Smark Out Moment

After a while of speculation, it has been made official that John Cena's final match will take place at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at WWE Saturday Night's Main Event XLII.

Previously, there had been rumors that the event would take place in Boston and could be called Ruthless Aggression, calling back to John Cena's debut in the company where he helped make that phrase something to base an entire era of WWE after. Alas, that is officially not true anymore, and whatever reasoning for WWE to go in this direction, they've made this decision.

Unfortunately.

I'll admit, I'm someone who cares more about pay-per-view names than the average viewer. I've written countless articles about old names they should bring back in various ways (like how it's crazy WWE hasn't done a SuperBrawl special or Fall Brawl, or how Breaking Point was a great name) and I've talked on the podcast ad nauseam about how things like Smackville were stupid. Ruthless Aggression isn't exactly the most fired up I'd ever be for an event's name, and the show's title frequently has no bearing whatsoever on the card itself unless it is something specific like Royal Rumble or Money in the Bank, but there is inherent weight to some of that regardless of how WWE likes to overlook it at times.

This is why Saudi Arabia doesn't want "Super WrestleMania" or "Wrestlepalooza", but they want the actual canon "WrestleMania" (again, unfortunately), and at this point, calling John Cena's last match to be in a premium live event entirely dedicated to a tribute to him would be very fitting. The name can be repurposed down the line for other things, and I'm sure they have it trademarked, so why not? This isn't "Return of the Funker" from ECW. And it's John Cena of all people. He's on the upper echelon of company guys for all time.

Saturday Night's Main Event doesn't have any zing to it anymore. The old school vibe has lost its flavor already since it airs more than quarterly and doesn't feature legends talent. Now, it isn't even on NBC anymore, after WWE's streaming deal with Peacock changed once they switched to ESPN+. The benefit of that is how this likely won't have a time limit to it that will result in Cena's retirement speech (if he does one) getting cut off like Goldberg's. However, that means this will just be treated like a traditional Peacock pay-per-view that we've seen over the years, meaning we'll still get commercials and it won't even have the benefit of people watching it on network television. Less people will be watching this now than before, as some people switched to ESPN+ and dropped Peacock since that will only be essentially featuring NXT and SNME.

So if this is just a regular event and not Saturday Night's Main Event, why bother calling it that? Why not just call it WWE Ruthless Aggression and call it a day?

I think the problem lies in rights and trademarks, and I think NXT No Mercy was just an indication of that.

Lately, WWE has been advertising the NXT events without the NXT branding. Instead, they've been having things like "WWE Heatwave" and "WWE New Year's Evil", rather than "NXT Vengeance Day" and "NXT Roadblock". But they switched WWE No Mercy, which had just a WWE logo on it, to NXT No Mercy. I feel like that's because their deal with Peacock is to run only NXT events and Saturday Night's Main Event, and if they were to air something that is just "WWE ____" (such as WWE Crown Jewel), it would violate their agreement with ESPN to air their true main roster pay-per-view content strictly through ESPN+.

They probably can't legally call this event WWE Ruthless Aggression, but they can just run the exact same template with graphics and marquee titling that says "WWE Saturday Night's Main Event: John Cena's Final Match" instead. That would mean there really isn't a reason to call this "WWE Saturday Night's Main Event: Ruthless Aggression" either, as you can't get more of a specific "this is to honor John Cena" tribute than having his name in the title of the event.

But herein lies the potential benefit of this. We might be back in our In Your House era, where WWE had those events and would give them subtitles to differentiate them.

Otherwise, who is going to remember Saturday Night's Main Event 43 compared to 42? But if we take the naming conventions of "In Your House: Mind Games" and apply this, we could have upcoming events with subtitles like "WWE Saturday Night's Main Event: Rage in the Cage" again.

I, for one, call for WWE SNME: Bash at the Beach, WWE SNME: Gold Rush, WWE SNME: Fully Loaded and so much more to make a comeback, and for WWE to experiment with other names like they did during the In Your House era. "Beware of Dog" is a cooler subtitle to go with to help remember which show is which instead of just tossing it out there as another Saturday Night's Main Event.

At least "John Cena's Final Match" gets put on this as a subtitle. WWE should keep that idea going forward. 

All Elite Wrestling released its first console video game outing, AEW: Fight Forever, on June 28, 2023. There was a lot of buzz surrounding AEW: Fight Forever initially, as it was the first licensed professional wrestling game outside of the WWE umbrella in over a decade. Promising a pick-up-and-play control scheme that would hearken back to the glory days of WWF No Mercy on the Nintendo 64, Fight Forever delivered on that particular promise, but it does so at the cost of presenting an overall package that feels generally behind the times as opposed to a nostalgic callback to the boom period of professional wrestling games.

To be fair to AEW: Fight Forever and the team behind the game, they had the unfair task of delivering a high-level video game, all while the brand on which the game is based was less than 5 years old and actively undergoing significant transformations and growing pains. For those unfamiliar, AEW is a professional wrestling promotion that began in 2019. Since its inception, the promotion has been branded as the first major North American alternative to WWE since the closure of World Championship Wrestling in 2001.

The action in a typical AEW match features high-speed action, numerous athletic maneuvers, and multi-man chaos, and it has been that way since the beginning. Therefore, when the video game celebrating this new company is released without features like multi-man Ladder Matches—a match type that has been a staple in games since 2000—it's a significant flaw that affects the game's ability to accurately recreate the AEW experience.

In that same vein, a regular part of a highly anticipated AEW match is the display of "Fighting Spirit" and the ability for wrestlers to kick out of their opponent's finishing move even after 20-plus minutes of combat. This not only keeps the match going but gets fans on the edge of their seats and upsets veteran talking heads who are easily displeased when wrestling is not as it was "back in their day." In AEW: Fight Forever, matches are over as quickly as they begin, with one finishing maneuver being all it takes to end any given contest in under five moments. Something like this is utterly unacceptable to anyone who wants to simulate what they enjoy about their favorite wrestling company accurately.

Entrances are another area where AEW: Fight Forever comes up short, quite literally, if we're being honest. Elaborate entrances are a fan-favorite part of the professional wrestling package. However, thanks to the insistence on making Fight Forever a more arcade-esque experience, the entrances are brief clips that, at times, are shorter than 60 seconds. Fans are given the ability to control pyro and special effects of that nature in the game. Still, it's not enough to overcome the shortness of the actual entrances, which significantly hinders the ability to simulate the true AEW experience properly.

The issues boil down to a disconnect in philosophy between the type of crowd All Elite Wrestling wants to attract with their television programming and the type of audience AEW Games expects to gravitate toward their game. AEW's slogan is "Where The Best Wrestle." AEW pounds its chest on the philosophy that, while WWE is too concerned with being "mainstream," AEW is for the hardcore wrestling fan, the sickos, if you will. On the other hand, AEW Games aimed to create an experience for casual, potentially lapsed, wrestling fans. Ultimately, the clash in philosophies has resulted in a disjointed experience, but this is not the only area where fans have felt let down by AEW's first console outing.

The DLC rollout has also received pushback.

AEW: Fight Forever did an excellent job in keeping its game up to date with the promotion's ever-changing roster. Downloadable content has allowed names such as Swerve Strickland, Adam "Cope" Copeland, Samoa Joe, Jay White, and others to be included in the game, despite Copeland's arrival coming well after Fight Forever was initially released in June 2023. However, each DLC package has come with a new price tag, and the overall price of the complete video game continues to soar, with some early players feeling that the core experience of the game just doesn't warrant continuous purchases.

So, how can AEW Games learn from its mistakes and make its sophomore outing a game worthy of being remembered? It's not as difficult as one may think, especially if they build on the solid foundation they already have with Fight Forever.

