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What's the story?
Hell In A Cell was a spectacle of an event featuring plenty of jaw-dropping moments. In one of the night's more surprising moments, Jinder Mahal was able to pin Shinsuke Nakamura after just one execution of his Khallas finisher.
During his review of Hell in a Cell, Dave Meltzer commented that AJ Styles could be next in line to face Jinder Mahal for the WWE Championship.
In case you didn't know...
Once thought of as exclusively an enhancement talent, Jinder Mahal was released from WWE in 2014 and spent two years on the world's independent circuit. When Mahal returned in 2016 he had a different look and a much more intense mindset which soon saw him capture the WWE Championship from Randy Orton in surprise fashion at Backlash.
The heart of the matter
Dave Meltzer brought up this subject on Wrestling Observer Radio where he made the observation unless John Cena comes back then there might not be many plausible challengers for Jinder Mahal's WWE Championship at this point. Besides, John Cena isn't expected for a return until around Christmas time.
Sami Zayn now appears to be a heel, although he wasn't going to be considered anyway due to his position on the roster. Credit to Still Real To Us for the transcription
"I think it's AJ [Styles]. After that I guess and Corbin and Dillinger will feud over the US Title or maybe Corbin will feud with Nakamura for the US Title."
Therefore it was deduced unless John Cena can come back in time, AJ Styles looks like he's next in line for a shot a The Modern Day Maharaja.
What's next?
Since WWE is touring India in December, it's unlikely Mahal that will drop his title anytime soon. If he does lose it, you can probably expect him to get it back before he travels to India.
Author's take
Shinsuke Nakamura really needs to step it up. He has amazing ability, but he is currently in cruise control and is floundering on the main roster. Mahal has no shortage of drive and passion and continues to dominate. As his championship reign continues, it looks like it will be even harder to topple The Modern Day Maharaja.
Placing Mahal in a multi-man Survivor Series match at the big November pay-per-view might ensure he keeps his title for another month as well. But only time will tell who steps up next to face Mahal.
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