Carmella to rub her victory in on social media to all the people who tell her she can’t wrestle. (Prediction: Carmella)

Andrew: All signs point to Carmella losing the title here, but WWE might have a swerve coming with either Lynch or Flair turning on each other and setting up a rivalry going forward. Carmella squeaks out with a cheap win to retain her title. (Prediction: Carmella)

Jeff: Thanks for keeping that belt warm, Carmella! But Charlotte’s back in town and if she doesn’t walk out of SummerSlam the winner, I’ll be shocked. I could easily see this leading to a battle between Becky and Charlotte over the title as Charlotte will probably employ some of her father’s tactics in order to win. Could bring some “straight fire” to the SD women’s division heading into fall! Also, where’s Asuka? (Prediction: Charlotte Flair)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for Carmella

WWE Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler vs. Seth Rollins

Ian: The Shield will take this match for the feel good victory. The real question becomes if Roman will be thrown into the Shield reunion after SummerSlam is over. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)

Andrew: An interesting dynamic here as Rollins should get his revenge on Ziggler after weeks of problems and getting beat down by both Ziggler and Drew McIntyre. However, with Dean Ambrose being at ringside, that adds a factor into it. I think WWE keeps the strap on Ziggler here with Ambrose and McIntyre getting into at ringside which allows Ziggler to walk away with the cheap win and setting up a tag team match next month. (Prediction: Dolph Ziggler)

Jeff: Another potential show stealer in this match, especially with the return of jacked up, Angry Dean Ambrose. However, am I the only one who thinks after the match he’s going to turn on his former Shield Bro, setting up a feud between the two over the IC title? Dolph can go do standup for a while and wouldn’t it be fun to see Drew take on a new, Braun Strowman-sized challenge? I think it would. Like I say, potential show-stealer, but Seth wins. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for Seth Rollins

MITB Briefcase Holder Braun Strowman vs. Kevin Owens

Ian: I have a feeling I might give a different pick than many on this one. I’m taking Kevin Owens, however. Owens is a cowardly heel and Strowman an unstoppable monster. One needs a briefcase to win the title and the other doesn’t. I expect Owens to get another cheap victory by way of DQ or count-out to win the briefcase. Strowman will have to win the title some other way. (Prediction: Kevin Owens)

Andrew: Strowman should not lose this match not only due to the good momentum that he has despite working with Owens at the previous PPV event but also because of what’s on the line here as Strowman is someone that should/will be booked into the main event scene, and likely an opponent for Roman Reigns going forward. Strowman goes over here to win the match and keep his MITB briefcase. (Prediction: Braun Strowman)

Jeff: I’m genuinely curious what they plan to do with this match as they have telegraphed the idea of an Owens win and Cash-in pretty hard. Hell, could even be just a Strowman cash-in, but since it’s expected, thats when WWE likes to throw the monkey wrench into things. Are they ready to pull the trigger on a Strowman title run? I don’t think so, but Owens, the best Universal Champion, getting the case and holding it over the heads of everyone heading into the fall would make for great TV. Either way, no one gets rag dolled like by Strowman like Owens, so the match should be entertaining. (Prediction: Kevin Owens)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for Kevin Owens

SmackDown Live Tag-Team Champions The Bludgeon Brothers vs. The New Day

Ian: I get the feeling Vince McMahon isn’t totally done building the Bludgeon Brothers up as monsters yet. I give them the win over New Day. (Prediction: The Bludgeon Brothers)

Andrew: You could make the case that it’s time to put the titles on The New Day as a way to change up the division but Harper and Rowan are still a new act as we have seen New Day as champions several times in the past. I see it being a good to solid match that could be extended another month. There’s no real good reason to take the titles off Harper and Rowan, and I see them retaining. (Prediction: The Bludgeon Brothers)

Jeff: Let me just jump right to the prediction here and say New Day takes back the tag titles. The Bludgeons have run the course, which is sad given that they are both great workers. Hopefully WWE can find a niche for them that doesn’t involve paper mâché hammers and Nu-Metal outfits soon. New Day have been having killer matches for what, a year now? It’s time they take their place on top and we get a re-match of their Hell In A Cell outing with the Usos. (Prediction: The New Day)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for The Bludgeon Brothers

WWE Champion A.J. Styles vs. Samoa Joe

Ian: This will be a fantastic match but it will not be where Styles loses the championship. I think AJ is going to be given the belt to run with until he surpasses CM Punk’s 481 day mark. To WrestleMania and beyond AJ! One day Joe will get the belt, it just won’t be Sunday. (Prediction: A.J. Styles)

Andrew: I actually see Joe winning this match here as it makes sense. Joe has been built up as a top star and challenger on the blue brand. These two are advertised for upcoming WWE events and will likely continue their feud at the Hell in a Cell PPV event next month. Styles has had a great run as champ, but now it’s time for him to chase with Joe as champion, which is something that is overdue. Joe wins the title. (Prediction: Samoa Joe)

Jeff: AJ Styles is one of the best performers in the world right now, arguably all time. He’s had classic matches during his run in WWE, but let’s be honest; his title reign has be lacking. Mainly lacking an adversary that can deliver. Joe can deliver. These two should be able to put on a clinic in what should be match of the night. My only disappointment has been that this feud has so far been mostly talking. Weird, family oriented talking. Here’s hoping some action takes it to the next level. As may or may not be apparent, I love heated rivalries over titles where it goes back and forth. (Prediction: Samoa Joe)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for Samoa Joe

RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss vs. Ronda Rousey

Ian: I hope this match closes the show. It likely won’t, otherwise WWE would have made a big deal of the first women to main event SummerSlam. I think Rousey squashes Bliss and begins her reign as an unstoppable champion. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)

Andrew: It appears more and more that this is Rousey’s time to finally capture her first title in the WWE and no other spot is better than SummerSlam at this time of the year. Some can say that it’s too early for her to win the title but we are getting closer month by month to WrestleMania. Rousey wins the title and can feud with Bliss for the next few months. Rousey gets it done. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)

Jeff: Alexa bliss is a 5-time women’s champion. Ronda Rousey may not be human. We’ve already done the “Rhonda loses via shenanigans” bit so hopefully the WWE doesn’t go back to that well. As much as I love Alexa, if you want Rousey to be as dominant as she should be, she needs to grab that belt like she was born for it. That alone will elevate the title, division and give the women like Ember Moon and Ruby Riot a reason to step up their game and show us what they’ve got. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)

CONSENSUS: 3-0 for Ronda Rousey

WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns

Ian: I picked Roman at WrestleMania and I was incredibly confident in my pick. At the Greatest Royal Rumble, I again picked Roman and again felt confident in my pick. Yet somehow, here we are at SummerSlam and I’m about to make the same mistake all over again. He has to right? They have to have Roman beat Brock at SummerSlam. Part of me wants to believe he won’t and then they’ll have Strowman beat him and become the new big dog he runs this yard. Won’t happen though. Roman for the win. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)

Andrew: This is by far the easiest prediction of this whole card. Vinnie Mac gets his way and crowns Reigns as the Universal Champion. Lesnar, who is off to the UFC, is not advertised for any other WWE events and his contract is most likely up after this match. This isn’t a huge surprise by any means. Although I do pick Reigns as the winner, don’t be surprised to see Braun Strowman cash in his Money in the Bank briefcase after the match as a way to send the fans home happy. Reigns wins this match against Lesnar and the title. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)

Jeff: This match has been talked about, written about, blogged about, podcasted about and speculated on by everyone and their (big) dog, myself included, and I’m so tired of it. It’s going to go one of three ways; 1) Roman wins and everyone boos because they’ve been trained to even though he’s really good. 2) Brock retains and flips back and forth from WWE to UFC, we still don’t have a major title on RAW and everyone boos. Or 3) There’s a Money In The Bank Cash in and Strowman or Owens walks away with the title making it the second time Roman has been screwed by the MITB briefcase. And everyone will probably boo for no reason. Personally, I want the Monday-After-Wrestlemania Roman Reigns who beat the Undertaker to end up with the strap and not only revel in the boos but finally be allowed to make them work for him. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)

CONSENSUS: 3-0 for Roman Reigns

What do the experts think is going to happen on Sunday? Check out the official betting odds. What do you think of the above WWE SummerSlam predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section.

NXT Takeover: Brooklyn 4 takes place this Saturday night from Brooklyn, New York at the Barclays Center. The card for this WWE Network special is stacked from top to bottom.

The main event will see Johnny Gargano challenging NXT Champion Tommaso Ciampa in a Last Man Standing match. Shayna Baszler will put the NXT Women’s Championship  on the line against Kairi Sane. The Undisputed Era’s gold will be up for grabs in two highly anticipanted contests. Ricochet will challenge Adam Cole for the NXT North American Championship. Tyler Bate & Trent Seven will look to capture the NXT tag titles from Kyle O’Reilly & Roderick Strong. Finally, Velveteen Dream faces EC3 in what’s sure to be an exciting bout.

