There are a little under eight weeks left in 2016, and I for one am excited about what 2017 will bring to WWE and the wrestling business. New performers, new feuds and potentially a surprise or two. It really has the possibility of being the best that the WWE has had to show its fans in five years. I’m not exaggerating.
When I look at the current rosters and the current storylines, I worry WWE has basically blown it, in terms of making wrestling fun again. The matches are better, and the story building for the blue brand has been exceptional. There is more intrigue in the brand than there has been for some time.
However, this is just the beginning. If the McMahons want to capitalise on Goldberg, Brock Lesnar, AJ Styles and Dean Ambrose as well as the new array of stars, there has to be more to come. Finn Balor will soon return. Samoa Joe may finally get called to the big show, and Bayley may find women’s gold.
That’s a great start.
But I want more. Here are five shocking things that could happen to help WWE’s ratings in 2017.
#1 A divorce made in heaven
While WWE has taken great pains not to incorporate a storyline, between Triple and Stephanie McMahon. When Triple H came out to “hand” Kevin Owens the Universal Title, it looked like it might lead to a confrontation between the happy couple.
Nothing has come of it. But if it did, it could be the storyline of the year. WWE has had great success when the McMahons take on the McMahons. A little bit of anger between the loving couple is a good thing – especially when ratings are involved. A storyline like this for next year, with something controversial, could make Raw, must-see television once again.
#2 Kevin Owens is my Hero
I have written about this before in other publications. Kevin Owens may be better served as a babyface than he is a heel. The theory is, fans love him no matter what side of the fence he stands on.
He serves well as a heel, but the current situation with Chris Jericho adds to the idea he is a soft champion. Jericho has that effect since he is such a solid performer. If Jericho and Owens do face off, a babyface turn for Owens might be just what he needs to become a more solid champion. I have always thought he would make a great leader of this brand.
#3 Kane versus Undertaker
The final chapter hasn’t been written between these two. As their careers come to a close, there needs to be closure. It probably would not happen at WrestleMania 33, but could a match like this could be part of SummerSlam.
WWE has failed at producing great storylines and characters with depth. Two of the remaining souls from the Attitude Era could walk off into the sunset together. There is so much history with these two as family and foes.
It’s only right to give fans one more look. If WWE is so committed to bringing back retired wrestlers, why not do the right thing and send both off with a blaze of glory.
#4 Kurt Angle comes back
It has been rumoured since April that the Olympian will make a return to the WWE. Can we just make it official? I love the idea of him in a stable, as a mentor for American Alpha, and I like the idea of him possibly wrestling AJ Styles or Seth Rollins.
Also, another confrontation with Brock Lesnar would be epic – even better than a return engagement from Goldberg. The one scenario I think I would love to see most is a confrontation with John Cena where it is Patriot vs. Patriot.
#5 John Cena’s heel turn
At some point, it has to happen. I may fall at Vince McMahon’s feet, but he is all about ratings and money.
Cena’s heel turn would be the biggest thing since Hulk Hogan turned his back on wrestling – and the fans would wholeheartedly accept it. Cena is at that point, where he is concerned with winning his 16th world title and has little else to “fight” for.
Other wrestlers have passed him by. He is still solid in the ring, but his time is limited. It is the one thing he hasn’t done that the fans can get excited.
For latest WWE News, live coverage and rumours visit our Sportskeeda WWE section. Also if you are attending a WWE Live event or have a news tip for us drop us an email at fightclub (at) sportskeeda (dot) com.