To start, the number of match types needs to be increased. Players, especially those who desire a heavy sense of simulation from their gameplay, simply need the ability for more creativity between the ropes and more match types that better represent what is shown on TV every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday night. Fight Forever can't even do Trios (3 vs. 3) matches, and in AEW, there's a whole division and championship belt for teams that compete in groupings of three. Additionally, we all love WWF No Mercy on the Nintendo 64. Still, it's been nearly 25 years, and it's time not to make the idea of living up to that game's particular control scheme the entire basis of one's opinion on whether or not a wrestling game is strong.

It would also help if the price of DLC were reduced or dropped. It would be foolish to expect the latter, as gaming development is a costly endeavor. Still, players need to feel that a game is worth the price and that they can trust the developer to do more than just try to make a quick buck off of them.

AEW: Fight Forever has strong ideas, a fun graphical style, unique mini-games, and even a Battle Royale mode. Be that as it may, AEW's first console outing came away looking like a young wrestler who may be ready for a television debut, but certainly isn't prepared to be the face of the company or carry its World Championship.

Here's hoping discussions of a sequel have already picked up, and wrestling fans can experience a more complete package from AEW Games in the near future. For anyone who hasn't picked up AEW: Fight Forever yet, it is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Steam, and the Xbox family of consoles. Pick up your desired copy here.

There were two major problems with the main event of the second night of WrestleMania.

Cody Rhodes, after everything, lost. In front of a crowd that chanted "Let's Go Cena" in its true spirit, "Cena Sucks" only for the sake of it, and as for Cody... well all they cared about was his song; John Cena stood tall with his 17th World Title. The crowd gave him a raucous ovation… but was that desirable? Is that now deniable? And was it always inevitable?

The end of WrestleMania 41 Night Two also felt... disappointing. Because everyone watching—from the stadium to the streams to the doomscrollers online—was waiting for one man to appear. THE ROCK

The build pointed to it. Or rather, the build was centered around it. The story begged for it. And in the end, he wasn't there. Cause he is oh-so-busy.

But here's the thing: HE DIDN'T NEED TO BE.

Music: Ya Know The Kind That Is Instantly Recognized

Picture this: Cody's rallying. Cena's gasping for air. Then—

"IF YA SMELL…"

The stadium ERUPTS. They might love him or hate him, but in that moment, they WANT him, just like they want John Cena to win No.17. For three seconds, they believe. Cody believes. Cena takes advantage. Low blow. Belt shot. 1-2-3!

What happens next? The crowd flips. Not because they hate Cena entirely—but because they feel PLAYED. They realize in that moment what everyone else around the world already knows, that The Rock not appearing at WrestleMania at all is absolute BULLS**T. They didn't get what they wanted, and Cena just handed not only Cody, but the WWE Universe another "you almost had it" moment. The same live crowd that cheered him over what he could never be: until that night, the face of the company that is unanimously loved, one that actually CAN wrestle. Why? Because he doesn't care about them. Because they are like his toxic ex-girlfriend. And because they haven't earned it.

That's right. The Rock doesn't show. The pop dies. And in its place: boos. Real, hot, visceral boos. Not because the fans don't care—but because they care TOO MUCH.

Cena, in this version, doesn't walk back out of the stadium to a chorus of cheers. He walks out with nuclear heat.

Here's Why It Works

Because this finish—MY finish—is a "f**k finish" in both kayfabe AND non-kayfabe terms, much like what we actually got. But from a meta-angle? It's genius. The nature of the "f**k finish" from the non-kayfabe standpoint may be disappointing, but the RIGHT kind of disappointing. Infuriating. Not deflating. Cody gets distracted by something out of his control. He doesn't look like crap. Cena takes the cheap route, not to piss the internet off, but to piss the crowd off.

You use the IDEA of The Rock—something WWE ITSELF has been dangling for months—as the final betrayal. The internet crowd has been dissecting this angle forever. They were convinced Rock was coming. Or about how he shows up WHENEVER HE WANTS. With no respect for anything or anyone. The music plays, and the rug is yanked. That's next-level trolling, and it makes Rock the ultimate META HEEL again. Not just a kayfabe villain. A real-life manipulator of expectations. A corporate god who just reminded you who owns the show. THE FINAL BOSS.

Would the internet still complain? Maybe. Possibly. Probably. We complain about everything.

But we'd also RESPECT the intelligence of it. That's the difference.

What actually happened at Mania? Also a "f**k finish." But one that left people cold. Cena got a pop. Good for him and good for the crowd. Cody looked like the absolute drizzling sh**s, from looking like a MADE MAN after EVERYTHING he has been through and in particular after his phenomenal job at winning the live crowds back mere moments after he began to get booed in both his verbal battles with Cena. And The Rock. Oh, we all know. He didn't even factor in. There was no narrative hit. Just a miss.

In this fantasy version (which I expect will certainly get me hired to the WWE Creative team once Hunter reads it), the crowd's heat is EARNED. Loud, angry, emotional heat in the building. That's where it matters. Not on the internet. And yet, Cena being booed out of the building seconds after that pop... seemingly impossible to achieve in that moment John Cena would win No. 17, especially without The Rock playing a factor, just became a sure shot.

What Was Needed & What We Got...

What did we need? What was desirable and yet seemingly unattainable? A smart, nuclear heel move that got REAL boos in 2025 when fans just witnessed a long-awaited and highly anticipated moment of sports and entertainment history. How? Engineered through expectation, not action. The same expectations that caused John Cena to turn heel. The same expectations that caused him to win his 17th World Championship. The same expectations that caused The Rock to turn heel. The same expectations that caused Cody Rhodes to finish the story. And the same expectations on the part of the company and the fans that sold 200,000 tickets over the weekend in Las Vegas, that drew millions of dollars, and that got billions of views all over the world.

And "what do we get?" What was undesirable but seemingly always undeniable and inevitable, and when the moment arrived, absolutely undisputed. The biggest heel in the industry being cheered unanimously while the biggest babyface in the industry was not just booed throughout the night but made to look like crap at the end of the biggest show of the year. A failure on the part of the company and the fans while the face of the industry got what he did NOT deserve.

The crowd's hate was desirable; the internet's hate obviously was not. The crowd's love, at least in my humble opinion, was NOT desirable, and yet, as the nature of the live crowds is, it is now undeniable.

Reinforcing Not Just Why, But How It Works

MY finish gives you both. Instant fury and long-term intrigue. It protects Cody. It vilifies Cena. And it elevates The Rock—without him ever needing to show up.

Hell, have Raw open the next night with THE ROCK'S music again. Get the pop. Then send out Cena instead. Let the boos rain down. Let the stadium LOSE IT. Let Cena feel the kind of heat you can't manufacture anymore. Not just "respectful dislike"—real, emotional hatred.

If the goal was to ruin wrestling and burn it to the ground to rebuild it in your image? This is how you do it. You EARN that. You fight for that. Not just in threads or reaction videos, but in the VOICES IN THE AIR. That's the magic WWE forgot.

Especially in a story this self-aware, this layered. That reaction in the building? The respect from the internet? After taking the bold risk of not just going a route no one expected, given the seemingly predictable yet stupendous nature of the prospective WrestleMania card months ago but turning John Cena heel in his retirement year. Not just backing yourself into the corner having heel Cena go for No.17 against the biggest babyface since Cena himself in The American Nightmare but navigating through the impulsive and seemingly menopausal midlife crisis-ridden actions of Dwayne Johnson resulting in using his absence to deliver a stroke of brilliance perhaps even The Final Boss's presence couldn't have.

Best of all, when Cena said all we ever care about is "what do we get," John Cena's promise would still have delivered, "YOU GET NOTHING!"

But hey, unless I haven't taken the bumps and travelled the roads and made the towns, I better "shut up and enjoy it", no? "Know my role and shut my mouth?" So much for expectations.