SEScoops staff writers Ian Carey, Andrew Ravens and Jeff Moss have prepared their predictions for each of the 5 matches. Without further adieu, here are our predictions for NXT Takeover: Brooklyn 4:

The Velveteen Dream vs. EC3

Andew: People say styles makes fights. It will come true at least in terms of pro wrestling in this contest. Dream has been someone who has been on fire for over a year now . However, EC3 is known for his promos, not necessarily his in-ring performance. I see this being a good back and forth match to keep up the momentum of this card. EC3 goes over here as WWE intends to continue to present him as a big star. (Prediction: EC3)

Ian: This really comes down to who you think NXT is going to push as a bigger star. Unlike the main roster, a random single’s match on a pay-per-view tends to carry more importance in NXT. There’s usually just one title-less match a Takeover and the winner often finds themself in the title picture shorty after. I’m taking EC3 here, I think he becomes a fixture in the NXT title picture after a win over the Dream. (Prediction: EC3)

Jeff: We do not deserve a match as wonderful as this. That said though, I’m going to drink up every drop, because this may end up stealing the show. It’s a stacked show, so that says a lot. EC3 has done a great job of transferring his character into the NXT universe, filling a Bobby Roode-shaped void and doing it really, really well. But, Dream hasn’t won a Takeover match since January, defeating Kassius Ohno at Takeover: Philadelphia. It’s time for the Dream to pull the trigger and take the next step into a title picture and a victory over EC3 would certainly do that. (Prediction: The Velveteen Dream)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for EC3

NXT Tag-Team Champions The Undisputed Era vs. Tyler Bate & Trent Seven

Andrew: We’ve seen these two teams wrestle each other in the past and fans will have high expectations coming into this one as it will be one of the best matches on the card, which is quite stacked. Although they have been swapping title changes as of late between the two teams, there is not a demand to have Bate and Seven as the champs as O’Reilly and Strong are main characters on the NXT brand right now. O’Reilly and Strong should retain. (Prediction: Kyle O’Reilly & Roderick Strong)

Ian: I’ll take the Undisputed Era here as I imagine if they wanted Moustache Mountain to have the belts they would have kept them on the team after the UK tapings. The other option is MM take the belts with them to NXT UK but I think its more likely they stay with the current champs. (Prediction: Kyle O’Reilly & Roderick Strong)

Jeff: This is a tough one. I like Moustache Mountain because, well, who wouldn’t? But I also like Undisputed Era with the tag straps. But I ALSO like the idea of giving them someone to feud with. So I’m hoping that this puts a cap on the current feud and sets up a new challenger for the Era. Perhaps a pair that’s fond of steaks? Or weights? (Prediction: Kyle O’Reilly & Roderick Strong)

CONSENSUS: 3-0 for Kyle O’Reilly & Roderick Strong

NXT North American Champion Adam Cole vs. Ricochet

Andrew: The big question coming into this match is the fact of how confident is WWE officials in Ricochet. Obviously, they’re big supporters of him but with him being out of action over the last several weeks to allow him to heal up, do they believe that he is ready to work on a regular schedule going forward. If so, I can easily see them putting the title on him and freshen up not only that title but also have a way to continue this feud. Ricochet wins this match and title. (Prediction: Ricochet)

Ian: I have a feeling Ricochet will in some way show he is better than Coler but still not come away with the championship title. Whether Ricochet wins by DQ, count-out, or it’s a no-contest, Adam Cole leaves with the belt but Ricochet leaves with a reason for William Regal to book a rematch. (Ricochet)

Jeff: What, no ladders? This is one of those matches that’s virtually impossible not to like. Adam Cole? Goooood! Ricochet? Goooood! Title on the line? GOOOOOOD!! Unless there’s some shenanigans from Cole’s Undisputed Era bandmates (I still say it sounds like a screamo group) it’s time for Ricochet to get his first taste of NXT Gold. I wouldn’t be upset if this was the beginning of a longer feud between the two over the North American title. It’d give both men a nudge towards the top and elevate the still-new title as well. (Prediction: Ricochet)

CONSENSUS: 3-0 for Ricochet

NXT Women’s Champion Shayna Baszler vs. Kairi Sane

Andrew: An intriguing bout that could see either star win here as Baszler has breathed fresh air into the division as champion, but it’s clear that WWE officials are very high on Sane and could make her the queen on this night. However, I don’t see a reason to take the title off of Baszler at this point, this is why I see her retaining. (Prediction: Shayna Baszler)

Ian: I’m picking Baszler to pick up the win here. She has just done so well as champion that I can’t see them taking the belt off her before Evolution. The all-women pay-per-view is basically WrestleMania for the women’s rosters in WWE this year, so I don’t see her being dethroned before then. (Prediction: Shayna Baszler)

Jeff: I have to be honest; I was way more into the Shayna Baszler/Nikki Cross battle than I am Baszler/Kairi sane. No disrespect to the Pirate Princess, but Baszler playing off of the unknown entity that is Cross was far more entertaining. Now, that said, this match will be good because both women are at the top of their game and could easily steal the show, and Sane showed some real aggression this week on NXT. I still don’t think Sane is the one to dethrone the dominant Baszler however, so I can’t see a title change here, but it will be a hell of a match. (Prediction: Shayna Baszler)

CONSENSUS: 3-0 for Shayna Baszler

NXT Champion Tommaso Ciampa vs. Johnny Gargano (Last Man Standing)

Andrew Ravens: After months of this feud, this appears to be the finale of it. Although WWE’s original plans of having a triple threat match with these stars and Aleister Black would have been very good, having these guys go on last with a type of match where they will have full creative freedom, should deliver a contest that WWE fans won’t soon forget and should not only steal the match of the night but also of the weekend. Ciampa just won the title recently and the fact that this will likely be the end of this feud, it doesn’t make much sense to have Gargano win. Thus, Ciampa retains. (Prediction: Tommaso Ciampa)

Ian Carey: Things in this story got all messed up when Aleister Black got injured. Whatever their plans were, they have changed. At some point, they must have planned for Gargano to beat Ciampa so I’m thinking they’ll have that happen here even if they had originally planned for it to happen in November. (Prediction: Johnny Gargano)

Jeff Moss: While I never like to see anyone hurt, especially for a long period of time, losing Alistar Black from this match has made it better, which is really hard to say because I really like Black! But, Gargano and Ciampa are physically and psychologically unable to have a bad match as we’ve seen and the missing piece of the picture was always that Championship. The funny thing is, now that it’s involved I don’t care who holds it! The audience/story wins no matter who wins this match!

Ciampa is the best heel in WWE (maybe all of wrestling) and Gargano is the purest Babyface I’ve seen in years. I’m torn as to if I’d rather this be the end of their feud in NXT and one goes to Raw or Smackdown to elevate the talent there, or if they can stay in NXT and fight forever. Regardless, if I think about it hard enough, I think it’s time to give Johnny Wrestling his due and either start a long-term feud over the title or send Tomasso to SummerSlam to wreck Roman’s night. (Prediction: Johnny Gargano)

CONSENSUS: 2-1 for Johnny Gargano

What do you think of our NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn 4 predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section.

The biggest event of the summer takes place August 19th. Last Monday saw Roman Reigns take the win over Bobby Lashley to become number one contender for Brock Lesnar’s Universal Title. This being their fourth confrontation for the title has many concerned as they’re already tired of this matchup.

With SummerSlam being weeks away, the Universal title match could still change, even for the better.

The Story Heading Into SummerSlam

It’s no secret that Lesnar plans to fight for the UFC in the nearby future (if he passes all his USADA drug test first though). With his new contract having him being paid for appearances instead of having set dates throughout the year has made Lesnar’s presence with the title meaningless.

It doesn’t help either that the WWE is trying to make Reigns the underdog against Lesnar in their series of matches in order for Reigns to get over.

Their last title confrontation was at the Greatest Royal Rumble event in Saudi Arabi where the match ended in controversy as Reigns was the first to touch the floor with his feet, not Lesnar.

As of recent weeks, Reigns has been in the battle for number one against Bobby Lashley and the match that determined the number one contender took place last week with Lashley losing in the end. At this point, both Reigns and Lashley hold a win over each over, possibly indicating WWE is not done with their rivalry.

Lesnar vs. Lashley

The dream match many wanted to see for the longest time was Brock Lesnar vs. Bobby Lashley. Both men have a background in amateur wrestling and MMA and is the most requested matchup since Undertaker vs. Sting. While Undertaker vs. Sting may never happen, the WWE has to take the opportunity of Lesnar vs. Lashley while it is still possible.

