R Truth vs. King Barrett
Predicted Winner: King Barrett
R-Truth got the pin on Barrett at the Elimination Chamber. This is partly because WWE has nothing else for Barrett (although he could have been in the MITB match). There is no need for R-Truth to win this match, but there is a need for King Barrett to stop looking like a constant loser, especially after his King of the Ring win. The match will have some decent athleticism, but nothing we have not seen before. Equate this match to a Raw midcard match, and do not expect more than that. Barrett to win.
The New day vs. Prime Time Players (Tag Team Championships)
Predicted Winner: The New Day
Singles match on Raw aside, both of these teams have been impressive as of late. The New Day is extremely athletic, and PTP have a fun and unique sense about them. If the end of their Elimination Chamber match is any indication, this should be an entertaining match. Pulling the titles off the New Day would be premature, as they are still on their climb to cement a strong position on the roster. Usos and Kidd & Cesaro are out, so the New Day are the best team to carry the titles at the moment. Big E to make the pin and win.
Ryback vs. Big Show (Intercontinental Championship)
Predicted Winner: Ryback
Depending on the opponent, Ryback can put on somewhat of a strong match. Unfortunately, the Big Show is not one of these opponents. Although the Big Show adds star power, this is not the way to kick off Ryback’s inaugural Intercontinental title reign. If the Miz becomes involved, this will lead to matches between those men, which is another huge disappointment. Hopefully, Ryback can weather the storm of these two opponents, and be paired with some other men. The match will be very slow, so do not expect anything other than a 5-8 minute win by Ryback. The spot I was most excited for in this match (Ryback dropping Big Show with the Shell Shocked) happened on Raw. Let’s hope for one strong spot to not leave a sour taste in the audience’s mouth.
Nikki Bella vs. Paige (Divas Championship)
Predicted Winner: Nikki Bella
The Divas division is on the cusp of becoming great, provided a few of the NXT girls get promoted. Until then, expect filler matches to plague the next few PPVs. Even though Nikki has improved, do not expect a “Sasha vs. Charlotte.” Much like the Ryback Big Show match, this will likely be a 5-8 minute breather in between two of the marquee matches. Keeping the title on Nikki will add to her reign, and give more of a shock when someone pulls it off of her.
Ziggler vs. Kane vs. Kingston vs. Neville vs. Orton vs. Reigns vs. Sheamus – Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Predicted Winner: Roman Reigns
Regardless of individual opinions, Roman Reigns is the best option (and the most obvious choice) to win the briefcase. Neville is not ready, Kingston is not at the championship level (although the “freebird” rule of defending the title would provide for interesting writing), Ziggler seems to be doomed to the midcard, and Sheamus and Orton have their own separate feud. The only other alternative is Kane, to give him one last farewell present before retiring from in-ring competition. That however, would be short-sided booking; something creative has tended to shy away from when it comes to the main title scene as of late.
If you enjoy the previous MITB matches, chances are you will enjoy this one too. Two high flyers equates to multiple high spots. Roman is also more willing to take gimmick punishment to garner fan attention, so expect a solid ladder spot or two with him. Other than that, expect many ladders, an announce table spot, Kofi doing a handstand, and some sort of outside interference (likely J&J for Kane). Kane did mention that he wanted to win the briefcase, then cash it on the winner of the ladder match, so expect this to be the opening match. Roman Reigns to grab the briefcase and win.
John Cena vs. Kevin Owens
Predicted Winner: John Cena (DQ finish)
WWE has decided to go all-in with Kevin Owens. To continue this, he should defeat John Cena once more (or at least have a DQ finish). Owens is protected by Triple H, so don’t expect him to lose clean. A DQ finish sets up for a blow-off without having Owens take any damage. There are many questions up in the air, such as: Will Owens lose the title and fully transition after the Japan special? Will Owens take the US title from Cena at one point? Where does he go after this feud? The fact that there are several questions around this feud makes for good storytelling, and keeps people interested. Not only that, but the first match was one of the best Cena matches we have seen in quite some time. The only certainty in this match is that Cena will not go over Owens clean.
Seth Rollins vs. Dean Ambrose – Ladder Match (WWE World Heavyweight Championship)
Predicted Winner: Seth Rollins
Both of these men have amazing chemistry in the ring. The ladder match will provide a podium to truly showcase their craft. With no time constriction or interference, this match does have the potential to rank in the history books close to Michaels vs. Razor. The match should be filled with high and strong spots by both men. Count on an elbow drop off the ladder from Ambrose, as well as a Rollins running ladder powerbomb. Although Rollins is the likely winner, WWE could swerve and have Ambrose win, followed by a successful Reigns cash-in. This however, may rush the long-awaited triple threat Shield match for the title (which really would make more sense at WrestleMania). On this match, enjoy the ride, regardless of how it ends.
Trending Stories
You can keep up with all your wrestling news right here on eWrestlingNews.com. Or, you can follow us over on our Twitter and Facebook pages.