To sum this up neatly...

For too long, the WWE Draft has been a whisper, not a roar. A procedural shuffle, devoid of the seismic impact it could wield. But what if we transformed it? What if the draft became a night of destiny, a spectacle that redefined the very fabric of WWE? It's time to ignite a revolution, to reimagine the draft as a catalyst for legendary careers.

Let's look outside the squared circle for a moment. The NFL and NBA drafts are events that captivate millions. Why? Because they're more than just player selections; they're stories unfolding in real-time. The anticipation, the speculation, the life-altering moments when a player's name is called–these are the elements that make drafts compelling. WWE, with its captivating storytelling, has the potential to outshine even those juggernauts. But it needs to ditch the procedural nature and embrace the drama.

To truly revolutionize the WWE Draft, we need to move beyond simply swapping established stars. We need to create a talent acquisition event that serves as a launchpad for the next generation of wrestling icons.

Imagine the seismic shift as a coveted free agent, like Miro, steps into the WWE spotlight, signing their contract live on draft night. This isn't just a roster addition, it's a statement of intent. It's about showcasing WWE's dominance and its ability to attract top-tier talent. The arena erupts, the internet explodes, and the wrestling world takes notice. But what if the draft could go even further? Picture this: a groundbreaking talent exchange, a strategic loan from another wrestling powerhouse. Imagine the shock and awe as a performer like Will Ospreay, currently under contract elsewhere, is unveiled as a temporary addition to the WWE roster. A meticulously crafted video package showcases his unparalleled skill, his global acclaim, and the sheer magnitude of this unprecedented collaboration. This isn't just about bringing in a name; it's about creating a moment that transcends boundaries, a moment that rewrites the rules. This type of move creates true shock value, and makes the draft feel like a true event. These talents should be treated like major acquisitions, not just names on a list.

The WWE ID program is the new frontier of talent development, a structured pathway for elite athletes from diverse backgrounds to enter the world of professional wrestling. The WWE Draft should serve as the moment where these top WWE ID program recruits officially earn their stripes, signing their first WWE training contracts live, in front of the WWE Universe. This not only elevates the prestige of the WWE ID program but also establishes a clear and exciting path for these aspiring superstars. Showcasing the unique skills and stories of these athletes will highlight the crossover potential between traditional sports and the captivating world of WWE.

The WWE LFG competition isn't just a contest; it's a proving ground for the most driven and talented aspiring superstars. The culmination of this intense journey should be a live NXT contract signing during the WWE Draft. This isn't just a reward; it's a coronation, a moment where their dedication and talent are recognized on the grandest stage. Imagine the surge of emotion as these future greats ink their contracts, their dreams becoming tangible in front of the WWE Universe. This is a moment of pure triumph, a celebration of the next generation.

The transition from NXT to Raw or SmackDown should be a transformative event, a moment that solidifies a superstar's arrival. Consider the potential of an NXT talent, such as Stephanie Vaquer. A meticulously crafted video package, showcasing her journey, her battles, and her unwavering determination, would create a profound connection with the audience. The moment her name is announced should be a declaration, not a mere roster move. This is about crafting main roster superstars, about making the audience invest in their ascent, and about telling stories that resonate.

The key to a successful draft is storytelling. Each major pick should be accompanied by a well-produced video package, highlighting their background, their journey, and their unique in-ring style. We need to see the human side of these athletes, the passion that drives them. We need to hear their voices, their dreams, and their aspirations. Real one-on-one interviews and behind-the-scenes footage will create a connection. These packages and interviews allow the WWE Universe to connect on a human level with these athletes, fostering genuine investment in their careers and making their success feel personal.

The WWE Draft should be a spectacle, an event that transcends the boundaries of professional wrestling. It should be a night of surprises, of emotional moments, and of genuine excitement. Imagine the reactions: the tears of joy, the shock of unexpected picks, the palpable tension in the arena. This is how drafts should be done.

A revamped draft would inject fresh energy into WWE storytelling. It would create genuine investment from fans, who can follow talent from their early development to superstardom. It would give superstars clear motivation, a reason to fight for a better draft position, a reason to prove themselves on a new brand. It would make every fan feel like they're witnessing history.

WWE thrives on moments. The draft should be one of those moments—an event where futures are shaped, rivalries are born, and careers are launched into the stratosphere. It's time for a change. It's time for a WWE Draft that truly matters. The question is: Are we ready to witness the dawn of a new era?

What are your thoughts? How would you reimagine the WWE Draft?
Share your dream picks and scenarios in the comments below!

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WWE's recent deal with Netflix marks a significant shift in how the wrestling giant will be consumed globally, including in India, starting April 2025. While the move signals WWE's ambition to align with a premium global streaming platform, it also poses unique challenges in a market where its content has long been accessible through affordable and ubiquitous avenues.

India's Unique WWE Broadcast Model

India has always been an outlier in WWE's global distribution strategy. Unlike other regions, WWE's weekly shows (Raw, SmackDown, and NXT) and premium live events (PPVs) are aired live on Sony Ten 1, Sony Ten 3 (Hindi), and other Sony-owned channels via traditional cable and satellite. In addition to live telecasts, these events often air multiple repeats over the next few days, ensuring fans can watch at their convenience—something unheard of in other markets.

WWE content has also been widely accessible through internet services like JioTV, which offered Sony channels for free. Until recently, both weekly shows and PPVs could be watched live via JioTV. However, PPVs have since been removed from the platform and are now exclusively available on Sony Liv through either its WWE Network plan or Premium subscription. The WWE Network plan, priced at ₹400/year, or under $5, offers the full library of WWE content, including on-demand access to past events, documentaries, and classic matches, alongside live WWE shows. Sony Liv Premium, priced at approximately ₹1,000 per year, offers an expansive range of content, including live sports like cricket, football, and Formula 1, as well as several popular TV shows, web series, movies, and live WWE content, including recent shows available to be watched on-demand immediately after the end of a broadcast for a period of 28 days. This makes it a multi-utility service akin to Peacock in the United States.

Despite the recent digital transition, all weekly WWE shows and PPVs continue to air live on Sony channels for viewers with cable or satellite subscriptions, ensuring a broad reach for fans across socio-economic backgrounds.

Sony's partnership with WWE has been immensely lucrative, with their last five-year deal valued at an estimated $180–$210 million. While this is significantly less than WWE's $1 billion-plus deals with FOX and USA Network in 2019, the deal's scale is absolutely staggering, especially considering the purchasing power parity (PPP) of India. For a company like WWE to command such a deal in a country with lower income levels compared to Western markets underscores India's immense viewership and market potential.

The Netflix Shift: Opportunity and Risk

Starting January 6, 2025, Netflix has begun exclusively streaming WWE content around most of the globe, including the United Kingdom, Latin America, Canada, and several other key territories. As for the United States, it is of course the home of WWE's flagship show, Monday Night RAW. However, in India, WWE content will only transition to Netflix in April, after Sony's contract expires. This delay reflects exclusivity clauses and ensures that Sony remains WWE's home for a few more months.

The shift to Netflix introduces several challenges. WWE's content will no longer be available through cable, satellite, or Sony Liv, limiting its reach in a market where affordability and accessibility are paramount. Netflix's lowest-tier plan is significantly more expensive than Sony Liv's offerings, raising concerns about alienating WWE's core Indian audience.

Moreover, there's a stark contrast between Netflix's subscriber base and WWE's fan demographics in India. Netflix largely caters to urban youth in metropolitan cities, offering premium and curated content. In contrast, WWE has traditionally been a staple of kitschy entertainment for Tier 2 and Tier 3 city boys and men, who enjoy the larger-than-life characters and high-octane drama and action. This mismatch in audience profiles could make the transition to Netflix a challenging sell.

