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WWE Battleground Quick Picks

Tye Dillinger vs. Aiden English -- Kick-Off Show
Mike Kanellis vs. Sami Zayn
Charlotte Flair vs. Becky Lynch vs. Tamina vs. Natalya vs. Lana -- #1 Contender's Match
The Usos (c) vs. The New Day -- Smackdown Tag Team Championships
Baron Corbin vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
John Cena vs. Rusev -- Flag Match
AJ Styles (c) vs. Kevin Owens -- United States Championship
Jinder Mahal (c) vs. Randy Orton -- WWE Championship Punjabi Prison Match
Baron Corbin cashes in

-- kb

WWE Great Balls of Fire Predictions

The logo looks like a cock and balls and the name apparently makes Vince McMahon laugh so hard that it'll become a yearly PPV. But god dammit this card is pretty good. Let's take a look at what we got.

Kick-Off Show

Neville (c) vs. Akira Tozawa -- Cruiserweight Championship

Tozawa has received a nice push as the newest member of Titus Brand, but he does not seem like the guy that should finally dethrone Neville on this dominant run. All signs point to Cedric Alexander being that man. Like every cruiserweight match on PPVs, this could be match of the night. But Neville is too good.

Prediction: Neville retains


Main Card

Enzo vs. Cass

Now that is something I thought I would never write. I always thought that Big Cass would get a singles push with Enzo as his mouth piece manager. Enzo is obviously much weaker than Cass in the ring but their act could never get old so I saw no reason to break them up, but this has been wonderfully booked. A perfect betrayal to get real heat on Cass with great beat downs and promos. Unfortunately for Enzo, this should be Cass' showcase. Enzo said he wouldn't quit, so if Cass beats the shit out of him until someone needs to step in, I wouldn't be shocked.

Prediction: Big Cass


Seth Rollins vs. Bray Wyatt

This has been a typical Bray Wyatt feud that started for no reason and is filled with cryptic promos that never really make sense. Bray Wyatt is becoming a joke again for helping put other talents over, but I think this time it's his turn for the big win. Rollins has kinda gotten the best of him up to now and for that reason I'm giving this one to Bray.

Prediction: Bray Wyatt


The Miz (c) vs. Dean Ambrose -- Intercontinental Championship

Thank god these two have great chemistry in the ring and can cut promos to keep this rivalry interesting and new, because this shit has been going on forever. Ambrose has put Miz through a lot these past few weeks causing a rift with Maryse, but the Miz evened things out big time adding Axel and Bo Dallas as his two associates. I can't picture Miz losing this one with his two henchman around. He's the best champ.

Prediction: The Miz retains


Iron Man Match: Sheasaro (c) vs. The Hardy Boyz -- Raw Tag Team Championships

It's time for this feud to wrap up and the only way to do that is to have the champs retain. Even though this will be a narrow victory like every Iron Man Match, I think the 30 minutes will tire out the Hardys too much for a match against Sheamus and Cesaro who are in unreal shape with more youth. Maybe the Hardys will break here.

Prediction: Sheamus and Cesaro 


Alexa Bliss (c) vs. Sasha Banks -- Raw Women's Championship

Sasha could easily win this, but I think we've all had enough of her and Bayley holding the titles for now. I'd like to see Bliss vs. Nia Jax at Summerslam and I think Bliss will continue her hot streak of dominance here against some tough competition.

Prediction: Alexa Bliss retains


Ambulance Match: Braun Strowman vs. Roman Reigns

Ever since Strowman beat the living shit out of Roman Reigns, forcing him out of the arena in an ambulance, and THEN flipping it over, then he returned by bursting out of an ambulance and marched down to the ring to kill Roman, it seemed like the ambulance was Braun's thing. Roman has gotten too many victories over Strowman, it's time for him to get one back.

Prediction: Braun Strowman


Brock Lesnar (c) vs. Samoa Joe -- WWE Universal Championship

In a beautifully booked feud, Samoa Joe has dominated the promotion by choking out both Lesnar and Heyman. This will be one of Lesnar's best matches in a while too. But I think the moment is gunna get too big for Joe. This is only his second main event at a ppv in the WWE and he has gotten so fired up for this while Lesnar has stayed calm and cocky. Lesnar already had a losing stretch with Goldberg and I think he will more prepared than Joe will be for this moment. Gunna be a BRAWL though.

Prediction: Brock Lesnar retains


kbutter

Stranger Things Rap by Opey

WWE Money In the Bank Predictions

One of my personal favorite PPVs is back tonight with a small but pretty efficient card that might not deliver the best quality matches, but provides us with some sense of direction of where the storylines are headed this year. Match order is key tonight as the MITB Ladder Matches coming before the main title matches could heighten the drama with the possibility of a quick cash in. It'll be interesting to see but let's get to it..

Kick-Off Show

The Hype Bros vs. The Colons

The Colons stink but they've been gaining some momentum. The Hype Bros are reuniting after Ryder went down with an injury months ago. A large part of me wants to say WWE isn't going to fool around and just have Ryder and Mojo feud right away, but they deserve a title shot, and I think they're inability to capture those titles is what will drive them to their break up. For now, it's the kick-off show and the purpose of that is to get the crowd HYPED.

Prediction: The Hype Bros


Main Card

Naomi (c) vs. Lana -- Smackdown Women's Championship

Could this Lana push just be one big joke that will end with her getting waxed in the ring by Naomi, a person who has actually wrestled before? Yes. But do I think this could all just be one big joke that will end with the winner of the Women's MITB match cashing in almost immediately? YES.
There really is no way of telling which direction the company plans on going with this match, or even with anything Lana related moving forward, but I'll be wishing for a Ravishing Title Reign tonight, even if it only lasts a few minutes.