At this point, it has been rumored that Lesnar will drop the belt to whoever he faces at SummerSlam so he can commit to his MMA training. While Roman Reigns is the desired golden boy for WWE, that doesn’t mean Lashley in some way cannot be in that title picture as well.

A Triple-Threat Solution

Triple threats have been a mainstay to shake up a matchup. From Shawn Michaels vs. Triple-H vs. Chris Benoit to Randy Orton vs. Batista vs. Daniel Bryan, a third factor has proven to shake up a tired rivalry and usually pays off. While Benoit and Bryan have won their respected matches, Lashley doesn’t necessarily have to win the title but a title win at this point seems overdue.

Bobby Lashley faced John Cena at the Great American Bash back in 2007 for the WWE Championship and lost to the leader of the Cenation as the company already picked their golden boy. Lashley right now is an amazing competitor and is way over with the fans (especially against Roman Reigns) and if he were to be inserted to the title match at SummerSlam would be desired to keep that match fresh.

If I was to book this, I would have Lashley as the third man for the title match at SummerSlam and would have him win the title by pinning Lesnar.

From there I would turn Bobby heel and have him feud with Reigns. Have them battle for the Universal title at the next PPV in where the stipulation has Reigns lose the spear if he lost against Lashley. Forcing him to find to a new finisher and beat Lashley at the next PPV after that, therefore getting him over.

Would You Like To See A Triple Threat Match For The Universal Title At SummerSlam? Sound Off In The Comments Below!

As reported earlier this week New Japan Pro Wrestling appear to be seriously considering offering Shinsuke Nakamura an opportunity to return to the company once his reported three year deal with WWE ends in the next few months.

As a former three-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion and five-time IWGP Intercontinental Champion Nakamura can be considered amongst the greatest performers to ever step foot in an NJPW ring, but should the ‘King of Strong Style’ return to the company which put him on the global wrestling map?

In terms of presentation, presence and performance there is no denying that Shinsuke is as unique and electrifying a character as anyone in pro wrestling today. Since joining WWE he has grown his brand and worldwide notoriety in a way that simply would not have been possible if he had stayed as part of the New Japan roster. It is arguable however that Nakamura’s greatest works came as part of his time in New Japan and he has not reached the heights of the G1, Wrestle Kingdom et al since he made the leap over to WWE, aside from an incredible showing in his debut against Sami Zayn.

With the international expansion plans and strategy to target a more western audience New Japan would be hard pressed to find a performer on the planet with the upside of Nakamura. He already has a strong following in his native Japan and has built a strong fanbase amongst WWE’s ‘universe’ so this really would be a win-win for them. Realistically though how likely would it be for Shinsuke to change course and return to the company that ‘made’ him?

Shinsuke has absolutely toned down his style since arriving in WWE, the striking prowess is still evident but the velocity of his arsenal is nowhere near what it once was in New Japan. Would Nakamura want to risk leaving what is widely regarded a ‘safer’ style in the WWE and return to the ‘dangerous’ New Japan formula (although this is left up to interpretation)? Nakamura now sits as one of the premiere focal points of the Smackdown brand, you can argue that being United States Champion isn’t a premiere position but there are only a finite amount of belts in the company and Shinsuke possesses one of them…that to me is a very strong position to be in.

Sure, seeing the ‘Rockstar’ of old in New Japan tearing it up with the likes of Kenny Omega, Kazuchika Okada, Jay White, Will Ospreay and Kota Ibushi is an extremely exciting prospect but can you compare these marquee bouts to being on a WrestleMania card? That is a decision that Nakamura may well have to make in the near future but with WWE seemingly looking to solidify their stranglehold on the pro wrestling market across multiple regions (I’m looking at you UK division) and one of their star attractions being looked at by a competitor you can bet that a deal with a very attractive number will be heading towards the Nakamura camp in the near future.

Do you think that Shinsuke should return to New Japan? Let us know in the comments

It was announced last week at Raw from General Manager Kurt Angle that if Bayley or Sasha do not get along one could be traded to Smackdown. While the tag team of Bayley and Sasha vs. Dana Brooke and Alica Fox did not “end well” it will be interesting to see if WWE will follow up on the trade angle.

This editorial will look at the pros and cons of trading either Sasha or Bayley to Smackdown and who should Smackdown trade in place of either female superstar.

The Storyline Thus Far…

Bayley and Sasha have been feuding for the better half of 2018. With their recent “counseling” angle costing them two weeks off from wrestling on Raw and even  Extreme Rules, one would wonder what is the next step for the feud.

Angle announced to Bayley that either she or Sasha could be traded to Smackdown if they don’t “get along” and their following tag team match proved that they are not on the same page.

The last segment between the two rivals revealed that Sasha “loves” Bayley in a way that might be stronger than friendship. Many rumors are speculating that a lesbian angle between the two might be in the works after this encounter but like every WWE storyline, it’s subject to change last minute.

The Trade To Smackdown

While the lesbian angle would coincide with the current LGBTQ movement, both females are heterosexual and Sasha is married while Bayley is currently engaged with her fiance. I say this as a lot of wrestling fans cannot put the distinction between kayfabe and real life and at this point would seem to be forced just for the sake of it.

If we were to ignore the ambiguous statement from Sasha and continue with the trade angle one would have to consider the pros and cons of either females being traded.

Bayley (Pros):

The move to Smackdown could very well be in Bayley’s favor. During her tenure on Raw, Bayley has fallen from grace and hasn’t been considered a serious contender for the Raw Women’s Championship after her injury from last year.

On Smackdown she could get fans re-invested as she could re-ignite a feud with real best friend Carmella and battle for the title in the remaining months of the year. Bayley could also provide more face power to the Smackdown Women’s division as heels outnumber the faces as of right now.

Lastly, if the feud with Carmella is booked properly, she could be the third women in history to hold both Raw and Smackdown Women’s Championship.

Bayley (Cons):

If the trade were to be made it could be helpful for Bayley in the beginning but could be detrimental as well.

Currently, Smackdown is focusing on a possible Women’s title match with Carmella and Becky Lynch, the other storyline had the IIconics and Rose and Devile elevate Becky to the number one contender status.

In the dust, Naomi has not been used for a storyline for many months and Lana is involved with the Rusev Day angle. Long story short, Bayley could be thrown into obscurity if creative has nothing for her on Smackdown if traded.

Sasha Banks (Pros):

Sasha has let the WWE Universe know time after time that she would love to go to Smackdown and emulate her wrestling idol Eddie Guerrero from his time on the blue brand.

On Smackdown, Sasha could bring back the heel persona she portrayed on NXT and rule with an iron fist on the B show. I personally feel they would take more of a chance of turning her heel on Smackdown as it is the B show and Smackdown is known to take more character risk and persona changes than Raw (minus the Emmalina hype).

Other feuds that could happen is Sasha versus Becky Lynch or Sasha versus Naomi, even Sasha versus Asuka or Charlotte could be revisited and be given more time on the blue brand.  Her presence on Smackdown could be used to help elevate Mandy Rose and Sonya Devile. God’s Greatest Creation could get use some elevation in order to be taken seriously as a title contender and is numerously quoted as the “next Trish Stratus”.

Sasha (Cons):

If Sasha were to turn heel it would have to be booked right. While we have Carmella as the top Smackdown Women heel, we have the IIconics, Rose, and Devile there as well but have been mainly used for filer matches.

Obscurity could be another issue that Sasha could face if put on Smackdown. Unless she wins the Smackdown title in the upcoming six months she could be in the same barrel as Naomi if she isn’t being used for any storylines if traded.

My opinion on the matter if I was booking this feud? I would move Sasha to Smackdown. Sasha being on Smackdown could be the breath of fresh air that Smackdown might need right now and her turning heel has been hinted for over a year now and could finally happen on the B show. She just needs to be relevant on Smackdown in order for the trade to be worthwhile.

The Smackdown Trade

If either Raw female superstars were to be traded to Smackdown who would take their place?

Charlotte:

The Queen is still recovering from implant repair surgery and a resurgence on Raw could be her ticket back to being on top. While Charlotte has been making history on Smackdown, if she were to return back to Raw she could be pitted against Rousey in a feud that many want to see and could continue elevating the Raw Women’s Championship if she were to win it again.

Becky Lynch:

The Irish Lass Kicker is gearing up to battle Carmella for the Smackdown Women’s Championship. While Lynch has played the underdog on Smackdown for some time, her being traded to Raw makes more sense if Charlotte is not chosen. Her fighting persona could be used for a competition type feud with Rowsey to see who could compete to be number one contender for the Raw Women’s Title.

Naomi:

While Naomi’s second title win at Wrestlemania 33 was hometown moment, anything after that has been forgettable. A presence on Raw could spark a feud with Alexa Bliss and Mickie James and Naomi could be used as a transitional champion until WWE is ready to give Rousey her first title run.