Will Netflix's Premium Model Work in India?

The move to Netflix could erode WWE's existing fanbase in India, especially among viewers accustomed to the affordability and convenience of Sony's ecosystem. Wrestling fans in India are known to enjoy the product privately, often considering it a “guilty pleasure.” Unlike cricket, WWE lacks the mainstream acceptance that drives open fandom. Reliable data and Sony's own claims at various points have illustrated that WWE is indeed their most viewed sports-related property in India after cricket.

However, Netflix's credibility and prestige could attract young adults and lapsed fans who perceive WWE as more appealing on a global platform. WWE's product quality, which dipped several years ago, alienated many fans during that time. Now, with significant creative improvements, wrestling is experiencing a resurgence in popularity globally. This could entice not only lapsed fans in their 20s and 30s but also older viewers in their 40s who may see WWE as a compelling form of nostalgia and entertainment. Additionally, for the foreseeable future, WWE will be the only episodic show aired live on Netflix and the only “sport” streamed regularly on the platform, giving it a unique edge.

Sony's Opportunity to Pivot

With WWE leaving its platform, Sony now has a golden opportunity to pivot and explore other wrestling promotions like AEW (All Elite Wrestling), TNA (Impact Wrestling), or even new or emerging companies. These promotions, though relatively unknown in India beyond hardcore wrestling fans, could benefit immensely from Sony's established distribution network and multi-platform strategy.

For companies like AEW or TNA, India represents an untapped goldmine. The country's low purchasing power parity (PPP) often underestimates its potential, but the $180–$210 million deal WWE struck with Sony is a testament to India's immense viewership and market value. With the right marketing and consistent programming, these promotions could carve out a niche and challenge WWE's dominance in what is arguably the largest market in the world.

Sony's experience in making WWE a household name in India could provide a playbook for these smaller promotions. By capitalizing on WWE's exit, Sony could create a fresh narrative and introduce new wrestling content to an audience eager for entertainment alternatives.

A High-Stakes Gamble for WWE and Netflix

For WWE, the partnership with Netflix offers an opportunity to tap into new audiences and expand its digital footprint in India. For Netflix, WWE represents its first significant step into sports entertainment in the country, a calculated move to diversify its content library and capture younger demographics.

However, the stakes are high. Can Netflix replicate the success Sony achieved through its multi-channel, multi-platform approach? Will Indian fans embrace WWE's shift to a premium platform, or will the transition alienate its loyal base?

As WWE prepares for this seismic shift in distribution, the Indian market stands as a litmus test for how well premium streaming services can adapt to price-sensitive regions with entrenched consumer habits. If Netflix and WWE can strike the right balance between accessibility and exclusivity, this partnership could redefine how sports entertainment is consumed in India. If not, it could be a case study in the risks of premiumizing a deeply rooted, mass-market product.

Meanwhile, Sony's potential to introduce new wrestling content could reshape the wrestling landscape, presenting both opportunities and competition for WWE's Netflix journey. For now, fans can only wait and watch—on Sony, Netflix, or otherwise.

WWE Survivor Series: WarGames 2024 had a lot to live up to after CM Punk's return in Chicago at last year's show, which took the world of professional wrestling by storm. However, leading up to this year, the anticipation for the annual Thanksgiving tradition wasn't quite the same—at least until a couple of days before the show.

The frequent taped shows leading up to Survivor Series played a part in that. Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens not being advertised for the event probably contributed too. Sure, they're set to main-event the inaugural revived Saturday Night's Main Event (more on that in a bit), and WWE's "problem" of having too many massive, money-drawing matches is one Tony Khan would probably envy. But short pay-per-views—or at least those with fewer matches and more ads—remain one of the few consistent criticisms of the Triple H era.

Note: this article was written BEFORE the December 2nd episode of Monday Night Raw.

The Bloodline Saga & All It Affects: The Rock, Cody Rhodes & CM Punk

Since Bad Blood, 'The Bloodline Saga' has picked up at a startling pace—or at least it feels that way. Fans were confused: Why were Jey Uso and Sami Zayn so quick to reunite with Jimmy Uso and Roman Reigns? Why didn't it take more convincing? Instead, most of the "convincing" in the story was Jey and Sami working tirelessly to find the fifth guy for the OG Bloodline at WarGames. Was the story being rushed? I had those thoughts too, but in hindsight, it didn't really matter.

Here's why: The Bloodline Saga wasn't moving as fast as we thought. Sure, this storyline has had arcs spanning several months, but Roman Reigns has been a full-time presence lately, appearing on almost every SmackDown over the past few months. The story also progressed on RAW. Naturally, this level of exposure accelerated the pace. Plus, everyone in the OG Bloodline is massively over with live crowds. You might not like it, but the people paying record ticket prices matter infinitely more than the fans on the internet. That's just a fact of life.

And finally, bigger things are on the horizon. If Roman Reigns is now firmly established as a babyface, it doesn't make sense for him to have tension with any of the three Usos anymore— yes, including one Sami Uso.

The return of CM Punk proved this. Some of you might not agree, but I think there was sufficient backstory for Punk to be the fifth guy, and it made sense. But more importantly, Punk is the guy you call on to make any major moment as spicy as possible. The dynamic between these two alphas—the Best in the World and the Tribal Chief—delivered, and then some. Their cinematic promo on SmackDown added exciting layers to the classic, sometimes tired, "can they coexist" trope. But much like the Reigns/Rhodes pairing at Bad Blood, two performers of this caliber made it work. With the cherry on top in this dynamic being one Paul Heyman.

In wrestling, the story never ends. And just look at the possibilities these two weeks have opened up. What is in store for the future is more important than all that has happened in the past. The main event picture in WWE is once again unpredictable, and the most interesting man in the equation turned out to be 'The Wiseman.' That's where the story lies. What favor is Punk going to ask Paul Heyman? How will this entire fiasco lead to a full-fledged blood feud between Seth Rollins and CM Punk?

And then there's the man we all expected to see at the end of the show... THE ROCK. Is Heyman going to align with the Final Boss? Who's first on The Rock's radar: Cody Rhodes or Roman Reigns? And how do all these moving pieces tie in with other major names on the roster?

So, to answer your question: WWE didn't milk the OG Bloodline's road to reunion because we all knew they'd reunite anyway. Instead, their stroke of genius was throwing a curveball that left us with even more questions. Even I was a little turned off by the execution of the reunion arc, but then again, it is fun seeing the band back together, and it's those kinds of leniencies you can take when you have a property as hot and as special as The Bloodline.

Three's a crowd: Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens & Randy Orton

Let's talk about the Undisputed WWE Champion, Cody Rhodes. He's now entangled in a red-hot feud with Kevin Owens, who's proven himself to be one of the most versatile and dependable performers in the industry over the past five years. It's hard not to root for KO right now, especially because he's entirely justified in his frustrations.

Think about it: KO fought against The Bloodline for four years—long before Rhodes ever returned to WWE. He was screwed out of the Universal Championship more times than we can count. He patched things up with Sami Zayn because Cody urged him to. He even helped Cody dismantle The Bloodline in the lead-up to and at WrestleMania 39. And what did he get for all that? Mr. Nightmare teaming up with Roman Reigns at Bad Blood; the same Cody Rhodes that Owens DID NOT pull the trigger on while he was supposedly injured during their Undisputed WWE Championship match at Bash in Berlin.

But here's the kicker: The American Nightmare is the most universally beloved main event babyface wrestling has seen in years. And this feud with KO has brought out a sharp, compelling edge in him that many of us had long been waiting to see.

Meanwhile, Randy Orton is still out of action thanks to KO's piledriver on SmackDown last month. The narrative here is fire, and there's almost no doubt the eventual match at SNME will be anything short of stellar.

