Ziggler vs. Kane vs. Kingston vs. Neville vs. Orton vs. Reigns vs. Sheamus – Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Predicted Winner: Roman Reigns
Actual Winner: Sheamus
Rating: 3.5/5
The match itself was great, as per usual. Most of the men in the match put on a great show, and included the typical high spots. Kofi & the New Day’s antics added a new level of excitement to this match, giving a glimmer of hope that he might actually win. Bray Wyatt’s involvement sets up for him vs. Reigns, which should keep them both busy until Summerslam. Orton looked on point, especially when he hit the ladder RKO with Neville. Neville also had a great showing, including being part of the final scene before the briefcase was unhinged. The biggest downside to this match was the finish. Sheamus was quite possibly the most boring outcome of the entrants.
Going forward: Bray vs. Reigns, Orton in the midcard, Sheamus to save cash-in for whichever babyface defeats Seth Rollins.
Nikki Bella vs. Paige (Divas Championship)
Predicted Winner: Nikki Bella
Actual Winner: Nikki Bella
Rating: 3/5
This was one of Nikki’s better showings for a PPV. Although still not up to the level of a Sasha or Charlotte, Nikki is capable of putting on a somewhat strong Divas match (provided she has a partner who can wrestle as well). The confusing part of this match was the Bellas spinning face/heel turns. Casual fans have no idea who to cheer for at this point, which hurt the match a bit. The twin magic with Brie had a bit of charm to it (especially with the tissue and hair extensions), but should hopefully not be used too much going forward. In the end, this was a much better match than anticipated.
Going forward: Bellas vs. the rest of the roster until Nikki becomes the longest reigning champion in recent history.
Ryback vs. Big Show (Intercontinental Championship)
Predicted Winner: Ryback
Predicted Winner: Big Show (DQ)
Rating: 2/5
Creative was smart for having this match last only five minutes. It was long enough to get some offense in, but not long enough to get boring. The Miz interfering sets up for an eventual triple threat, which is not much of an injection of excitement. Not much to say about this match, aside from the fact that it served as a setup and a bathroom break.
Going forward: Ryback vs Miz at Battleground, Triple threat at Summerslam for the title.
The New day vs. Prime Time Players (Tag Team Championships)
Predicted Winner: The New Day
Actual Winner: Prime Time Players
Rating: 2/5
This was very questionable booking on WWE’s part, considering how hot New Day is right now. The upside to this is that these titles are traded on a more consistent basis, so they may win it back eventually. Titus and Darren have been somewhat impressive as of late, so it will be interesting to see how they handle the spotlight. The match itself was another quick and dirty transitional five minute match. Seeing these men go longer in the future may be a better idea (possibly for a rematch).
Going forward: Rematch at Battleground.
John Cena vs. Kevin Owens
Predicted Winner: John Cena (DQ finish)
Actual Winner: John Cena
Rating: 4.5/5
The first match was one of Cena’s better matches, and easily the best on the Elimination Chamber card. This match exceeded expectations and felt even better. Owens’ ability to have the opponent showcase so many different moves is exemplary. Cena hitting an electric chair facebuster and sunset flip powerbomb was something I have not seen from him, which steers away from his “5 moves of doom.” Owens ability to perform a multitude of moves is even better. The jumping moonsault from the top was executed beautifully, as was the electric chair into a powerbomb. In terms of a pure wrestling match, this was by far the best on the card. Even though Owens lost, he looked strong in the end. One thing booking got right was this feud.
Going Forward: Owens takes a break back to NXT until post-Battleground, Owens vs. Cena III at Summerslam.
Seth Rollins vs. Dean Ambrose – Ladder Match (WWE World Heavyweight Championship)
Predicted Winner: Seth Rollins
Actual Winner: Seth Rollins
Rating: 4.5/5
Yet another classic delivered by the former shield members. Much like the Cena vs. Owens match, everything went right in this match. Seth focused on attacking the leg, and utilizing the weapons. Ambrose hit his high spots and showed resilience through good comebacks. The lack of interference also helped Rollins look much stronger. It will be hard to see them move on to other feuds, considering how many great matches they can put on together. The finish was close enough to the point where it did not hurt Ambrose. This match was a great way to end the show, and take away any sour notes earlier in the card.
Going Forward: Rollins vs. Lesnar at Summerslam, Ambrose to wade in upper midcard for a few months.
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