How It Should Be Booked

Raw takes place tonight in Cincinnati, Ohio. It only makes sense to have another segment with Bayley and Sasha (in which the “love” statement could be further elaborated) that could lead to a match that night. From there Kurt could announce a match at SummerSlam between Sasha and Bayley and the stipulation would be that the loser of that match would get traded to Smackdown.

It puts eyes and attention on the fued and makes up for their absence from Extreme Rules. From there it’s up to WWE to see what decision they’ll take in trading who for who. Either way, this shake-up would add interest to WWE programming and not take away from it.

Who Would You Trade If You Were Booking This Storyline? Leave A Comment Below.

WWE has spent the better part of two decades building SummerSlam, their mid-year pa-per-view event, into a show that they deem as big (or almost as big) as WrestleMania. The same kind of glitz, glamour and excitement and big-time matches worthy of The Showcase of The Immortals.

As we move towards this year’s iteration of SummerSlam I can’t help but feel like a lot of that is being undone by the fact that we (almost) know exactly what’s scheduled for the main event: Brock Lesnar losing the Universal Title.

With Brock’s short-term WWE contract and already-announced move back to the UFC, it’s an almost inevitable but then again that is what the fans predicted at both WrestleMania AND the Greatest Royal Rumble when he faced Roman Reigns, so could we once again be ‘swerved’ at the last minute?

Whoever faces Brock at SummerSlam (if we discount any shenanigans with a Money In The Bank cash-in) is likely walking out with the Universal Title. This pretty much means the only thing of interest in this match is the who, and how of it all.

This past week on RAW, Roman Reigns and Bobby Lashley won separate triple-threat matches to win the right to face off this Monday to see who will face Brock for the Universal Title at SummerSlam. This presents three possible scenarios:

Lesnar Vs Lashley – WWE is sometimes like a little kid. They fixate on a certain toy or show and that’s all they want. Right now for 3-year old WWE, it’s MMA. With Brock’s appearance in a UFC Octagon, and Lashley’s MMA background, it wouldn’t surprise me if they were to try to put them in the ring and say “As long as Brock loses, just go for it!” Of course, that’s unlikely because there’s more to putting on an MMA-style shoot fight than just doing it. Plus, in the PG era I doubt it’d fly. Another possibility: Heyman turns on Brock and becomes Lashley’s advocate. Lashley really needs to do that “not talking” thing, and we could all use more Paul Heyman in our lives.

Lesnar Vs Reigns – Roman Reigns is a good wrestler. There, I said it. You know it, I know it, and maybe this is the time for him to shake off the bad booking he’s suffered through and make a full (badass) heel turn. Remember his promo the night after facing the Undertaker at Wrestlemania? It was spectacular. If finally beating Lesnar gets us that Roman full-time, it’ll all be worth it. It could really change his career trajectory, and also elevate the title, because who wouldn’t want to beat the crap out of that guy?

Lesnar Vs Lashley Vs Reigns – This is practically Wrestling 101. It would be easy for WWE to have the match between Lashley & Reigns go to a no contest through some kind of shenanigans, causing them to repeat the match the next week, which would more than likely end in similar circumstances, and they’d just declare it a Triple Threat at SummerSlam. This match would be great for Brock because he could lose the title without being pinned. It’d be terrible for the audience in that it’d be nothing but a glorified Reigns/Lashley match, which we’ve just sat through, like, a lot. This is the most likely of the scenarios, to be honest. It could give us the outcome of a 1-on-1 Reigns/Lesnar match, while protecting Brock and making Lashley…still be there? I guess?

My choice? It’s actually a fourth scenario: With the excitement around the Intercontinental Title right now, Ronda Rousey Vs Alexa Bliss and the rumoured Samoa Joe Vs AJ Styles WWE Title match potentially on the card, honestly, we don’t really need a Universal Title match. The best thing WWE could do is start the show with the Universal Title in a display case in the ring, announce that Brock has been stripped and the Title will be retired to a closet in HHH’s office. In it’s place will be a re-instated Heavyweight Championship (Hey, it’s my fantasy booking, let me have this), which Lashley and Roman will battle for in the Main Event.

The Universal Title debuted at SummerSlam, so ending it there would be fitting.

Sound off in the comments! What scenario would you like to see play out at SummerSlam with the Universal Title? 

The weekend is drawing close, and with it comes WWE’s latest joint-brand pay-per-view offering. This Sunday, Extreme Rules emanates from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania at the PPG Paints Arena – the 10th installment of the Extreme event.

Top attractions from RAW include Roman Reigns vs. Bobby Lashley, a 30-minute Iron Man match for the Intercontinental championship and Alexa Bliss defending the RAW Women’s Championship against Nia Jax with Ronda Rousey sitting ringside.

On the SmackDown side, we’ve got WWE Champion AJ Styles defending against Rusev and Shinsuke Nakamura challenging Jeff Hardy for the United States Championship.

Several esteemed members of the SEScoops writing team have assembled for this ’roundtable predictions’ feature. Below, Ian Carey, Jeff Moss Andrew Ravens provide expert analysis and predictions WWE Extreme Rules 2018.

Hit up the comments section to let us know what you think of our staff predictions and share your own. 

WWE Extreme Rules 2018 Card

• A.J. Styles vs. Rusev (WWE Title)
• Roman Reigns vs. Bobby Lashley
• Alexa Bliss vs. Nia Jax (RAW Women’s Title)
• Matt Hardy & Bray Wyatt vs. The B-Team (RAW Tag Titles)
• Carmella vs. Asuka (SD! Live Women’s Title)
• The Bludgeon Brothers vs. Team Hell No (SD! Live Tag Titles)
• Dolph Ziggler vs. Seth Rollins (WWE I-C Title)
• Jeff Hardy vs. Shinsuke Nakamura (WWE U.S. Title)
• Braun Strowman vs. Kevin Owens (Steel Cage)
• Finn Balor vs. Baron Corbin

WWE EXTREME RULES 2018 STAFF PREDICTIONS

WWE Championship
A.J. Styles (C) vs. Rusev

Jeff Moss: Please, oh, please let this be RUSEV DAY! I have nothing against AJ Styles, he’s one of the best in the world. But I have to say, his time as champ has been dry turkey with no gravy. He’s a perfectly cromulent champion, but it’s time for some new blood. Rusev has made something from nothing with Rusev Day and if we can put the belt on Bray Wyatt for no reason, then Rusev surely deserves some time at the top. Rusev wins and goes on to feud with Big E so that I can hear him say “PHOOEY” to pancakes every week. (Prediction: Rusev)

Andrew Ravens: This might be the easiest and clear-cut pick on this entire card. There’s no reason to have Styles drop the strap at this event especially to Rusev, despite him being a fan favorite. Styles’ run as WWE Champion has been incredible and eventually he’ll lose it but if he didn’t lose it to a top guy like Shinsuke Nakamura over the last few months, it doesn’t make sense to put the strap on Rusev, who has only been pushed as a top star as of late and for such a short amount of time. Also, with SummerSlam right around the corner, it would make more sense for Styles to drop it next month instead of a B-show. Styles retains. (Prediction: A.J. Styles)

Ian Carey: As much as I’d love to say Sunday could be the day Rusev wins his first world championship, I don’t see it happening. They will have a great match, perhaps one capable of showing Vince McMahon Rusev should be a world champion someday but Styles will win. The real question is who Styles will defend against at SummerSlam. Samoa Joe strikes me as someone who could fill that role. (Prediction: A.J. Styles)

CONSENSUS: A.J. Styles (2-1)

Roman Reigns vs. Bobby Lashley

Jeff Moss: I’m going to go out on a limb and say the wet, muscley guy with little-to-no personality is going to win this match. (Flips Coin) So, Booby Lashley. Seriously though, since this match has absolutely no stakes to it, I say Lashey takes it. It’ll build him up a bit and make him look strong to the audience who doesn’t remember 10 years ago. What’s the worst that could happen to Roman by losing? People boo him? (Prediction: Bobby Lashley)

Andrew Ravens: Reigns is the likely favorite to win this match. Obviously, he still the top guy for them right now. It doesn’t make much sense to have Lashley go over in this match considering that SummerSlam is right around the corner. If Brock Lesnar is going to wrestle next month, then common sense would tell you that Reigns would be his opponent for the Universal Title. Unless plans have changed, Reigns goes over and faces Lesnar at SummerSlam. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)

Ian Carey: Reigns is evidently still being built for Lesnar. This is the case despite the fact that Reigns has now dropped 2 straight matches to him. Unless WWE randomly decides they want to build Bobby Lashley to be a monster, I don’t see them having him beat Roman. I also don’t think WWE sees much in Lashley, at least that is what their booking of him says. (Prediction: Roman Reigns)