Prediction: Lana


The Usos (c) vs. The New Day -- Tag Team Championship

As the case as always been with The New Day, a tag team championship does not determine their worth and ability. The Usos are killing it with their Heel gimmick and have put together a really good reign on top with no reason to end it tonight. And if The Hype Bros do get their title shot, it would fit a lot easier to have Heel opponents, especially if it leads to their demise.

Prediction: The Usos retain


Charlotte vs. Natalya vs. Carmella vs. Tamina vs. Becky Lynch -- Women MITB Ladder Match

There's a pretty strong case here for everyone except for Tamina (unless they plan on catapulting her into the main event scene) and I guess Natalya would be kind of weird too, so neither of them.
Charlotte has a knack for making history in the new women's division and she's also the best wrestler in this, Becky Lynch continues to get overlooked despite being unreal, and Carmella has James Ellsworth as her escort and serves as the only true Heel with a legitimate shot IMO and the briefcase always works better with a Heel.
There are talks on a surprise sixth entry and if that happens then my money is on her, but until then, I'm gunna get a little bold and go with...

Prediction: Carmella


Kevin Owens vs. Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. AJ Styles vs. Baron Corbin vs. Sami Zayn -- Men's MITB Ladder Match

Owens, Nakamura, and Styles would all be lethal with the briefcase, having a championship win just three seconds away, but none of them need it as they can all get these opportunities on their own over this next year. Ziggler has the high flying ability to win, but he's still a long shot since he always blows big matches. Sami Zayn will be fun to watch but I can't see Kevin Owens letting him win.
Corbin has been knocking on the door for a while now, and it's time to give him a run with the briefcase and the belt.

Prediction: Baron Corbin


Jinder Mahal (c) vs. Randy Orton -- WWE Championship

Orton is fighting in front of his dad on Fathers Day in his home town. I think the Home Town curse claims another victim. This Jinder Mahal reign might seem like a bit much, but I think putting the belt back on Orton is even worse here. Let Jinder hold onto it for a little bit more. Maybe someone will cash in tonight, or maybe Cena will try to get it back when he returns. But Jinder still has the Bollywood Bros to help him out if Orton tries to win here.

Prediction: Jinder Mahal retains

@KButter_22

WWE Extreme Rules Preview

Let's get extreme.

Kick-Off Show

Apollo Crews vs. Kalisto

The Titus Brand is growing and Apollo Crews is now feuding with his good friend Kalisto. We could either see Apollo lose and maybe break away from Titus for a feud, or have him win and move up the main card with Titus as his coach for a better push. I don't know, let's go with Apollo winning.

Prediction: Apollo Crews


Main Card

Sasha Banks & Rich Swann vs. Alicia Fox & Noam Darr

The other day, someone pointed out that Fox and Darr act more like brother and sister than they do a couple like they're supposed to. I've also heard rumors that the only reason Vince keeps them together is because he laughs every time Darr says Alicia's last name. They're a joke. Sasha and Swann's team is just better and therefore, they should win while going back to the main card of their respective divisions.

Prediction: Banks and Swann


Neville (c) vs. Austin Aries -- Cruiserweight Championship Submission Match

Everything suggests that Aries wins this one. It's his third shot at the title and he has yet to win one of them. But I think Neville might just be that good, and if Aries wins, then Neville will need a rematch, and at that point the feud is just way too long. I expect Neville to make Aries tap here. Aries has plenty of time to try and win it later.

Prediction: Neville retains


The Hardy Boyz (c) vs. Sheasaro -- WWE Tag Team Championship Cage Match

Basically, if Sheamus and Cesaro lose here, it seems like they would have to break up, and we all remember that best of 7 series from last summer still, so we don't need that again. The Hardyz are gunna have to lose eventually and maybe we'll see them "break" soon since their opponents have been hinting at doing the job themselves. Obviously, nobody wants to see the Hardys lose here, and the cage certainly gives them the advantage, but with Enzo and Cass dealing with Enzo's attacker and The Revival recovering from injury, the division is thin. I think Jeff Hardy will send a Swanton from the top of the cage instead of going over it and blow the match. Could be wrong tho.

Prediction: Sheamus and Cesaro


Alexa Bliss (c) vs. Bayley -- WWE Women's Championship Kendo Stick on a Pole Match

Alexa Bliss is the best thing going in the Women's division and Bayley stinks. But Alexa Bliss voiced her concern over her fear that she might be too short to reach the Kendo Stick and after seeing her beat the shit out of Bayley with one recently, I think that comes into play here.
The WWE already ruined Bayley by giving her a push too early and failing to make her a legitimate underdog story, so why not give her the belt back. I think she gets her revenge on Alexa here.

Prediction: Bayley


Dean Ambrose (c) vs. The Miz -- Intercontinental Championship, no champion's advantage

After some bullshit, the rule is that the belt can no change hands on a DQ. The Miz is a snake and will get Dean Ambrose DQ'd probably by having somebody "attack" him. The Miz should also just be the Intercontinental Champ after the last run he had proving how good he is in that role. When Ambrose has a B-level belt it gets forgotten because his feuds are often bigger than the belt itself.

