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What's the story?
Days after Rusev was announced to face The Undertaker at the Greatest Royal Rumble, WWE has lined up a different opponent for The Deadman.
In a surprising change, Chris Jericho will take on The Undertaker in a Casket Match that was originally scheduled for the Bulgarian Brute.
In case you didn't know
Many were excited to hear about Rusev getting the chance to take on The Undertaker at the Greatest Royal Rumble, but there were a lot of fans who feared The Phenom would make quick work of the former United States Champion.
Rusev himself sent out a shockingly honest tweet regarding the match with the caption "Bury Me softly, Brother."
The heart of the matter
The following is what WWE said regarding Jericho replacing Rusev:
Originally, the Casket Match was to be between The Deadman and Rusev. However, Lana, who originally showed public support for her husband competing against The Undertaker, recently Tweeted second thoughts over The Bulgarian Brute competing in the grisly bout.
Although Jericho has never been a part of such an ominous showdown, WWE’s first Undisputed Champion has battled in virtually every other kind of match WWE has to offer, and if his extensive resume says anything, it’s that he knows how to win when it counts.
Since Rusev caught fire again with his "Rusev Day" chant and high merchandise sales, the belief amongst some fans is that WWE is purposefully pushing him down the card due to their issue with wrestlers who get over without their help.
This isn't the first time this spiteful WWE theory has arose as many fans have claimed wrestlers like Dolph Ziggler, Cesaro and others are being held down and not given opportunities.
With The Undertaker's swift victory against John Cena, the expectation for this casket match is that it won't be a lengthy bout and would result in Rusev getting crushed.
What's next?
Despite Rusev no longer being in the match, Jericho returning to face The Undertaker is still a pretty big deal.
This will mark their first singles match since the Feb. 9, 2010 edition of SmackDown and their first time in the ring together since the 2017 Royal Rumble match.
Author's take
Anyone who watched Cena vs. Taker at WrestleMania 34 would understand why having Rusev in that Casket Match would do little to nothing for him.
There seems to be some tension between Rusev and the WWE and situations like this aren't doing anything to clear up the situation.