CONSENSUS: Roman Reigns (2-1)

RAW Women’s Championship
(Ronda Rousey At Ringside)
Alexa Bliss (C) vs. Nia Jax

Jeff Moss: Alexa Bliss is time and time again one of the best Heels on RAW. She lies, she cheats, she makes you love to hate her and she does whatever she can to hold onto that title. I’d expect her to retain here, possibly by DQ when Ronda Rousey remembers she works for WWE and jumps the barrier to lay waste to Bliss, Mickie James, Jax, Nattie and just for the heck of it, Liv Morgan. (Prediction: Alexa Bliss)

Andrew Ravens: This is a bridge gap between now and SummerSlam as the WWE continues to build towards a match with Bliss and Ronda Rousey that will likely go down at SummerSlam. Jax had a nice run with the title, but now the focus has shifted towards Bliss once again. Bliss retains. (Prediction: Alexa Bliss)

Ian Carey: I have to imagine Alexa Bliss is winning this match leading to a match with Ronda Rousey at SummerSlam. With Rousey sitting ringside, the winner of this match is her likely next opponent. WWE has already done Rousey vs Jax (which was great!) and Bliss has more natural heat than Jax does, so she’s the logical pick to face Rousey at SummerSlam. (Prediction: Alexa Bliss)

CONSENSUS: Alexa Bliss (3-0)

RAW Tag-Team Championships
Matt Hardy & Bray Wyatt (C) vs. The B-Team

Jeff Moss: The Deleters of Worlds started off hot as hell via the madness of The Ultimate Deletion. They’ve cooled considerably since, especially given Bray Wyatt’s recent driving troubles. The B-Team takes the belts here to complete their improbable rise to the middle, and then they are called to the Hardy compound for a rematch. WONDERFUL!! (Prediction: The B-Team)

Andrew Ravens: There’s no question who goes over in this match considering that Bo Dallas and Curtis Axel have been presented as comedy players in this feud. It appears that WWE is setting up a program that will see Hardy and Wyatt feud with The Revival at SummerSlam. Thus, this match at Extreme Rules is a one-off. Wyatt and Hardy retain. (Prediction: Matt Hardy & Bray Wyatt)

Ian Carey: I imagine this match will likely lead into the next Final Deletion style event. It’s not outside the realm of possibility that the B-Team win the titles here so that Hardy and Wyatt can take them back either at SummerSlam or at the Hardy Family Compound. Still, I think Hardy and Wyatt are a safer pick. (Prediction: Matt Hardy and Bray Wyatt)

CONSENSUS: Matt Hardy & Bray Wyatt (2-1)

SmackDown Live Women’s Championship
Carmella (C) vs. Asuka

Jeff Moss: In a perfect world, Auska would climb into the ring, kick James Ellsworth in the face so hard his balls become a new chin and then make some kind of decorative hat out of what’s left of Carmella. That said, this feels like a strange time to put the title on Auska when we know how dominant she can be. So I’d expect some more tomfoolery with Ellsworth will allow Carmella to slink away with the title and we’ll have one more match at Summerslam (Prediction: Carmella)

Andrew Ravens: An interesting match that could see either star win and it would make sense. Asuka has gotten the better of Carmella on television, which historically would have Carmella go over on the PPV. However, if WWE wants this feud to continue, then they would need Carmella to chase Asuka. I don’t see a title change here but rather at SummerSlam. Carmella retains. (Prediction: Carmella)

Ian Carey: James Ellsworth will be hanging above the ring in a shark cage for this match. While this should seemingly prevent him from interfering in the match, the opposite is usually the case. Asuka should win and take the title here but she won’t. She’s not Vince’s top-female in the division, that honor goes to Charlotte Flair. I’m predicting Carmella wins again due to help from Ellsworth and then moves on to face Charlotte at SummerSlam. (Prediction: Carmella)

CONSENSUS: Carmella (3-0)

SmackDown Live Tag-Team Championships
The Bludgeon Brothers (C) vs. Team Hell No

Jeff Moss: Are Team Hell No going to win these titles? YES! YES! YES! Is every blogger in the wrestlesphere going to make that joke in some way, shape, or form? YES! YES! YES! Truly though, you want to make it seem like Daniel Bryan’s return was more than just a couple of video packages and a feel-good story? Then let’s have him be involved in a story that matters (IE Championships!) The Bludgies have just about run their course and I can’t see them becoming super-interesting in the coming months. So why not let us enjoy two men arguing over which one of them (singular) is the tag team champions (plural)? (Prediction: Team Hell No)

Andrew Ravens: All signs point to Kane turning on Bryan, and that’s unfortunate. It makes no sense for Harper and Rowan to drop the straps here considering the build-up that WWE has invested in them up to this point. Bryan could face Kane at SummerSlam instead of the rumored match with Miz. It also doesn’t make much sense for Bryan and Kane to have a title run for a short amount of time due to the fact that Kane is running for Mayor. Harper and Rowan retain. (Prediction: The Bludgeon Brothers)

Ian Carey: Team Hell No should take the titles here. While Harper and Rowen have gotten a big push with their gimmick makeover, they aren’t the stars Daniel Bryan and Kane are. Putting the tag belts on Team Hell No puts them in a position to have a bigger match with another pair of guys at SummerSlam. It also helps keep Daniel Bryan out of the WWE title picture for awhile and they likely want him chasing the belt when it is held by a heel. (Prediction: Team Hell No)

CONSENSUS: Team Hell No (2-1)

WWE Intercontinental Championship
(30-Minute Iron Man Match)
Dolph Ziggler (C) vs. Seth Rollins

Jeff Moss: I think Ziggler will win, then win again, then Seth will win, then Ziggler again, then Seth, then Seth with a quick rollup as time expires, leading to extra time where Seth will ultimately get beat up by Drew McIntyre, leading to Ziggler retaining the title. If done right though, this could be the match of the night. It’s all a matter of which versions of these two guys show up. They both have a habit of being red hot or stone cold (no pun intended). (Prediction: Dolph Ziggler)

Andrew Ravens: This will be a classic match and could steal the show. They have already wrestled twice within the last month, and one would think that Rollins gets the title back due to Ziggler going over as of late. However, I could see them extending this program one more month as its been one of the top feuds on RAW. Ziggler goes over with some help from Drew McIntyre. (Prediction: Dolph Ziggler)

Ian Carey: That there has been no stipulation added to prevent Drew McIntyre from interfering seems significant. The likely conclusion to this match then has McIntyre helping Ziggler score the winning fall or somehow holding onto his title. My prediction is it will be a tie or a draw/no contest of some kind, with Ziggler retaining. (Prediction: Dolph Ziggler)

CONSENSUS: Dolph Ziggler (3-0)

WWE United States Championship
Jeff Hardy (C) vs. Shinsuke Nakamura

Jeff Moss: There’s two things I want from Jeff Hardy: 1.) To be as weird as Matt. 2.) Not to die. It’s been long rumoured that Hardy is working hurt and at 562 years of age, that’s not shocking. Nakamura needs something right now besides rap-metal and being a loveable foreign prankster, so the US title could be a good way to take him to the next level so he can become that jerk we all loved in Japan and we can get a REAL AJ/Nak feud. Also it gives Hardy enough time to heal, rise up and usurp Bray Wyatt as BROTHER NERO! (Prediction: Shinsuke Nakamura)

Andrew Ravens: WWE has a few options here with Hardy retaining or Nakamura getting his first title reign on the main roster. I have Nakamura winning due to him needing a big win after several losses to AJ Styles over the past few months. They could always set up a rematch at SummerSlam. (Prediction: Shinsuke Nakamura)

Ian Carey: Nakamura failed several times in a row to take the WWE title from Jinder Mahal in 2017. Then he failed multiple times to win the WWE title from AJ Styles this year. If Nakamura doesn’t beat Jeff Hardy to win the US title then they might as well give him back to NJPW so others can enjoy his work. (Prediction: Shinsuke Nakamura)

CONSENSUS: Shinsuke Nakamura (3-0)

Steel Cage Match
Braun Strowman vs. Kevin Owens

Jeff Moss: This is the one I’m looking forward to the most. Who wouldn’t want to watch Braun Strowman ragdoll someone around a steel cage? I’m kind of sad that it has to be Kevin Owens getting ragdolled, but then again, no one gets beat up by Braun Strowman like Kevin Owens. As long as the match doesn’t end in another toilet, I’ll be happy. (Prediction: Braun Strowman)

Andrew Ravens: The build-up to this match has focused on Strowman getting the better of Owens. By looking at how the WWE has booked programs in the past, Owens should get the win in this match. However, Vince McMahon is obviously a big fan of Strowman. Just look at how he has been booked. Strowman goes over in a crushing and dominating victory. (Prediction: Braun Strowman)