The Miz


Finn Balor vs. Roman Reigns vs. Bray Wyatt vs. Seth Rollins vs. Samoa Joe -- #1 Contender

Right off the bat, I think Joe and Rollins have unfinished business and will continue feuding from this, so scratch them off. Roman also has a feud to continue with Braun Strowman once he returns earlier than reported and it's already a fact that it's Reigns vs. Lesnar at Mania for the belt, so scratch him off too.
So that leaves us with Balor and Wyatt.
Both guys are fantastic choices, but unfortunately, this is to go on to get their ass beat by Brock Lesnar. Looking at it that way, I think Bray is the choice here. He can carry a feud on the mic and make himself look strong, but unlike Balor, he doesn't need to keep winning. I mean, Finn can't pull out the paint for this fight just to get his ass caved in. Plus, let's just allow Bray to strengthen his image with another championship feud, please.

Prediction: Bray Wyatt

Also..

Big Cass is 100% Enzo's attacker.

Ciao,

@KButter_22

WWE Backlash Predictions

Just like every NXT Takeover weekend, the main roster is now facing the task of trying to upstage an unreal Saturday with a PPV that has had a pretty weak build up. We have 3 titles on the line and a few feuds beginning, but the backstories behind most of them kind of lie in our own knowledge more so than the on screen action we've been given. CM Punk had a front row seat to the NXT show last night and I'm hoping the son of Chicago comes back again to see how the company he left is looking on the main roster. Ultimate troll move and I love it. Let's look at the card.

Kick-Off Show

Aiden English vs. Tye Dillinger

A fight between two jobbers makes this one a tough call. With the firing of Gotch, English pulled a Bruce Jenner by successfully transitioning into a character that is slightly different but still recognizable. Dillinger comes into tonight with a 2-0 record against his performance, but he's a crowd favorite who has made a living out of putting characters over and I think English needs a win here because why not?

Prediction: Aiden English


Main Card

Luke Harper vs. Erick Rowan

In an attempt to separate Erick Rowan from the Wyatt Family, we will now see him face his former teammate. Rowan has definitely become more of a weirdo, but compared to Harper he can't be viewed as a legitimate contender. We're now seeing Harper move into the fringe of the main title picture with people starting to recognize his talent, and this match shouldn't be used to stop any type of momentum for the big picture. Especially since Harper already owns a win in this matchup.

Prediction: Luke Harper


Baron Corbin vs. Sami Zayn

Sami Zayn is a loser and Baron Corbin is not. Sami Zayn always loses the big one and Corbin deserves a bigger push. That's exactly why Corbin will probably beat the shit out of Zayn just to lose on a roll up and piss us off.

Prediction: Sami Zayn


Naomi, Charlotte, & Becky Lynch vs. Natalya, Carmella, & Tamina

Charlotte as a face is clearly all an act to try and get even closer to Naomi's belt. But when does she turn on them? The team of faces is so clearly the alpha here, but will Charlotte stick around to make sure her team wins? If Charlotte ditches her team, then the Welcoming Committee could win because of the numbers, but in this one, I'm just gunna pick talent and assume a Charlotte turn post match.

Prediction: Naomi, Charlotte, & Becky Lynch


The Usos (c) vs. Breezango -- Tag Team Championships

I appreciate the push Breezango has gotten, but the new look Usos have been rolling and that shouldn't be stopped by a team like this. Expect an easy win with a better match up with American Alpha or The New Day on the horizon.

Prediction: The Usos retain


Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Dolph Ziggler

Welcome to the big leagues kid! We've seen Ziggler carry the feud leading up to Nakamura's debut and the obvious debut win might not be so obvious at all. Expect a full showcase of Nakamura's talents and a cheap win from Ziggler to kick start a running feud until it's time for Nakamura to focus in on a championship.

Prediction: Dolph Ziggler


Kevin Owens (c) vs. AJ Styles -- United States Championship

This is one of those where we should be happy with either result because both of these men are capable of carrying any championship and making it as elite as it gets. That being said, Owens has really been running with this "Face of America" shtick and unless they want this to be a long feud, I can't picture him dropping it. Even tho KO after a title loss is as good as it gets. I'd expect Owens to do whatever it takes to win here, possibly a dirty win to keep Styles away from the loss too.

Prediction: Kevin Owens retains


Randy Orton (c) vs. Jinder Mahal -- WWE Championship

If I were in charge, Orton wouldn't even be champ right now. I wish it was Bray so bad. But the world isn't perfect. The thing about Orton tho, is that at this point, he doesn't need the belt to look elite. And Jinder has been looking ruthless lately, especially with the Bollywood Bros helping him out. I'm predicting a cheap win and a quick title reign for Jinder to keep him satisfied.

Prediction: Jinder Mahal

WWE Payback Preview

Payback has always been a good PPV because it's literally the payoff show for everything that went down at Mania, but this one is a little weird because of the superstar shake up the other week. We have Wyatt and Orton fighting a Smackdown match. Owens and Jericho fighting to see who takes the US Title to Smackdown. It just has a real feel. I think over the next month we're gunna see a lot of development with various new feuds and rising stars as we truly move into 2017 for the WWE. But before moving ahead, let's check out tonight's card.

Kick-Off Show

Miz TV featuring Finn Balor

A lot of talk about this becoming a match. If so, there's no way Finn loses a clean one. The Miz is the top contender for Ambrose's Intercontinental Championship so maybe this is a way for Finn to get himself into the title scene as well. If they do fight..

Prediction: Finn Balor


Enzo & Cass vs. Gallows & Anderson

In a match up that will likely decide the next contenders for the Hardy's championship. Gallows and Anderson had their title run so I think it's time to give Enzo and Cass their first real shot. Hopefully for a fun match with the Hardy Boyz.