Let's be honest, though—we all want to see that Cody Rhodes/Randy Orton feud. That mentor/protégé dynamic? That's a huge money match waiting to happen. The big question is when and how WWE will finally branch into that story. They have subtly laid out the seeds, and the turn is just a matter of when and not if. And don't forget, the Final Boss—The Rock—is still lurking in the background, ready to shake things up. Whatever Rock does could directly impact when and how Rhodes vs. Orton happens.

Now, back to The Prizefighter. One of the most fascinating aspects of Kevin Owens right now is his relationship—or lack thereof—with Sami Zayn. If KO lashed out at Randy Orton just for siding with Cody, imagine how he must feel about Sami at this point. Let's not forget, Sami Zayn helped The Bloodline make Kevin Owens' life hell for months. He low-blowed his long-time best friend at Survivor Series 2022, just so he could gain Jey Uso's approval.

Owens forgave Sami for everything. EVERYTHING. He even forgave Jey Uso because of Sami and Cody. Then he watched as Cody and Jey celebrated with the Undisputed Tag Team Titles. On top of that, KO was forcibly split from Sami, while Jey Uso conveniently got to stay on RAW. And now? Sami didn't just forgive Roman Reigns' crimes—he actively convinced Roman to take him back into The Bloodline. Roman wasn't even keen on the idea! And yet, here's Sami, that sneaky, weaselly little punk, worming his way back into The Bloodline. This isn't even the end of it. He did all this WHILE Kevin Owens was having this monumental crashout.

This entire dynamic is a goldmine of tension, and WWE's got plenty of options to keep this story cooking.

CM Punk: Best in the World

I'll admit it—I'm probably the biggest CM Punk fan out there. Maybe I'm a little biased, but come on! The man is incredible. He gave Drew McIntyre the best feud of his career, delivered the best feud of the year for the fans, and did it all while injured for a significant amount of time. Just CM Punk being CM Punk.

If you had to list the top 5 feuds of Punk's career, I wouldn't even be surprised if Drew didn't make the cut for some people. But now, we've also seen the seeds for a CM Punk/Roman Reigns story planted—and in just one week.

Here's another reason why teaming Punk with Roman Reigns was an absolute masterstroke: Seth Rollins repeatedly refused to team with Reigns leading up to WarGames because of their storied history. And then there's Punk. "Punky Brewster" (let's roll with it) joined forces with the one guy Rollins hates just as much as he does Punk. Rollins vs. Punk feels like the obvious plan for WrestleMania 41, but with WWE, you can never be too sure.

What's still unclear is whether Rollins/Punk at Mania will involve the World Heavyweight Championship—and if it does, where does that leave the reigning champion, Gunther? Under the Triple H regime, Gunther has been one of WWE's MVPs. Among all the massive names who could potentially face John Cena over the next year, Gunther seems like the most likely opponent for Cena's FINAL WrestleMania match.

Back to Punk and Rollins, though. At this point, it seems even more likely that The Architect will turn heel heading into Mania. And knowing WWE, we can probably expect a slow-burn approach with Rollins' eventual turn rooted in genuine, understandable motivations. One of them—either Rollins or Punk—might even head into WrestleMania 41 as the World Heavyweight Champion. With RAW tonight, we might just get some hints about what's in store over the next few months.

What makes all this even more compelling is Punk's unmatched ability to weave layered, nuanced stories. He thrives on tension, history, and subtle details. Whether it's Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, or even Drew McIntyre, Punk consistently elevates anyone he shares the ring with.

Let's see what Punk has to say tonight on RAW.

Continuing on with breaking down this year's Money in the Bank ladder matches, it's now time to unwrap the men's ladder match.

Similarly to the women, this year's match is unpredictable in its own right, with main event players, crowd favorites, and up-and-comers highlighting the 2024 lineup. Not to mention, there is plenty of room for interference in this year's edition. Nonetheless, it's time to rank all six of the male participants from worst to best odds in becoming the 2024 Mr. Money in the Bank

6) Andrade

There's always a chance but Andrade's latest run in WWE have not been a welcoming sign that he is destined for the main event slot, with only a handful of TV time since returning in January and being WWE Speed Champion being the main indicators.

Despite not being a likely winner, Andrade will surely be a lot of fun in a ladder match. Hopefully he has the type of performance that shows he is capable of one day reaching that level. Or at the very least gets him into United States title contention in the coming months.

5) LA Knight

Interference may be the common theme this year. Knight is feuding with the United States Champion Logan Paul, and is locked up in having that title bout for SummerSlam. Therefore, I full anticipate Paul interfering here and costing Knight the match when he's all the way up the ladder, about to grab the briefcase.

Knight is still very over with the crowd, so maybe, even if it's a smidge, he gets a crowning moment. But that moment is destined to happen next month. For now, he'll spend his second straight year being a crowd favorite in the Money in the Bank ladder match.

4) Carmelo Hayes

The young upstart being Mr. Money in the Bank, this soon in his main roster run, would prove to be a testament in WWE's faith in him.

Hayes is an extremely talented talent that should be thought of and used highly in the coming year. Hayes thought screams as a likely 2025 Money in the Bank winner. Give him a midcard championship, some more wins over prominent stars, and he can very well slide into the main event picture.

I'm not ruling Hayes out completely though. There is a world where he wins and holds it for a long time and cashes in post WrestleMania 41 even. It's not the craziest thing to consider.

3) Jey Uso

Yeet. Look, I know he's on the poster. I know he's going to be THE guy the Toronto crowd wants to win. I know he's worked his tail off to get this over in his solo run. But I just can't imagine Uso winning this match, cashing in, and becoming world champion.

I suspect Uso will have a golden chance at the end of this match to take down the briefcase, but be taken down by a heel. 

Being the contract holder just doesn't make any sense right now. Once Roman Reigns returns, we should be expecting Jey to team back up with his brother and back up Reigns in this war against the new Bloodline. I don't see how a Jey Uso world title run fits into that story.

2) Chad Gable

I love Gable. He's been one of my favorites on the roster for years now. Always underrated, and it's great to see him finally get his flowers and be a prominent face on the Raw roster. 

Now there is definitely a chance the WyattSicks cause some havoc and take Gable out of this match. But there is an interesting story to tell with Gable winning. He has his story still going on with Alpha Academy, Otis in particular, and with Otis being a former failed Money in the Bank winner, this could ass a new wrinkle in the story progression.

Also, even though it's not my favorite resolution, Gable could cash-in on the Intercontinental Championship down the road. He loves this title and keeps vying for it, and there is precedent in this contract being used for midcard titles. But also, Gunther will be challenging for the World Heavyweight Championship at SummerSlam. If he wins there, guess who has history with "The Ring General." Don't be too shocked if Gable has his shush-o-meter as loud as ever.

1) Drew McIntyre

And then there was one. This story with CM Punk can extend more in a lot of ways. 

McIntyre could win the Money in the Bank, cash in on the same night, win back his title, and just be a champion for a little bit.

McIntyre could also win the contract, cash in on the same night, and get screwed over in his cash-in by Punk.

Or maybe Punk just flat out interferes in the ladder match and doesn't even give Drew a chance to recapture the World Heavyweight Championship. Also, before anyone asks, no I don't think AJ Lee will be costing McIntyre. It'd be cool, but don't get your hopes up.

Overall, McIntyre winning makes sense, even if the idea of another failed men's cash-in isn't exciting. This year's winner definitely seems to be more story driven, regardless of who, and McIntyre just so happens to have the best story going on right now. Drew wins the match and may not be holding that briefcase for long...

Money in the Bank season is an important time in the calendar year. Careers are made, some get a much-needed boost, and some get that long-awaited accomplishment that they've worked hard for. 