Ian Carey: Whatever WWE has planned for Braun Strowman, it’s big. He’s the “Monster in the Bank” and that briefcase will guarantee him a match against either Brock or Roman. He will be built up as unstoppable until then. Kevin Owens has re-signed with the company under a long-term deal. His role is to get people like Strowman over. (Prediction: Braun Strowman)

CONSENSUS: Braun Strowman (3-0)

Finn Balor vs. Baron Corbin

Jeff Moss: Oh geez… Finn… buddy. What happened? I think this made-for-the-kickoff-show encounter will leave us all asking one vital question: Who are these people and what are they doing here? Finn has gone from killer demon cosplayer to smiley-dude-who-has-a-cool shirt, and Baron Corbin has gone from Baron Corbin… to Baron Corbin, but in a vest and (somehow) less hair. Truly there are no winners in this match, but for the sake of this article, the winner will be Finn. (Prediction: Finn Balor)

Andrew Ravens: Either one of these stars could go over, and I don’t think fans are as invested in this feud as WWE officials are at this point. Corbin goes over with a cheap win to keep the feud alive. (Prediction: Baron Corbin)

Ian Carey: It is entirely possible that Corbin wins this match. Vince McMahon has always like Corbin on account of he’s tall. That he is now in a position of authority on Raw might indicate Vince has rekindled his love for him. Vince likes Finn too but has failed to give him a big push since coming back from the injury that cost him the Universal Championship. Still, it seems as though Finn is a much bigger star and heading into SummerSlam that means something. (Prediction: Finn Balor)

CONSENSUS: Finn Balor (2-1)

What do you think of our WWE Backlash 2018 predictions? Let us know by sounding off in the Comments section.

The Octagon travels to Chicago, Illinois this weekend, as UFC 225: Whittaker vs. Romero II goes down live on Saturday night, June 9th, from the United Center, airing live on pay-per-view. As is always the case before a big MMA event, our MMA affiliate website, MMANews.com has you covered from multiple angles with pre-fight analysis and insight from multiple veteran MMA writers.

MMANews.com staff writers Matt Boone, Andrew Ravens and Ian Carey will break down the fights scheduled for the main pay-per-view card, which includes a star-studded lineup and two championship fights. In the main card opener, former WWE Superstar Phil “CM Punk” Brooks returns to the Octagon to fight fellow 0-1 rookie Mike “The Truth” Jackson.

With that said, let’s take a look at what Boone, Ravens and Carey think about tonight’s Punk vs. Jackson fight.

CM PUNK VS. MIKE JACKSON PREDICTIONS

Featured below is the pre-fight analysis and predictions for tonight’s CM Punk vs. Mike Jackson main card opening bout at the UFC 225: Whittaker vs. Romero II pay-per-view.

Matt Boone: So, you want a tough assignment? Break down CM Punk vs. Mike Jackson from an “expert” standpoint. And … GO! Good luck! This is as big a question mark as any fight you’ll get, as it is essentially two guys that have fought once, against the same guy, and lost in one-sided fashion. We’ve seen neither man do anything inside the Octagon yet, other than take punishment and get finished in the first round. Having said that, “The Truth” is supposed to be some kind of standup artist and Punk likes jiu-jitsu a lot. Who knows. I’ll go with Jackson. (Prediction: Mike Jackson)

Andrew Ravens: There is not a ton of footage to go off of the previous fights that both fighters have had. It’s a real pick em here. It could go either way. Although you could make the argument that Jackson should win this fight, this is Punk’s best chance of winning a pro-MMA fight. I see Punk dominating with his jiu-jitsu because that is what he has been training for over the last several years now and ultimately getting a TKO win in the first round. (Prediction: CM Punk)

Ian Carey: With all do respect to CM Punk, he’s going to get embarrassed again. Is Mike Jackson a great MMA fighter? Absolutely not. Is he an actual MMA fighter tho? Yes, yes he is. CM Punk is not. Jackson had his first amateur fight over 9 years ago. Punk started training a few years ago. At some point in Jackson’s training coaches would have told him he’s skilled enough to compete. Punk signed a UFC contract before he started training. The UFC is supposed to be for the top fighters in the world, not just the ones who draw the most money. You could put a Kardashian in the octagon and it would draw money, it doesn’t mean you should do it. Let’s call it for what it is, Punk’s fame bought him a paid trip to MMA fantasy camp. The fantasy ends on Saturday. (Prediction: Mike Jackson)

CONSENSUS: Mike Jackson (2-1)

For analysis and predictions for all fights on tonight’s UFC 225: Whittaker vs. Romero II pay-per-view card, check out the full article at MMANews.com by clicking the appropriate link. The same can be said for live round-by-round results coverage of tonight’s show.

• UFC 225: Whittaker vs. Romero II Staff Predictions
• UFC 225 Results: Whittaker vs. Romero II
• UFC 225 Results On Twitter (@mmanews_com)

What do you expect to happen when CM Punk fights Mike Jackson at UFC 225 this evening? Sound off in the Comments section below.

This past Friday was May 4^th, prompting everyone and their mother to tell me “May the 4^th be with you,” a clever little pun in reference to Star Wars. Well, on the May 4^th edition of MLW Fusion, there were certainly of lot of STARS having a lot of WARS in the ring.

Yes, that was the best way I could think to start this column. My apologies.

My corny joke aside, there were certainly a lot of feuds being revved up this week. Let’s break it down.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49p0b4hSrgY

The show starts in the arena. Jimmy Havoc comes down to the ring. We see footage of a brawl between Havoc and Joey Janela from Walemania. Havoc gets on the mic and calls Janela out. Janela comes out. The two men brawl into the crowd and to the back of the arena. That’s the last we see of them.

Low Ki comes out next in an outfit that says “I may be a contract killer, but I like to look professional.” A video package shows a previous incident that he had backstage with MVP. During the melee, Low Ki attacked an MLW matchmaker. Announcers Tony Schiavone and Rich Bocchini tell us Low Ki was suspended by MLW for the attack on the official. Back in the ring, Low Ki gets a mic and complains about the suspension. He says that his stable, Black Friday Management, always collects its debts and will collect its debt from MVP. MVP doesn’t like the sound of that and makes his way down to the ring, but his opponent for the night, Sami Callahan, comes from behind him. Oh God, he’s a got a bat! Oh, thank God, he’s only choking MVP with it, not trying to bash his eye out. The chaos is broken up and we go to the opening video package.

Schiavone and Bocchini welcome us and talk about the main event between MVP and Callihan.

Simon Gotch vs. ACH

“Filthy” Tom Lawlor comes out with Team Filthy, which includes the former Vaudevillain, Simon Gotch, and another man whose name is not acknowledged. Lawlor says that due to his injured left forearm, he cannot compete tonight against ACH, therefore Gotch will fight in his place.

ACH comes out next. The ref helps him spar before the bell rings. That’s something I’ve never seen before.

The two competitors start off with a collar and elbow tie up and some chain wrestling. Gotch gets ACH into a cross armbreaker but ACH escapes. Gotch breaks ACH down with a European uppercut, stomps, and kicks. He eventually traps ACH in a chinlock using his legs. ACH gets a rope break. Gotch locks in another rest hold but ACH elbows his way out of it. He comes back with chops but Gotch kicks him in the face. We go to commercial.

When we come back, Schiavone is talking about rope breaks. A rope break must have occurred during the commercial, but we don’t get that context. I’m not a fan of commercials during wrestling matches, but at least WWE will have its announcers tell you what happened while you were watching the 900^th commercial promoting the show about 2Pac and Biggie.

Gotch throws ACH with a gutwrench suplex followed by some corner stomps. With the ref distracted, Lawlor chokes ACH with his left hand. The announcers speculate whether Lawlor’s left forearm injury is real. If history is any indicator, I would say “no” (see Orton, “Cowboy” Bob).

ACH gets control back by kicking Gotch’s leg out from under him and booting him with a basement single leg dropkick. Gotch stops an ACH attack, hits a sunset flip with a roll through, and kicks ACH. Gotch attempts a German suplex, but ACH rolls through, grabs Gotch’s legs, and gets the three count.

The rest of Team Filthy fly into the ring and beat up ACH. Lawlor uses his flip flops as weapons and Schiavone sells it like he’s using a steel chair. Team Filthy make their way to the top of the aisle where they’re interviewed by Andrea Ocampo. Gotch says that ACH is going to the ICU and Lawlor says he’s five million times better than the man his team just left lying in the ring.

Schiavone runs down the MLW Top 10 rankings. The list includes:

1. Pentagon Jr.
2. Jimmy Havoc
3. MVP
4. Low Ki
5. Tom Lawlor
6. Sami Calligan
7. Rey Fenix
8. Jeff Cobb (Lucha Underground’s Matanza Cueto)
9. Joey Janela
10. Barrington Hughes

The champion that these 10 men are all after is, of course, Shane “Swerve” Strickland.