Prediction: Enzo & Cass



Main Card

Neville (c) vs. Austin Aries -- Cruiserweight Championship

These two had what was arguably the match of the night at Mania and are sure to repeat that success again. It's a hard call on whether Neville can win again or if Aries can get that win that has been expected since his huge return. Neville has been an unreal heel champion and losing a highly competitive match won't hurt Aries at all.

Prediction: Neville retains


The Hardy Boyz (c) vs. Sheasaro -- Raw Tag Team Championships

Sheamus and Cesaro have really pulled it together as a team as of late, but it's far too early to take the titles off of the Hardys, especially to what is still a makeshift tag team. Save it for a full time team and then bring back the Broken gimmick.

Prediction: Hardys retain


Seth Rollins vs. Samoa Joe

It was a surprise to many that Joe didn't interfere in the Mania match, but now we're finally getting the payoff we've been waiting for since Joe injured Rollins' knee. I don't think Rollins will immediately compete with Lesnar for the title so we might be seeing this rivalry for a bit. That's why I think Samoa Joe might actually squash Rollins tonight. Could be a little bold but Rollins' new finisher sucks and even though he's my homie I gotta put him on the bench for one PPV.

Prediction: Samoa Joe


Kevin Owens (c) vs. Chris Jericho -- United States Championship

The winner of this match goes to Smackdown with the title. It's known that Jericho is leaving soon. Owens is better and has more of a reason to win and become a face of Smackdown. Easy.

Prediction: Kevin Owens retains


Bayley (c) vs. Alexa Bliss -- Raw Women's Championship

Alexa Bliss is actually my girlfriend and I'm sick and tired of Bayley and Sasha Banks cutting promos about their childhood dreams. They have nice stories and all, but I couldn't be more done with those two if I tried. Bliss kills everybody on the mic and was an unreal champ on Smackdown. Get this shit off of Bayley and give it to someone who will give it life.

Prediction: Alexa Bliss


Randy Orton vs. Bray Wyatt -- House of Horrors Match

Maybe I'm just behind, but I have no fucking clue what this match is. At the last second they're changing this to a non title match which makes me think Wyatt could win this. I was honestly shocked by his loss at Mania and hate how he can never get that one win he needs to get over. Yeah, he was the champ but did that really feel like it was enough? Give him the win then send him to Raw to run shit at the top and that'll start with him beating Dean Ambrose in his first feud on the red brand.

Prediction: Bray Wyatt


Roman Reigns vs. Braun Strowman

Roman Reigns actually beat Strowman clean -- which was bullshit -- so Braun responded by beating the everliving shit out of Reigns and cracking his ribs and separating his shoulder in the biggest ass kicking I've ever seen as a WWE fan. I mean, he literally flipped the guys ambulance on his side. With Roman recovering just in time for the match, he has the injury excuse to fall back on for a loss, which allows Braun to get his win back and Roman to lose without looking bad. One of these guys SHOULD be moving on to face Lesnar who we haven't seen in forever..

Prediction: Braun Strowman

#TheUltimateThrillRide

Your Wrestlemania Results Ahead of Schedule.

Andre the Giant Battle Royal

Don't let the Battle Royal aspect make you think Braun isn't winning this. Corbin debuted and won it last year and now he's getting a title shot a year later. Strowman is coming into this already established so this should be the start of a big year for him. Hopefully they have some good call ups

Prediction: Braun Strowman



Neville (c) vs. Austin Aries -- Cruiserweight Championship

Two guys like Neville and Austin Aries fighting in Orlando could easily steal the show tonight. This is a battle for cruiserweight supremacy in a feud that should headline this division for a while. Neville has been the top dog for a while and seems like the pick here, but I'm gunna take my chances with Austin Aries getting his Mania Moment early into his WWE career.

Prediction: Austin Aries



Dean Ambrose (c) vs. Baron Corbin -- Intercontinental Championship

As I mentioned ^^, Corbin debuted about a year ago at the last Mania and now he's here. For a while it seemed like Corbin's call up was yet another waste of a Battle Royal winner, but after a few months of figuring himself out, Corbin is finally ready to contend. The brand split was huge for giving him more exposure with a bigger role.
Ambrose, on the other hand, is a well established vet who has never needed a belt on him to remain relevant. It's time for Corbin to win that first belt with the company.

Prediction: Baron Corbin



Alexa Bliss (c) vs. The Field -- Smackdown Women's Championship Open Challenge

Daniel Bryan made this an open challenge which makes this an interesting one for my girlfriend Alexa. I could see an Asuka debut but she did just retain the title on NXT so I don't know if they'd rush her to the main roster like that unless they're really trying to hide the surprise. That being said, Naomi will be back to claim her title that she never lost in her hometown and that's the direction I see this going.

Prediction: Naomi



Gallows & Anderson (c) vs. Sheasaro vs. Enzo & Cass -- Raw Tag Team Championships

I have a lot of title changes tonight, which is probably a mistake on my part, but having Enzo & Cass down in Orlando where they made a real name for themselves, in a ladder match, I think the pick is easy.
Enzo & Cass are definitely the weakest team of the three with Enzo's ring ability not being up to par for this match. But with it being a ladder match, Enzo suddenly gains an advantage.
Expect Enzo to grab the belts and new champs to be crowned.