The Women's Money in the Bank is no exception, as every woman has successfully cashed in their contract to become champion. This year's lineup of contenders proves to be unpredictable with multiple potential winners shaping up to be a logical conclusion in her climb up the ladder. Here, I'll be ranking all six of the women from worst to best odds in becoming the 2024 Ms. Money in the Bank.

6) Zoey Stark

While Stark is a very capable wrestler and does have potential to be a world champion someday, today is not that day. 

Ever since her breakup with Trish Stratus, she has struggled to gain any real reaction from the WWE crowds. Until that happens, I'd bet that it's safe to say Triple H and creative will not be banking on Stark to hold down the forth of the women's division.

Plus, with Stratus announced as the host of Money in the Bank, there is always a chance Stratus interferes in the ladder match to screw over Stark.

5) Iyo Sky

Sky is terrific, arguably the best in-ring performer in WWE's women's division today, and will undoubtedly end up as one of the MVPs of the match, regardless of the outcome.

But, the "Genius of the Sky" took home the briefcase last year. It seems unlikely that Sky will win the contract in back-to-back years.

Sky is also involved in the presumed dissolution of Damage CTRL, and it wouldn't make much to any sense if Sky picked up a big win following all this storyline being about the group (primarily Dakota Kai and Kairi Sane) struggling to gain any traction since WrestleMania. 

4) Lyra Valkyria

The NXT turned Monday Night Raw star has had a very good start to her main roster run, highlighted by reaching the finals in the Queen of the Ring tournament. She's picked up some nice victories, and is getting another spotlight on a PLE.

However, I just can not envision WWE putting so much faith in Valkyria this quickly with the Money in the Bank contract. 

Valkyria will definitely be in title contention in the near future, but she doesn't need the briefcase to justify that. Not to mention, you don't want to push Lyra down people's throats in a perhaps unnatural way. Let her continue to find her groove and maybe in 2025, we're talking about her as the main choice to win it.

3) Naomi

Do not be shocked if Toronto "Feels the Glow" at Money in the Bank. Naomi has been buddying it up with WWE Women's Champion Bayley, and has shown teases that a potential betrayal could be in the works. What better way to do that than incorporating the MITB contract.

While I'm not as thrilled as some may be in a Bayley vs. Naomi title feud, Naomi could serve as a solid enough transitional title reign before the Road to WrestleMania begins.

Even if she doesn't pick up the dub, she'll be a fun asset to have in a ladder match due to her athleticism and natural crowd support. 

2) Chelsea Green

Canada's own is not only in this match, but she stands a very good chance at becoming Ms. Money in the Bank.

For weeks, WWE, maybe not so secretly, have consistently noted that no woman has been unsuccessful in their cash-in. Who better person to break that streak than the comedic hot mess.

Regardless of if Green is destined to a fail her cash-in, Green could very well mimic a Carmella like contract holder. Anything Chelsea has done as of late has been catching on with WWE Universe, and in her home country, she should be as over as ever.

1) Tiffany Stratton

This should be a no-brainer. "Tiffy Time" may be closer than we think as Stratton leads the pack in grasping that career-changing briefcase.

Stratton's character is practicality handpicked to be Ms. Money in the Bank. She can comes in, week in and week out, be that annoying bratty heel waiting for the right opportunity, until eventually it's...well, Tiffy Time.

Stratton's new friendship with Nia Jax is also playing a factor here. She could cost Jax her title match with Bayley at SummerSlam or cash-in on Jax separately in Alexa Bliss fashion. Since coming on to SmackDown, Stratton has arguably been the most over woman on the roster. The crowd is clearly behind her and it's (Tiffy) time to strike while the iron is hot. 

Here's a foolproof pitch to WWE: Gallus needs to be brought up to the main roster either at WrestleMania XL or right after and paired with Drew McIntyre.

It's so simple that I think if it doesn't happen, it's a huge missed opportunity. Frankly, it might be the only thing that saves the careers of Gallus.

Let's be frank. Gallus had been a mainstay of NXT UK, but they've struggled to break into the more popular section of the totem pole for NXT in America. Yes, they've had some success, but even their tag title run was as bland as could be. For the most part, they've been sitting out a lot of time and just waiting around for something to do.

This feud with Ridge Holland isn't going to last much longer, if it is even going to continue at all. It seems like he's moved on to Shawn Spears. So what are they going to do next?

I would have them in the running for this tag team elimination setup to determine who fights The Wolf Dogs. They absolutely do not deserve to get that title shot, so they'd inevitably lose to someone else, even if it's Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson in the finals or however WWE plans on doing this.

Then what? Nothing of note, I'd assume. So if they're going to just linger around in NXT being a tag team for others to beat to move up the pecking order, I have a better idea in mind.

Seth Rollins is going to lose the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania XL. Whether it happens to Drew McIntyre or a Money in the Bank cash-in from Damian Priest, I don't think The Visionary is walking out with the title.

Ignoring all the chaos of Rollins being involved with The Rock and Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes—it's a complete mess that WWE should've seen coming from a mile away and booked better—Rollins is going to now fight on Night 1 in a tag match before defending his title on Night 2.

Clearly, he should lose that fight. He's going in injured AND beaten up from the previous night against a fresh Drew, who is bigger, a heel willing to cheat, and has more to gain by becoming the next champion.

I wouldn't go so far as to have Gallus interfere to cost Rollins. McIntyre can win clean. It'd be better for him and Rollins has the excuse.

AFTER that, though, is when I'd like to see McIntyre bring the Gallus boys in to be his backup.

All of them are Scottish. They've got that connection. They're all heels. McIntyre and Wolfgang are particularly close, it seems. And bringing in Gallus to the main roster makes another tag team in the rounds to freshen up some matches and have them against folks like The Judgment Day, DIY, Awesome Truth, etc.

Ideally, I'd like to see this play out before the 2024 WWE Draft, or I'd keep them out of the draft and have this happen as an off-draft switch. I'd want them to be a surprise, rather than just joining the Raw roster and then transitioning to being Drew's buddies.

Have them come out on some episode of Monday Night Raw when McIntyre is feuding with someone new post-Rollins—maybe someone who has allies of his own who can fight Gallus in the mix, like Bobby Lashley with The Street Profits or whomever—Gallus can roll in, beat someone up for McIntyre, and we've got a 4-man power faction that can freshen things up.

Ideally, we're looking at McIntyre as world champion, Joe Coffey in contention for midcard gold, Mark Coffey and Wolfgang in the ranks for the tag team titles. Realistically, even if it's just Gallus backing up McIntyre and not accomplishing much on their own, I think just by being associated with him, they'll have a much easier time transitioning on the main roster than if they just came up and we had to play that game where WWE reintroduces them to unfamiliar audiences.

Book it, WWE. And when you do, keep that in mind for how I've sent in my application to be on the WWE Creative writing team.

#HireMangoWWE

Ever since the American Nightmare Cody Rhodes seemingly gave up his WrestleMania XL opportunity to Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson on SmackDown, fans have worried whether WWE was delaying Rhodes' big moment. It seemed as if TKO and The Rock wanted a blockbuster match that drew a lot of eyes to the product and potentially off from the controversy surrounding Vince McMahon.

Cody Rhodes faces off against The Rock.

However, the WrestleMania XL kickoff press conference this past Thursday relieved some fans who worried that Rhodes would've to wait even more to defeat the Tribal Chief Roman Reigns and take his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. During the press conference, Rhodes decided to challenge Reigns for the championship and said to the Tribal Chief that his ancestors would be ashamed of the man he's become today. This sparked a reaction from Reigns and The Rock; the latter slapped Rhodes and warned him not to talk trash about the Anoa' i family.