Speaking of Swerve, we get a video package in which the champ says he’s fighting for his kids. Hey, that’s what MVP said last week! They both can’t fight for their kids! One of them is going to have to be selfish and fight for themselves.

A commercial for the June 7 MLW TV taping airs. On that night, the first ever MLW Tag Team Champions will be crowned.

The show comes back with a promo package from Maxwell Jacob Friedman, who does the same 1% gimmick as EC3. In fact, he has a striking resemblance to Dixie’s nephew. MJF tells the home viewers that if the roles were reversed, they’d be like him, but unfortunately, they’re not. Schiavone calls him an “egotistical little jerk.” There’s something charming about Tony Schiavone getting angry. I can’t wait until the day that someone in MLW does something so egregious that Schiavone condemns them “straight to hell.”

Vandal Ortagun vs. “One Man Demolition Machine” Mike Parrow

Ortagun is a Turkish kickboxer while Parrow is just a big s—kicker. Ortagun gets a tiny bit of offense in here and there. However, Parrow just ends it with a barrage of power moves, including a fallaway slam into the corner, a gorilla press, a chokeslam, and finally a sit out powerbomb, which garners him the three count. During the match, Colonel Rob Parker came out to observe the 300-pound Parrow. With the match over, Parrow meets the Colonel in the aisle and they shake hands. It looks like Parker has another big hoss in his Stud Stable.

Andrea Ocampo is in the back with Salina de la Renta. De la Renta is distracted by something off camera, which turns out to be Shane Strickland. She tells Strickland not to get too comfortable with the World Heavyweight Title around his waist and then flashes the “Cero Miedo” hand sing.

Next up is a promo from Havoc. He tells Janela that whenever they fight, they bring out the best and worse in each other and Havoc learns something new about himself every time. Havoc proclaims himself the King and says that Janela will experience havoc the next time they step into the ring together. He threatens that Janela will bleed, so he better “bring a towel” because he’s going to lick all of the blood off of him. He licks his lips and I am officially uncomfortable.

Ocampo knocks on Team Filthy’s dressing room door and notifies Lawlor that MLW officials have proclaimed him healthy enough to compete next week against ACH. Lawlor gets indignant. Gotch tricks Ocampo into thinking he’ll talk to her outside but then slams the door on her.

We are shown a recap of Sami Callihan’s attack on MVP from the start of the show. Callihan cuts a promo in the back where he makes fun of MLW’s production (see, it’s not just me). He says he gets off on pissing people off and running their day. If that’s the case, then he must have been rock hard when he busted Eddie Edwards’ eye with the baseball bat. He makes fun of MVP’s redemption story and tells MVP that he’ll have to tell his son that he’s a failure. Man, this guy is a d—. He ends by saying he’ll be the MLW Champion.

Sami Callihan vs. MVP

While Callihan makes his way down to the ring, Schiavone and Bocchini wonder what kind of bat Callihan is using. With his baseball background, I trust Schiavone’s analysis when it comes to bats. If he ever goes into a soliloquy about lattes, my ears will be perked.

MVP doesn’t wait for his entrance as he storms the ring and goes right for Callihan. They brawl to the outside. MVP tries to chop Callihan but misses and chops the ring post instead. Callihan rams his head into the post and MVP collapses into a fan’s chair. Callihan orders the fans out of his way. He runs to the seated MVP and connects with a discus elbow. I really thought something more devastating was going to happen there. He runs at MVP again, but the former WWE US Champ, trips Callihan and sends him face first into the chair.

MVP throws Callihan back into the ring, but man from Anonymous, Ohio rolls to the outside. MVP follows and is met with Steven Seagal-like eye gouging from his opponent. Bocchini says they’re tied in the Top 10 rankings. Wait a sec…

3. MVP

6. Callihan

Nope, not tied, Rich.

Callihan gets back in the ring and the ref starts a 20 count on MVP, who’s in pain on the outside.

After a commercial break, Callihan rips off MVP’s Breathe Right strip. That’s just too far. You can tell a man he’ll be a failure to his children, but you DON’T pull off his Breathe Right strip!

MVP gets the advantage with a delayed vertical suplex. Callihan sends MVP to the outside. He jumps off the apron for an attack but MVP catches him and slams him with an apron uranage. Both men are on the floor now and get back in right before the ref’s 20 count is over. They get to their feet and trade punches. MVP goes for a kick but Callihan punches him in the leg. He comes off the rope but is thrown with a release belly to belly suplex. MVP chops him in the throat, drives his knee into his face, and drops the Ballin’ Elbow. He covers with a fisherman suplex for two. He sits Callihan on the top rope and climbs to the second rope. Callihan slips down to the mat and tries to pull MVP down with a powerbomb but MVP holds on. Callihan goes between MVP’s legs and kicks his left ankle out from under him. He gets MVP on his shoulders and brings him down with a Samoan driver.

Callihan finds his bat in the corner and picks it up. The ref tries to take it away without success. MVP grabs the bat and the two men fight over it, which ends when MVP pushes Callihan into the ref. The mishap allows MVP to execute the Playmaker. However, with the ref incapacitated, a huge mystery man runs down to the ring and strikes MVP with a falling side slam. The ref comes to and Callihan covers, but only gets two. MVP makes one last stand with a fireman’s carry cutter and right hand to the mystery man. When he turns around, Callihan gives him a low blow, allowing him to execute the Cranial Contusion and grab the victory. He celebrates the win with the mystery man, who carries him out of the arena.

The announcers hype next week’s fights between Havoc and Janela and Lawlor and ACH.

In the back, Ocampo interviews Shane Strickland, who says he feels confident. He steps into his dressing room but finds something that stops him in his tracks. The camera enters the room and we see a shrine on the wall containing candles, skulls, and pictures of Strickland. The image of a skull is on the mirror, and the last image we see is of Strickland looking into the mirror. From the angle of the shot, Strickland’s face lines right up with the skull, as if Pentagon is sending the message that Strickland’s fate will be sure death. I’m sure he won’t kill him. I’m sure he just wants the title, right? Right???

Final Thoughts

Like I said at the start of this column, this week’s show built up a lot of feuds, including Havoc vs. Janela, Team Filthy vs. ACH, and MVP vs. Callihan. The chaotic atmosphere was established at the beginning of the show, and except for the squash match in the middle, it kept up until the end of the main event.

Mike Parrow was impressive in his big man role. If he becomes the new addition to Stud Stable, who knows how much power Colonel Parker can amass. Perhaps he can bring the big guy to the World Title; or maybe the big guy will have a hand in the Dirty Blondes becoming the first Tag Team Champions.

The build to the upcoming title match between Strickland and Pentagon is coming along nicely, with Pentagon now playing mind games with the champ. I’m excited to see what happens in the next few weeks.

Those are my thought for this week’s show.

Next week’s show will be on May the 11^th.

I don’t have any jokes about that date.

Um…

Okay, see you then.

New Japan Pro Wrestling has announced that two of the best exports from the British Isles will be clashing once again as part of the Sakura Genesis event on Sunday 1st from the fabled Ry?goku Kokugikan in Tokyo, Japan. This is certainly not the first time that the two have faced, and hopefully this will not be the last in a storied rivalry spanning not just companies, but continents.

If you have never had the opportunity to see these two former PROGRESS World Champions collide then here are the best 3 matches to get you started on the Aerial Assassin/Villain journey:

Will Ospreay (c) vs Marty Scurll – PROGRESS Chat Sh*t Get Banged

Will Ospreay (Photo credit: Forbes)

The first match on our list comes from PROGRESS Wrestling’s 25th Chapter event ‘Chat Sh*t Get Banged,’ this was to be the end of Ospreay’s great run as Champion after defeating Jimmy Havoc at Chapter 20 and the beginning and quite frankly the making of Marty Scurll. This match had a No Disqualification stipulation and took place 2 weeks after an incredible bout between the two at Rev Pro’s High Stakes event in 2016. An excellent main event match between two of the most dynamic performers on arguably wrestling’s hottest independent ticket saw these two rise above the stellar Rev Pro effort and the No DQ stip certainly leant a gravity to proceedings, one to check out on Demand PROGRESS for sure.

Will Ospreay (c) vs Marty Scurll – NJPW Power Struggle

There are two matches that could easily fill this slot, the first bout between the two at NJPW’s Best of the Super Juniors tournament was extremely eye opening…the now established member of the Bullet Club stable Scurll arrived in New Japan and the crowd treated him like a veteran, his mannerisms and character resonated perfectly with the audience and the duo put on a Juniors styled match that captivated NJPW fans.

However the match that followed between the two for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Title sees an even more entrenched Scurll facing a now tenured Ospreay and far more of their individual styles can be seen on display here. A great match that leads on to their eventual Wrestle Kingdom four way bout for the IWGP title and a good refresher before the two face at Sakura Genesis.