Prediction: Enzo & Cass



John Cena & Nikki Bella vs. The Mizanins

The most well built up match will come to fruition tonight. The Goat and John Cena have been cutting A+ promos on each other with Miz and Maryse showcasing their fine acting with incredible performances as their opponents.
This could be Nikki's last match and Cena is gravitating towards another part time schedule, so I think WWE's couple wins this one.

Prediction: Cena and Bella w/ a proposal



Bayley (c) vs. Charlotte vs. Sasha Banks vs. Nia Jax -- Raw Women's Championship Fatal Four-Way Elimination

It's in elimination match, so Bayley has more of a chance to retain, but her title reign is due to end tonight.
Nia Jax isn't ready to be champ.
Charlotte has won too much.
I think this comes down to Sasha and Bayley to get a program going with these two.

Prediction: Sasha Banks



Chris Jericho (c) vs. Kevin Owens -- United States Championship

It's almost weird seeing these two fight with JERICHO being champ mostly because I forgot he had a championship. Jericho is going on tour soon so he'll be leaving. What better way to go out than by putting over Kevin Owens at Mania? I know the rivalry is heated, but you can tell behind the scenes these two love and respect each other. Would love to see The Authority help push Owens to being the double champ.

Prediction: Kevin Owens



AJ Styles vs. Shane McMahon

AJ Styles really is the best wrestler in the world and having him face Shane McMahon in kind of a throwaway match is a little disappointing. But I think the fact that nothing is really on the line means they're gunna take a lot of risks and big bumps. They built a giant ramp, a roller coaster, and a giant ring that overhangs the actual ring. Shane's jumping off of something. At least give me a coast to coast with a trash can or something. Styles has to win tho.

Prediction: AJ Styles



Triple H vs. Seth Rollins -- Unsanctioned Match

Listen, I know this is about to get wild so just stay with me. 
I know Seth Rollins HAS to win here, but I don't think he does it. For the past 6 years, HHH has alternated winning years. And there are like no rules here. And Samoa Joe will be lurking.
House shows do suggest that Finn Balor gets involved and helps Rollins win, and that is probably gunna happen. But I think Balor is gunna join the Authority. Balor LOVES Triple H. LOVES him. Imagine if he joined the team with Owens? Don't believe it just watch. 
Or imagine if Finn Balor helped Rollins then Shinsuke debuts with The Authority?? lmao

Prediction: Triple H



Goldberg (c) vs. Brock Lesnar -- Universal Championship

This match will be like 7 minutes and Lesnar will become the champ. Take it out of the ring to make it interesting or something.

Prediction: Brock Lesnar



Bray Wyatt (c) vs. Randy Orton -- WWE World Championship

Randy Orton's master plan to infiltrate the Wyatt Family and win the championship will probably pay off here, but I don't want it to. Somebody has to retain a title tonight, so why not let it be Brotha Bray? Guy deserves a run and Orton has won enough championships as it is. Luke Harper will cost somebody this match. Hopefully Wyatt can control him this time.

Prediction: Bray Wyatt retains



Roman Reigns vs. The Undertaker

I hope this main events because Roman Reigns is about to retire Taker and it might as well be the match of the night. A Reigns win could also kill the mood of the entire arena ruining the other matches in terms of reactions and if it's really Takers retirement he deserves the proper send off.
BUT FUCK ROMAN REIGNS.

Prediction: THE UNDERTAKER



Also watch for a KURT ANGLE appearance as well as the BROKEN HARDYS. SOMEBODY HAS TO MAKE AN APPEARANCE AND I KNOW THEY WILL THEY HAVE TO. DOES SHINSUKE NAKAMURA DEBUT??????

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WWE Fastlane Preview

It's been a couple weeks over a year now, but Fastlane was the first event I wrote about on the Brief so I'm considering this my anniversary blog and will use that as extra motivation while writing this. It's basically like I'm playing on my birthday, absolute lock for a home run with an over/under of incorrect picks set at 0.5. I recommend you hammer the under.

It seems like this isn't really an unpopular opinion anymore, but Raw is starting to become the shittier show compared to Smackdown. Obviously Raw still has the better roster with more depth in terms of top stars. But storyline wise, Smackdown is blowing them out of the water. Smackdown almost has that feel from when I was 12 with deeply woven storylines, while Raw is still obsessed with the Authority angle that's been running for three years now. But it does have some room for something great and tonight will give a great sense of direction for it.

Let's check out the card.

Kick Off Show

Rich Swann & Akira Tozawa vs. The Brian Kendrick & Noam Dar

Bro I didn't even know this was a match. I know Brian Kendrick is a dickhead who has been attacking Tozawa and I will always pick the faces in a kick off match, so let's ride with that.

Prediction: Swann & Tozawa

Sasha Banks vs. Nia Jax

Everything about this screams a Sasha Banks win. She is the prodigal daughter of Boston, she is a face of the women's division who always gets her win back, and Nia Jax has absolutely demolished her these past few weeks. But I refuse to believe that Nia Jax will suffer her first lost at a PPV like Fastlane. No thanks.

So as long as there is a clean finish..

Prediction: Nia Jax

Gallows & Anderson (c) vs. Enzo & Cass -- Tag Team Championships

I have legitimate pride for the rebuild of The Club. They were dead in the water after a failed comedy career but now stand atop the tag division. Beautiful. But now they face a challenge going up against Enzo & Cass, two of the biggest crowd favorites in the company.

But the thing is, those two have never held the titles at any level between NXT and the main roster, and are a tandem that can handle a loss, especially with the belts on the line.

You have to give Gallows & Anderson some more burn with the belts and wait until at least Mania for them to drop them. Give Enzo & Cass the win in Orlando's NXT heavy crowd. 