Although the segment gave most fans the match they yearned for and established a potentially dangerous power duo of The Rock and Roman Reigns, it also proved something that hardly anyone in the wrestling echo chamber is talking about: The Rock is still the babyface to many fans.

WWE pivoted from what seemingly was the planned scenario of The Rock straight-up challenging Reigns for the title in the main event of WrestleMania XL. After the #WeWantCody movement blew up on social media, the higher-ups in creative and The Rock agreed to change their plans and have Rhodes continue his quest to "finish the story." Interestingly, The Rock has also agreed to turn heel and align himself with Reigns to go against the American Nightmare.

WrestleMania XL Press Conference

The Rock's heel turn was even teased during the Great One's appearance on the Pat McAfee show hours before the WrestleMania XL press conference, where the Rock acknowledged the #WeWantCody movement and called some of the fans who supported Rhodes on social media "Cody crybabies." The Rock would later use the term again during the press conference and said to anyone who didn't like the idea of himself versus Reigns that it "didn't matter what they think."

The Rock's heel turn comes at an interesting time for the company. Not only did WWE ink a humongous deal with Netflix for 2025, but there is also the fact that this WrestleMania season won't have any McMahon presence whatsoever. The Rock legitimately being appointed as a TKO board member, mixed with Reigns' influence and backstage stroke, makes the Anoa' i family the most powerful family in WWE right now. It's also interesting for the Rock to use his real-life new business position to further WWE's biggest story heading into WrestleMania XL.

And yet, WWE may end up sabotaging Rhodes' big moment by having him go up against one of the most popular wrestlers and entertainers of all time in The Rock. Not many superstars in the business have cultivated the kind of genuine relationship with fans that The Rock has done. For years, the man has been nicknamed the People's Champion and receives a tremendous ovation from fans whenever he makes a surprise appearance on either Raw or SmackDown. The Rock is also legitimately the biggest action movie star in Hollywood and has the type of name recognition most wrestlers today can only dream of having.

Someone like that who has both the legacy, credibility, and genuine popularity to back him up would be hard to boo nowadays, especially in an era where fans know so much about the backstage ongoings in wrestling. Despite having grown as WWE's top babyface in the last two years, Rhodes could face an uphill battle when it comes to challenging The Rock's dynasty at WrestleMania XL. In the eyes of some fans, Rhodes may be disrespecting the Great One and preventing the long-awaited dream match of The Rock versus Roman Reigns from happening.

The People's Champion has returned to WWE

.There are also parallels between Rhodes and another popular babyface WWE superstar, John Cena. Rhodes, in many ways, has taken the torch from Cena and has become the type of mega-popular babyface superstar WWE wanted Cena to be during his run at the top of the card. Both men have had issues with the Anoa' i family; Cena, of course, with his back-to-back matches with The Rock at WrestleMania. If there is one thing WWE, and perhaps even Cena himself, took away from those back-to-back matches, it is that The Rock was the clear babyface in the eyes of the fans.

Whether it was the home crowd support for The Rock during his fist match with Cena at WrestleMania 28 or Cena's babyface run turning off a good portion of the fanbase, there was no denying that most fans preferred The Rock over the company's top babyface at the time. Fans booed Cena throughout the WrestleMania 28 clash and booed even louder when Cena got his win back over the Great One at the following year's WrestleMania at MetLife Stadium. The overwhelming fan support for The Rock and the negative crowd response for Cena throughout the feud was a clear indication that despite WWE's best efforts, they couldn't get their top babyface to surpass the legendary superstar from the attitude era in terms of popularity and interest.

Unfortunately, the same thing could happen with WWE hoping to have Rhodes become the definitive top babyface in the company by dethroning Reigns and supplanting The Rock as the new People's Champion. There is no denying the intense love and support fans have for the American Nightmare, but there will come a time when fans of Rhodes today will be looking for their next underdog to cheer on. A program with The Rock may ignite some fans' disapproval of Rhodes and begin to see him as a babyface that WWE is pushing down their throats. This mentality led to Cena getting a 50/50 reaction during his run as the top babyface, and countless other wrestlers fans once were behind on.

Can Cody Rhodes finally become the WWE Champion?

So what happens if Rhodes does become WWE Champion at WrestleMania XL. The likelihood of fans continuing to cheer Rhodes after he dethrones the Tribal Chief and overcomes The Rock is still high, but it all depends on how the American Nightmare is booked and who his next challengers end up being. For instance, a WWE Championship program with Gunther would do less harm to Rhodes than a face versus face program with Sami Zayn. Gunther is someone fans wouldn't mind being the antagonist in a feud featuring Rhodes. Also, WWE has done a terrific job so far by allowing Gunther to defeat many fan-favorite wrestlers throughout his run as Intercontinental Champion. It makes the heel-and-face dynamic much easier to digest and gives Rhodes a clear villain to go up against.

On the flip side is Zayn, who fans have wanted to see finally become a top star after his performance last year during the Bloodline saga. Zayn wouldn't be a great choice to have as a challenger for Rhodes after the American Nightmare topples both Reigns and The Rock at WrestleMania XL because there would be a significant portion of fans who would rather see Zayn finally win the WWE Championship. Hypothetically, if Rhodes would go over Zayn after denying fans the opportunity to see Reigns versus The Rock for the first time ever, then it would give Rhodes' detractors enough ammo to boo him despite his multi-year-long quest of "finishing the story."

Finish the Story

Nowadays, it seems like creating a true heel that fans wouldn't just end up cheering for is nearly impossible. Gunther is perhaps one of the only great examples of a bad guy the fans still boo in the arenas. After the SmackDown debacle with The Rock, maybe Rhodes' biggest heel is just lousy booking. If that's the case, Rhodes should be thanking his lucky stars that there is someone else in charge of creative whose last name isn't McMahon.

And yet, the American Nightmare's story seems even more muddled than it was when McMahon was still somewhat around. Whatever the case, here's hoping Rhodes can finally put a definitive end to his story and make his father proud by winning the WWE Championship at WrestleMania XL.

You know, it dreads me having to write up this article. Since 2006, I've been a fan of the Straight Edge Superstar CM Punk despite all of his flaws(yes, there are plenty). While the era of Punk hasn't been perfect by any stretch, for me, CM Punk has always represented a new kind of successful wrestler. He was a wrestler who climbed into the upper echelon of WWE despite not having the typical WWE muscular physique. CM Punk proved that no matter the size, anyone can become a WWE superstar if they have the talent, promo ability, and sheer will to back it up. That's something I'll always be fond of him for.

So it completely saddened me to know he suffered another injury, the third major one since his blockbuster return in 2021. Don't get me wrong, I know any wrestler, no matter how experienced and talented they are can end up on the injury shelf at any point. Heck, Punk suffered a foot injury during his time in AEW while attempting a stage dive. There is no planning for injuries, especially the ones that seem to come out of the blue.

And yet, there is this feeling of inevitability whenever I think about Punk's recent tricep tear injury. It's like the universe is throwing truth bombs onto every fan of the Straight Edge Superstar, and we're forced to finally take notice. These truths may not meant to destroy us but rather to challenge us to put our sometimes blind fandom aside for a second and embrace reality.

The first truth: CM Punk can't last forever. At 45 years old and already a 7-year layoff away from the ring, this man's body is likely just breaking down. Punk even mentioned during the now infamous All Out media scrum back in 2022 that no matter how many surgeries he gets, he'll always be at a new 100%. Although doctors have fixed his foot, it will never be the same foot from 10 years prior.

This is just the reality most fans just need to accept when it comes to wrestling. While we like to see these men and women as larger-than-life superhumans who can withstand the blast of a steel chair any given Sunday, they pay more of a price than any of us ever will. Punk has paid the price several times throughout his career, and perhaps these injuries have finally made it to where his physical well-being has hit bankruptcy.

