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WWE managed to pull off an excellent episode of Monday Night Raw with Payback just around the corner. The way in which they booked their weekly flagship show has given them a lot of boost ahead of the pay-per-view but the job is only half done.What happens at the pay-per-view will have a big say on how successful the outing was and from the current landscape, WWE does have some shortcuts that needs to be worked out to make Payback memorable. So here is a look at those booking decisions that needs to happen once the company hits Baltimore for their latest major offering.
#5 The breakup
Lana embraced the cheers of WWE fans recently on Raw and it showed the potential she has as a babyface. The company being high on her makes the path easier for her, and instead of overcooking the whole thing, WWE should Lana fly free at Payback itself.
The ‘I Quit’ stipulation is just perfect for the Ravishing Russian to part ways with Rusev as she could end up throwing the towel and gift Cena the win. It will probably be the last time we will see Rusev in prominence but as far as the fans are concerned, they would have no trouble seeing Lana doing some more dancing every now and then without Rusev breathing down her throat.
#4 End of Bray & Ryback
The Bray Wyatt Ryback feud looked interesting on the paper initially as it was something new for both the superstars. However, from what we saw so far, it might end up being a complete waste of time for everyone and WWE needs to end this as early as possible.
Rybacks shortcoming on the microphone is what hurts the feud most while the lack of proper buildup tags this one as a middle card random booking. They should take separate paths after a one match affair at Payback, which is, hands down the best for business decision.
Bray could then run a program with Bo Dallas or the Authority while Ryback could strike up a program with almost anyone else in the midcard.
#3 Eva Marie or Paige Returns
The Divas division turned upside down with the return of Tamina but the fact is, there is still more to come. Eva Marie’s training alongside Brian Kendrick is going great at the moment and she looks destined to reach the top once she returns.
Paige on the other hand still has a score to settle with Naomi for her actions. Eva and Paige teaming up against Naomi and Tamina would be a great feud unlike the current Bellas one and it will open the door for the likes of Natalya or Emma to challenge for the divas title as well. For all this to happen, first the divas should make their return and this happening at Payback would be great.
#2 A decision on the Intercontinental title
One of the most puzzling questions that the WWE fans have at this moment is about Daniel Bryan. His intercontinental championship reign is hanging in the balance due to his injury and the status of Bryan for Payback is still unclear.
If Bryan is fit enough to compete, then WWE should take the title away from him with immediate effect as it will take a lot of pressure away from him. He could then take proper rest and come back when he likes rather than pushing himself due to the gold. On the other hand, if Bryan is not fit enough to compete, then WWE should think about making him forfeit the title at Payback.
#1 Roman Reigns not getting pinned
The main event of WWE Payback saw a big twist being added to it in the form of Dean Ambrose. Ambrose not only widens the playing ground but also breathes new energy into the feud. There are a lot of possible permutations in which the match could end now, but Rollins retaining the title is the most likely outcome.
And no matter what happens with the match, one thing that WWE should ensure is the protection of Roman Reigns. He is slowly winning over the fans with his performances and getting pinned at Payback would work against him. Either Ambrose or Orton should sacrifice for the cause and Reigns should then go on to win the Money in the Bank and return to the title scene.