Prediction: Gallows & Anderson retain

Neville (c) vs. Jack Gallagher -- Cruiserweight Championship

Let my man Neville eat forever. Guy is Puppa to every cruiserweight right now and I don't want it to stop. Gallagher is cold as fuck but his time can come when Neville ever decides to retire. Maybe he'll do a fresh umbrella trick.

Prediction: Neville retains

Samoa Joe vs. Sami Zayn

These guys have worked together in the past and it was underwhelming when you consider how big of a match this seems like. But that was in NXT, and we're in the big leagues now buddy. 

If you're into watching people die in real time, then tune into this match cuz it will be an absolute wash and a half. Samoa Joe was called up to kill people and I'm pretty sure Sami Zayn has a clause in his contract where he isn't allowed to win matches. Easy pick.

Prediction: Samoa Joe

Bayley (c) vs. Charlotte Flair -- Women's Championship

Charlotte has never lost a singles match on a PPV and the Women's Championship is a legitimate red hot potato. I think WWE fucked up having Bayley win on Raw and not at Mania, but I'm sure they have a planned direction to follow that won't be cool at all. Let's see Charlotte extend her streak and then lose the belt on Raw tomorrow.

Prediction: Charlotte

Roman Reigns vs. Braun Strowman

Listen, I know where this is heading, and I don't like it one bit. My biggest fear is that Braun Strowman has had this dominant build just to be handed off the Roman Reigns to give him a big win heading into his Mania match with Undertaker. Mark my words, I will puke on myself if Braun Strowman loses clean. But that's where Taker comes into play. I don't think there is a fucking chance Roman Reigns wins this one. Whether it's a no contest, or a Strowman win, I think Taker comes in and fucks Roman Reigns' day up. I truly think that this match will spill to the outside of the ring and more and end up being a draw, but for the sake of a prediction and my hatred of Roman Reigns, I need to see Strowman pin that man.

Prediction: Braun Strowman

Kevin Owens (c) vs. Goldberg -- Universal Championship

I am so against this Goldberg run. I think I've made it clear that I'm a big Owens guy, and I truly despise part timers, especially when two of them will be main eventing WrestleMania, but here is my theory.

There are too many possibilities for an interference not to have one, I will list them..

1. Brock Lesnar attacks Goldberg

Lesnar has been sonned by Bill too many times now to not fuck him out of a championship opportunity. Could he come in and cost him the match?

2. Chris Jericho

Jericho hasn't been on TV since he was taken out by Owens at the Festival of Friendship and this isn't a situation where he just returns on a normal Monday Night Raw. So does he come out and cost Owens the belt? Or does he attack him for a DQ? A disqualification would be a weird move in a main event, so I don't know about that. But one thing that has stuck with me, is that at the FoF, Y2J was very adamant with saying that Owens WILL beat Goldberg, and despite the break up, I feel as if that still carries come legit weight. Call me crazy..

3. Triple H/Samoa Joe

As random as it might be, you have to remember that Triple H did hand Owens the Universal Title, and there hasn't been much of a follow up from that. 

In his last promo on Raw, KO really emphasized how this will be the evolution of Kevin Owens, and as deep as I might be looking into it, could he have been hinting at a new age version of Evolution with Triple H and Samoa Joe? Definitely a Besse's Bold Prediction Brought to you by Butterfinger, but crazier things could happen so give it a chance.

Regardless, something tells me that the inevitable Owens squash isn't as set in stone as everyone might think. I mean, the WWE can't just pick the chalk on everything or else that would get boring. So I'm going to roll with my guys like I always do and pick the upset.

Prediction: Kevin Owens retains

#DORK is Moving!

WWE Elimination Chamber Preview

Smackdown Live has been blessed with having a brand exclusive Elimination Chamber PPV this year. That's big stuff because so far, Smackdown's PPVs have been slightly underwhelming. Mostly because Cena has been gone but also because the lower card matches have been pretty weak IMO, and to be honest, I think that still stands, but Elimination Chambers are some of my favorite matches in the WWE and tonight's will be so good that as long as the other matches are watchable, we are good.
Also, to anyone who said I couldn't predict big PPVs.. read my Royal Rumble preview and reevaluate your life. Bitch.

Kick-Off

Mojo Rawley vs. Curt Hawkins

Bruh, Curt Hawkins is a jobber and Mojo has been getting some type of push that involved him making the Royal Rumble but not Seth Rollins.. still salty. But this is a kick off match and the face typically wins to pump up the crowd and who is better for that job than Mojo? Give me Gronk's best friend all day.

Prediction: Mojo Rawley


Main Card

Apollo Crews & Kalisto vs. Dolph Ziggler -- Handicap Match

Dolph Ziggler loves talking himself into holes. Guy gets pissed about a lack of a push and then pisses off the guys in charge of giving him that push. This time, he threw it out there that he could beat Kalisto and Crews at the same time (after attacking them individually) and now he has his wish.
The thing about this, however, is an easy 2 on 1 win seems too practical. I think Crews or Kalisto will turn on the other and cost them the match, allowing Ziggler to build on this heel run.

Prediction: Dolph Ziggler


Nikki Bella vs. Natalya

Natalya has been a bitch lately and Nikki Bella needs to get her revenge for everything her Total Divas co star has done to her lately. Should be a good match but and easy win for Nikki, especially heading into her Wrestlemania retirement party.

