In just a few short days, WWE will take over the Nation's Capital as the 2016 WWE Battleground pay-per-view will take place at The Verizon Center, in Washington DC. This year's Battleground card is still being completed, but with the matches that have already been confirmed, this event is shaping up to be a great one.
One of the matches already confirmed for that event, is the match where Charlotte and Dana Brooke will join forces in a tag team contest against "The Boss" Sasha Banks and a mystery partner. This match is generating a lot of curiosity from those who are anxious to find out just who Sasha decides to have on her side.
There's a lot of speculation regarding the mystery partner. Many believe a certain NXT standout will get her call-up to the main roster. Meanwhile, others have a different potential partner in mind for Banks. Regardless of who you think it may be, there are several possibilities and that's what this column is all about. Today, we will take a look at 5 potential partners for Sasha Banks at Battleground.
5. NIA JAX
Since making her NXT debut, Jax has improved leaps and bounds, considering her first appearance. While she's still a little stiff in the ring and certainly has some progress that needs to be made, Nia has that huge frame she uses for her advantage, which could be a welcomed addition to the main roster. At 6'0" tall and tipping the scales over 270 pounds, there's not another women's star in wrestling today quite like her. Not to mention she comes from the legendary Anoa'i family, which is among royalty when discussing great wresting family names.
There's also the option that Jax could work this match without being called up. She could potentially just work this event and then return to NXT until her trainers feel she's ready. However, considering the brand-split looming, she could be better utilized on the main roster.
4. NIKKI BELLA
Before you roll your eyes at this possibility, allow me to explain my reasoning.
Nikki has been out with a neck injury, which required surgery back in January. While she has yet to be officially cleared, they have been teasing of a return for this summer and a possible return as early as Battleground. Yes, it's still a long shot pick, but keep in mind that Nikki has been out quite a while now and she's hungry to get back into the ring to prove she can succeed, standing alone, even without Brie by her side. For years, The Bellas have been a collective success story and now, Nikki takes on the journey alone.
Also, Charlotte is the one who took the championship from Nikki, which makes this opportunity and personal quest for Nikki to get her hands on the current champion and let her know she's coming back for her belt.
3. ASUKA
This is one that a lot of people may think of as highly unlikely. However, in today's wrestling, anything is possible and surprises equal money. This could be a very unique partner for Banks as neither are familiar with one another, in regards to working together in the ring. However, Asuka has proved herself to be a take-charge leader and could be a huge factor in this type of match.
This is also a situation where Asuka would be able to gain some more main roster exposure, but still be able to return to NXT and continue her flawless title reign.
2. PAIGE
Before there was even talk of the whole "Divas Revolution," Paige was the top star in the women's division. She was dominating anyone who stepped in the ring with her and always either held the title, was challenging for the title, or had just lost the title. Paige was undoubtedly at the top of the mountain, but once the younger talent began really infiltrating the main roster from NXT, Paige seemingly hit a plateau, so to speak.
Competing in this match could very well be the spark to reignite her career, not to mention having Paige as her partner would give Sasha a huge advantage. Paige is not only a popular option, but she's also a wise choice as possible mystery partner.
1. BAYLEY
Lastly, we finish things up with the one who is probably the most popular choice by fans. Bayley has been sitting back, patiently waiting for her name to be called. Bayley is the cornerstone of NXT. She is battle tested, tried and pushed to her limits. But, through it all, Bayley always stands tall and comes right back for more. If there's anyone at all deserving to be called up to the main roster, it's Bayley.
Surely everyone is aware of the epic battles between Bayley and Sasha Banks. These ladies gained worldwide attention at their Takeover battle. Bayley and Sasha know each other very well and teaming together could result in some of the best action of the night at Battleground. Plus, when this event is over, Bayley can go in to have a world of success that she definitely deserves, either with Raw or Smackdown. Bayley is absolutely the best choice, but will it be THE choice?
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