AJ Styles vs Will Ospreay vs Marty Scurll – Rev Pro Uprising 2015

AJ Styles celebrating after winning the United States Championship at WWE Live Event

What better way to make this feud even more epic than to throw in one of the best wrestlers in the world currently (if not in history)? Ospreay himself has stated that AJ is one of the reasons that he entered the squared circle and this bout for the British Heavyweight Title is one of the best matches in Revolution Pro history.

This match certainly helped cement Ospreay and Scurll as legitimate contenders on the World stage and proved many fans of the UK scene right; we have some of the best performers in the world rising the ranks in our homeland. You can watch this match as part of Rev Pro’s On Demand service right now.

Make sure that you catch this and all of the other incredible bouts happening this Sunday at New Japan’s Sakura Genesis on NJPWWorld.com

I gotta break the curse.
PROGRESS title. ROH TV title. IWGP Jr title.
Marty has always been my kryptonite.
One on one. Ive got to beat him. pic.twitter.com/SGP9IoH5Pb

— Will Ospreay • ????????? (@WillOspreay) March 27, 2018

Ronda Rousey is in the unfortunate situation where she doesn’t have much room for error.

The former UFC women’s champion inked a deal to join WWE back in January and made her debut at the Royal Rumble before disappearing off television for several weeks to finish filming a movie in Colombia.

When she returned, Rousey was immediately paired with Kurt Angle over the course of three weeks where she “signed” her contract at the Elimination Chamber pay-per-view and then in the two subsequent weeks on Raw, she appeared to set up her WrestleMania 34 match.

Now Rousey will make her in ring debut at the biggest event of the year when she teams with Angle against Triple H and Stephanie McMahon in a mixed tag team match. With Rousey’s return to television, WWE also promoted that she would be appearing at every Monday Night Raw between Elimination Chamber and WrestleMania 34.

There’s only one problem — Rousey has been completely absent from live television the past two weeks outside of a vignette that was shown this past Monday night that talked about her journey from the UFC to joining WWE.

As it turns out, Rousey actually was in Dallas for Raw but she didn’t make any appearance during the live broadcast, but instead came out for a non-televised “dark” segment where she addressed the crowd and then had an incredibly awkward spot with Dana Brooke.

Now no one is going to accuse Dana Brooke of being the best worker in the company but the sequence of moves with Rousey — from the poorly blocked punch to Brooke literally jumping into Rousey’s arms to help her with a suplex — was just terrible execution. She’s only been training for her in-ring debut for a handful of months, so it’s going to take a long time before she’s pulling off moves with fluidity like watching Charlotte Flair take on Sasha Banks.

It seems rather obvious that WWE is giving Rousey a chance to learn on the job with a segment like she had with Dana Brooke this past week, but then that also begs the question — will she truly be ready for WrestleMania in three weeks time?

It’s easy to point at past celebrity appearances for WrestleMania matches — from Mike Tyson to Floyd Mayweather and even President Donald Trump — to know that WWE isn’t exactly banking on them suddenly transforming into A.J. Styles overnight. By that same account, no one expected Kurt Angle or Brock Lesnar to suddenly pick up the business in a matter of days when they first joined the WWE universe.

The difference with both Angle and Lesnar as high level athletes who transitioned into WWE is that they had time to develop in promotions away from the bright lights. Angle worked matches in several developmental promotions before finally being eased into a role on television. Lesnar famously teamed up with Shelton Benjamin as a tag team in Ohio Valley Wrestling and spent two years working in a developmental league before finally being called up to the main WWE roster.

Even fellow UFC veteran Shayna Baszler, who counts Rousey as one of her best friends, spent several years working her way up through the independent circuit before she was given a shot in WWE as part of the “Mae Young Classic” and now she’s still developing as part of the NXT roster.

Meanwhile, Rousey will have none of those luxuries as she prepares for her first match on the biggest stage possible at WrestleMania 34. Chances are Rousey won’t be expected to carry much of the match — what’s more likely is Stephanie McMahon will shy away from Rousey the entire match leaving the bulk of the work to Triple H and Angle. By the end, Rousey will likely find her way into get the tap out and the victory as she officially kicks off her WWE career.

That being said, Rousey’s spots thus far in WWE have been tough to watch.

Her mic work has a lot of room for improvement, but that will come over time. She has an undeniable presence about her, despite the limited emotive range we’ve seen thus far (either a huge grin or her ominous ‘murder face’). Add to that, she’s been awkward with the pair of slams that she’s landed on Stephanie and Dana Brooke in her two more physical altercations in the ring.

The toughest part about those sequences is that no first time wrestler would be expected to pull off those moves flawlessly — but 99.9-percent of first time wrestlers aren’t doing that in front of thousands of people with millions more watching at home on television.

Ronda Rousey making her WWE debut in front of a jam-packed stadium will do big business and draw mainstream headlines. At the end of the day, that’s what this is all about.

However, her room for error as a worker under this bright spotlight is virtually non-existent and the reality is that’s not fair, because it takes years to develop into a good worker. Unfortunately because Rousey undoubtedly signed a lucrative contract to work for WWE, she won’t have the luxury of spending two years working the independent circuit before finally joining the main roster.

It’s a catch 22 situation, but is Rousey being set up for success or failure?

Only time will tell but with three weeks remaining until WrestleMania 34, Rousey will be jumping from the frying pan in the fire in quick fashion and at that point it’s sink or swim.

When it comes to the reaction from savvy professional wrestling fans, there is no third direction.

Are you excited to see Ronda Rousey make her professional wrestling debut at WrestleMania 34 and what do you expect? Sound off in the comments and let us know 

When Braun Strowman faced both Brock Lesnar and Kane at this year’s Royal Rumble there was a palpable sense that Strowman was finally set to take his place atop the WWE as one of its biggest players. Fast forward to this week’s RAW and it looks as though Braun will e part of a mid-card Tag Team title match that no one really asked for…it’s easy to class this move as a major oversight on WWE’s part for a Superstar that has garnered himself a huge following over the past year.

But what’s done is done and now the talk will turn to who will be standing alongside Braun at WrestleMania when he competes for the RAW Tag Team Championship. Here are the three Superstars that we feel have a shot at challenging for the belts with Braun…assuming he even needs a partner:

Bray Wyatt

Bray Wyatt (via Instagram @WWE)

Out of the three Superstars we will be listing, this one will be the most unlikely. It is ironic given that Braun was brought up to WWE’s main roster as a member of the Wyatt Family stable, where he was positioned as the muscle of a (somewhat) dominant group in an attempt to keep Bray Wyatt and his cult leader character fresh and relevant…yet the inexperienced and fairly uncharismatic early portrayal from Strowman was just one of the reasons that the ‘family’ faded into obscurity and eventually broke up.

With all of this in mind there is still an opportunity to be explored here, whilst Bray is in the midst of a lukewarm feud with ‘Woken’ Matt Hardy they are set to have their biggest and most extravagant bout yet at Ultimate Deletion next week on RAW. This could easily be the blow off to a feud that has not set the WWE universe alight and used to transition Bray into an intriguing pairing with his former ‘family’ member who has ascended far higher on the totem pole than the ‘Eater of Worlds.’

Lars Sullivan

Lars Sullivan (formerly Dylan Miley)

Monster Among Men? Meet Lars Sullivan. This 6 ft 3 in beast made his debut appearance for WWE’s NXT brand back at WrestleMania 31’s Axxess event in March 2015, yet he only made his television debut in April 2017 in a losing effort to the former #DIY tag team of Johnny Gargano and Tommasso Ciampa. This unstoppable monster is not only a physical presence in the ring but he is also extremely eloquent, his promo work belying his build and destroying any sort of preconceived notion that he is purely a powerhouse and nothing more.

In terms of sheer spectacle a team consisting of Sullivan and Strowman would tower over all others and could be a very different way to introduce Sullivan to the main roster, it is fair to say that the landscape of NXT is not naturally suited to a performer such as Lars and a move to the main roster could be extremely beneficial.

Elias

Photo Credit: WWE.com

Speaking of acts that work far better on the main roster…we get to our final name on the list: Elias. The ‘Drifter’ has been completely rejuvenated following his call up to the RAW brand and he has begun to build a following amongst the WWE fan base. There have been rumblings online that Elias is the early favourite to join Braun at WrestleMania and he would certainly be a good fit for the Monster, creating an odd couple dynamic and giving Elias to opportunity to hold a championship for the first time in his WWE tenure.

There are a plethora of ways in which to book an Elias/Strowman partnership, with the opportunity to help further establish Elias on the main roster before potentially building Strowman back into a program amongst the Universal Title picture.

Who would you like to see Braun team with at Mania?