Prediction: Nikki Bella


Tag Team Turmoil Match -- Smackdown Tag Team Championships

Alright, so we have American Alpha, The Usos, Breezango, The Vaudevillains, Rhyno & Slater, and The Ascension all crammed into the Chamber. Breezango, not a chance. Rhyno and Slater will never hold the belts again, The Vaudevillains are trash and everyone hates them, so that leaves us with three reasonable options. American Alpha could retain. They definitely deserve it. Or we could get a new Uso run. They've been out of the title scene for a while and haven't gotten a run as the tough heels they are now. But also, don't sleep on The Ascension. I swear they're on the rise. I killed it with my Rumble Predictions and can afford to take a risk with this one..

Prediction: The Ascension


Becky Lynch vs. Mickie James

The way I'm looking at this one is that you can't run that whole masked man angle to gas up James' return after a long ass break just to have her lose her first match back. This is a feud that could run on for a while and in order to give Mickie some credibility, give her the win. Don't be like Sting and have him come in to take pins from younger guys to put them over. Keep her around.

Prediction: Mickie James


Luke Harper vs. Randy Orton

This match could go one of two ways. Have Orton beat Harper to basically kill him off in the Wyatt family angle, or have Harper beat Orton to establish himself as someone who doesn't need the family. I think Erick Rowan could get involved tonight, but not in this match. I'll take the Royal Rumble winner in this one, but not confidently.

Prediction: Randy Orton


Alexa Bliss (c) vs. Naomi -- Women's Championship

I admittedly haven't been following this feud very closely at all, but from everything I've read about it, the more I think that now isn't the time for Naomi to win the championship. With Nikki Bella out of the title picture, Becky Lynch and Mickie James tied up in a program, and Carmella dating James Ellsworth, I think this feud can stretch to Wrestlemania where Naomi can get a well deserved Mania moment.

Prediction: Alexa Bliss retains


John Cena (c) vs. AJ Styles vs. Bray Wyatt vs. Baron Corbin vs. The Miz vs. Dean Ambrose -- Elimination Chamber -- WWE Championship

Let's not beat around the bush here. We all know I picked Orton as my Rumble winner and there's only one reason for that to happen. Let's give Bray Wyatt a fucking belt and let him run with the title until Mania. Literally nobody deserves it more than that guy. But the chamber is also a great place to lock up some other Mania matches.
For example, let's see The Miz eliminate Cena to set up the Cena/Bella vs. Miz/Maryse tag team match at Mania.
Or maybe have Baron Corbin start feuding with Dean Ambrose for the Intercontinental championship.
Just some ideas.
BUT my Besse's Be Bolder Prediction Brought to You by Butterfinger is that Erick Rowan will find his way into the newly designed Chamber and help brother Bray win the title.
I see it happening. You see it happening. I went like 7-1 at the Rumble. Let's ride.

Prediction: Bray Wyatt

Little Besse

#DORK 90: Super Bowl Madness

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Who to Watch in the Royal Rumble

The WWE returns to the Alamo Dome for the first time in 20 years bringing us the Royal Rumble. Unlike these past two years where Roman Reigns and Triple H won in the least shocking way possible, the 2017 field is wide open. WWE brought in guys like the Undertaker, Brock Lesnar, and Goldberg to bolster the entry list and looking at the 22 confirmed entries and reading about the possibilities for the 8 surprise spots, there are literally so many feasible directions that the WWE could go in. To make things easier, I'm just going to break down who I think are the 5 most realistic winners for tonight's Rumble.
I also covered the rest of the card here.

5. Samoa Joe/Finn Balor

One of these guys are coming out tonight and whichever one it is is guaranteed to make a huge splash. Balor is obviously a bit of a long shot because he is still working his way back from the injury that cost him the Universal Title, but if he were to enter the Rumble he is immediately a serious contender for obvious reasons.
Samoa Joe is in the same boat as Balor was before his call up. He's done everything there is to do on NXT and is too good to not become a huge factor on the main roster. He's fought everywhere and is an indie legend waiting for his shot on the big stage.
If either of these guys come out, don't be shocked if they spend most of the fight in the ring.

4. Chris Jericho

This is likely one of Jericho's last full time runs with the company and you are literally blind if you don't see the Wrestlemania showdown between him and Kevin Owens coming. I guess Jericho's fate in this match really comes down to whether or not Kevin Owens can defeat Roman Reigns earlier in the night.
If Y2J does win, the angle of Owens trying to convince him to go after the Smackdown title could be hilarious. These two are definitely fighting at Mania so why not put some gold on the line? It would be sweet, just like Butterfingers. Speaking of which.. my Besse's Be Bolder Prediction Brought to You by Butterfinger is something along the lines of Jericho being stuck in the shark cage after the Universal Championship match and that lasting until mid rumble. Then he finally gets out, comes in fresh, and wills his way to a victory........


3. Braun Strowman

Duh, this guy is a fucking animal. He is in search of a new angle and why not make it his first title chase?


2. The Undertaker

The Undertaker isn't here to be another entry in this match. He is in search of his Wrestlemania opponent and whether that comes from his elimination or his victory, tonight is the night that we find out his role in The Grandest Stage of Them All.


1. Randy Orton

You heard it here first, this is my official pick to win the Royal Rumble. My second bold prediction of the night is that Orton wins the Rumble, securing his spot in the main event of Wrestlemania (of course, the main event before the main event of Lesnar and Goldberg) and then Bray Wyatt finally wins the title at Elimination Chamber to set up the true rivalry that we've been waiting on ever since Orton joined the Wyatts.
He has been slowly moving up the rankings for betting odds and I can only believe that there is a true reason for it.
ALSO, if this exact scenario happens but in reverse (like, Wyatt wins) I'm counting it as a win for me.