The second truth: the game needs to change but won't. For years, fans have discussed whether wrestlers deserve to have an off-season. WWE superstars are on the road 300-plus days a year and taking just a handful of days off a month. Before leaving wrestling for seven years, Punk was one of those guys who toured the world, strengthening his craft and trying to prove why he proclaimed himself to be the "best in the world." While being part of this game at such a high level, it's understandable that Punk developed a never-say-never attitude about his career prospects. He wanted to be the main event of WrestleMania, and he wouldn't let anyone or anything stop him.

Although this never-say-never attitude is admirable, part of it comes with the knowledge that it can sometimes lead to a very destructive lifestyle. One of the guys I often point to whenever this discussion comes up is the late great Eddie Guerrero. This man became the WWE Champion during a time when the top brass in the company were often those of a particular body type. It's believed that Guerrero wanted to keep his spot on the card and wanted to be perceived by management as having the same body type as many of the top guys in the company. Unfortunately, this led to Guerrero's untimely death, which was linked to a lengthy history of anabolic steroid usage and narcotic medication.

There's no denying that part of this vicious game of perception versus reality has changed since Guerrero's death. Steroid usage in WWE is non-existent, and there isn't this pressure to have the same body type as Hulk Hogan during his heyday. And yet, the fear of losing out on the main event of WrestleMania and the WWE Championship being handed to someone else still haunts many wrestlers who enter this game today. Despite having been at the mountaintop before, CM Punk still has these fears of losing out on what he thinks is obviously his.

Maybe this second return of Punk in WWE could be a chance for him to do things a bit differently. He has enough credibility and history behind him to request fewer dates while still performing against the top guys in the company. Before his sudden injury, Punk wasn't showing up on every episode of Raw and SmackDown. This could be the run in which Punk takes a step back from being the working man's underdog champion and becoming more of a part-time legend looking for one last chance at glory.

It would be nice to think all of this is true; however, Punk appeared to be after a goalpost he'd been chasing for much of his WWE career: to be in the main event of WrestleMania. Perhaps this vicious game of perception versus reality only exists inside the head of someone like Punk. If that's the case, then this is a game that needs to change. The sad truth is there will always be another goalpost for guys like Punk.

The final truth: no one's truly the "best in the world." There have been many different wrestlers who proclaim themselves to be the best, only to then find themselves upstaged by someone who came after them. Again, wrestling is a game of perception versus reality. If CM Punk, at 45 years old, can still make people believe he's better than 95% of the roster in WWE today, then he's proven he can manipulate people's perceptions. However, the reality is that probably 95% of the roster believes themselves to be the "best in the world." The reality is that no matter how many times you say it, there is another person on the opposite end of the globe who thinks they can take your spot and be better at it. The reality is even for someone like Punk, proving you're the best can't always be the reason to stay in the game longer than you probably should.

And this all goes back to the very start of this article. Punk has proven that you don't have to be 6 foot, 290 plus, with muscle to be a WWE Champion. He also proved that not being that means you're often on track to chasing being the best wrestler for a very long time. Punk has chased the moniker of being the "best in the world" for a very long time, and it has caused him more trouble than it's worth. He's made his money, he made his fans, he even made history on a couple of occasions, so why can't he make himself stop chasing the "best in the world"?

In reality, Punk will stop wrestling on his own terms. He left WWE on his own terms, so I have no doubt that he'll hang it up whenever he feels it is the right time. Still, I worry that maybe the days of Punk painting the world of WWE black are long gone, and the man is just chasing something that doesn't need to be chased. The main event of WrestleMania is a dream, but even the best dreams can turn into nightmares.

And no, that's not a Cody Rhodes pun.

Sometimes I think the universe is literally out to get me.

Just last week, I was petrified over the fact that Seth Rollins had sustained a legitimate knee injury and would possibly miss WrestleMania. I'd been looking forward to a showdown between him and CM Punk on 'the grandest stage of them all" ever since Punk returned to WWE at Survivor Series last year. It was a match that would've finally given Punk the WrestleMania main event he'd been obsessing over for ages and maybe legitimized Rollins' World Heavyweight Championship reign in the eyes of some fans.

Dream match no more

Plus, Punk and Rollins are personally my two favorites of all time, so watching them battle over the title in night one's main event of WrestleMania 40 would've been like having my birthday come a few months early on April 6th. When Rollins announced on the go-home episode of Monday Night Raw before the Royal Rumble that he still intends to defend his title at Mania, I thought all my fears of losing out on the match were long gone.

Two Rumble matches, a controversial lawsuit, and another announced Mania song from The Weekend later, and my dream match will remain just a dream. CM Punk reportedly tore his triceps during his appearance in the 30-men Royal Rumble match. The word around the internet is that he would require 4 to 6 months after surgery to be fully healed, which means his chances of stealing the show in the main event of Mania are dead in the water.

CM Punk sustained a torn tricep injury during the Royal Rumble match

This also means that WWE is probably scrambling to find a great alternative for the World Heavyweight Championship match and a solid choice for the main event of night one of Mania. With Punk now expected to be on the shelf and Rollins still recovering from his own injury, there is reason to believe WWE may just go with another championship match instead to close out the show on April 6th. History has shown us that WWE does pivot when it needs to, and this is the type of situation where one person's bad luck could turn into someone else's good fortune.

So the question remains: what should be the match to close out night one of Mania 40? A match that has two top stars going head-to-head for dominance and championship glory. A match that has been built for five years. A match that could somewhat rival night two's main event of Roman Reigns/Cody Rhodes 2.

Becky Lynch vs. Rhea Ripley for the Women's World Heavyweight Championship.

Now I know the main argument against this: it doesn't even involve the person who won the Royal Rumble. Absolutely true, but that hasn't stopped WWE before. In 2017, the main event of WrestleMania 33 involved no Royal Rumble winners and neither of the top champions. A year afterward, Shinsuke Nakamura was snubbed from his WrestleMania main event against AJ Styles despite winning the Royal Rumble. Just because someone wins the Royal Rumble doesn't mean they are guaranteed to be part of the final match at Mania. In fact, it's way more likely these days that the Royal Rumble winner will instead be part of "a main event" than THE main event.

The Man vs. The Eradicator.

So even though Bayley punched her ticket to Mania this weekend by winning the 30-women Royal Rumble match, it's unlikely she won't be wrestling Iyo Sky at the end of either night. Both women have never wrestled in a high-profile one-on-one championship match at Mania, something Lynch and Ripley have done. And while Bayley's heel arc and relationship with the other members of Damage CTRL is intriguing, the whole thing doesn't quite match the magnitude and star power of two women who have crossed paths from time to time but have never defeated one another on live television. 

This would also be sweet redemption for Ripley after losing out of the main event last year to Sami Zayne's issues with the Bloodline and a nice slingshot off of Elimination Chamber emanating from Ripley's home country of Australia. 

The almost main event from WrestleMania 39 night one

There are other options out there for Triple H and company to pick for sure. Gunther's inevitable Intercontinental Championship match. The Rock making another surprise return and challenging Adam Pearce for some reason. Okada versus himself. Anthony Mango versus NYC traffic. Even Ronda Rousey versus that WrestleMania 38 sign that went on fire during the Royal Rumble event a couple of years ago. All of these are notable options, but nothing compares to the Man challenging the Eradicator for the title. It's a match that would be built on Ripley's win over another fellow Four Horsewoman, Charlotte Flair, from last year's Mania. Also, Ripley's involvement with Judgement Day on Monday Night Raw has made her one of the top stars in the company, and certainly worthy enough to go on last with the Man.

In a perfect universe where it wouldn't be out to get me, Punk and Rollins would still be on. Sadly, we live in a world where stories never end, billionaires are monsters, and injuries happen even to the best of us.