Goldberg and Lesnar seem like obvious favorites to win but they are 100% eliminating each other and continuing their rivalry so it isn't even worth mentioning.

Other Things to Watch

• The returns of HBK and Kurt Angle.
• Rey Mysterio making an appearance?
• How does Kofi Kingston avoid elimination this year?

Let's see how tonight goes. I have high hopes.

WWE Royal Rumble Match Card Preview

We have a TON on the card tonight so let's get right into it. I'm splitting this into two blogs, one for the regular matches and one for the Rumble itself because I have some serious thoughts on that one.

Main Card

Cesaro & Sheamus (c) vs. Karl Anderson & Luke Gallows -- Raw Tag Team Championships

Anderson and Gallows must have the most unbelievable patience to be in the spot that they are right now. After their title chase against The New Day they pretty much had their credibility stripped away from them by way of terrible comedy based around sexual humor but have found themselves back in the title scene.
The only problem is Cesaro and Sheamus spent too much time building up to this title run starting with the best of 7 series, to the championship win, to slowly working their way towards a friendship. And at this point in time, stripping the titles away from them would just make all of that seem like a waste. I guess a loss could bring them closer together if that was the direction that Creative wanted. Or it could jump start another feud between the two, but I think we've all had enough of that.
I feel like I've said this a million times but I'll say it again.. Gallows and Anderson will win the titles eventually, just not today.

Prediction: Cesaro & Sheamus retain


Becky Lynch, Naomi & Nikki Bella vs. Alexa Bliss, Natalya & Micki James

The classic "throw a bunch of feuds into one tag team match and see where it goes," gotta love it.
We have the never ending Total Divas battle of Nikki vs. Natalya, Naomi and Alexa Bliss following up on their heated exchange, and Becky Lynch trying to right the ship after Micki James cost her the match against Alexa Bliss.
Naturally, the heels should win to build some credibility, but I think Naomi will pin Alexa Bliss to start moving closer to a title shot. Micki James is probably the superstar to really keep an eye on tho, because she is such a wild card and I could easily see her already turning on her teammates this early into her return.

Prediction: Becky Lynch, Naomi & Nikki Bella


Sasha Banks vs. Nia Jax

As good as the matches have been, I'm not ready for Round 27 of Flair vs. Banks. We need more legitimacy in the women's division and the only way to do that is to put over some of the superstars waiting in the wings. Nia Jax is a fucking monster and she has been beating the shit out of Sasha lately. In my opinion, this match should be a wash and Nia Jax should continue to climb the rankings with her first true win in the WWE.

Prediction: Nia Jax


Rich Swann (c) vs. Neville -- Cruiserweight Championship

Rich Swann has done well as the champ. He's given good matches and done well in his segments, but the cruiserweight has been missing something.. at least until Neville returned and turned on his friend, cementing himself as an official heel. Neville has been ignored for too long but with the new weight class it's time for him to win a championship and thrive for a while. I think Swann vs. Neville will continue on and provide us with plenty of entertainment watching the two best wrestlers in the division (fuck TJ Perkins) fight over the belt. But Neville's time is definitely now barring any ridiculous turns.

Prediction: Neville


Charlotte Flair (c) vs. Bayley -- Raw Women's Championship

Much like Sami Zayn, Bayley will play the underdog for most of her career with the WWE. She's a great wrestler whose wins and losses will never lose her fans. But Charlotte is just better and she also does not lose at PPVs. Bayley isn't ready to become the champ and doing  so would erase all of this work to build up sympathy for her. Easy pick.

Prediction: Charlotte retains


Kevin Owens (c) vs. Roman Reigns -- Universal Championship

As much as I love Kevin Owens, it's hard to ignore the fact that he was legitimately gifted the championship and has yet to have a true convincing win as champion ever since he became best friends Chris Jericho. Reigns and Owens have fought numerous times and Reigns has clearly had the upper hand only to have wins snatched away from him with outside interference from Y2J. But this time around, Jericho will be locked in a shark cage suspended above the ring. This stipulation suggests that Reigns will finally get Owens back, but I have a rule for myself to not pick Roman if I don't have to. I'm not ready for Owens' run to be over but I am ready to move on from this feud and start building towards Jericho vs. Owens at Mania. Owens should get this win to prove that he doesn't need help to be a champ. BUT I'm not opposed to Jericho snaking his way out of the cage to help him out, but I feel like an Owens win will end this feud and move us in a different direction.

Prediction: Kevin Owens retains


AJ Styles (c) vs. John Cena -- WWE Championship

This match is already the match of the year. Cena is back and it's time for him to get a win over Styles in singles competition. These two have yet to put up a dud in the ring in my eyes, and despite this being the Royal Rumble (which will be incredible this year), this is THE match. What's been so refreshing about this rivalry is Cena finally dropping his act as the good boy and not holding back with his words to Styles comparing their journeys to the main event in the WWE.
AJ Styles is probably the better pick to win this one just because I think he is currently the best wrestler in the company both in the ring and on the mic. But Cena has to catch Flair eventually and having him lose another one to AJ Styles would kind of be the nail in the coffin for him with this and with nobody else really too deserving of the belt, I think Cena finally gets that win back.

Prediction: John Cena

Now onto the Rumble...

#DORK 89: Dork Oscars

Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi

#DORK 88: 2017 Movie Preview

#DORK 87: Podcast Announcement

Justice League - November 17