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What's the story?
Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer recently speculated that if AJ Styles loses to Shinsuke Nakamura at WrestleMania 34 and is no longer the WWE Champion, he will most likely be moved to SmackDown Live from RAW. In his place, Seth Rollins could be moved to SmackDown Live instead.
We thank Ring Side News for the update. Dave Meltzer also speculated upon possible opponents for Shinsuke Nakamura, going forward.
In case you didn't know...
AJ Styles has been the most pivotal character on SmackDown Live, since the brand split of 2016. In fact, AJ Styles has described SmackDown Live as 'the house that AJ Styles built'.
As for Seth Rollins, he's been one of RAW's most central figures both as a singles superstar and a tag team one. The dynamics of both brands will change significantly if there's a superstar shake-up.
The heart of the matter
Meltzer discussed the possibility of AJ Styles going over to RAW and then, brought up this point:
Although if they move AJ, they better move somebody good to the other side. Maybe Seth? That could be one of the big moves. When they do the moves, they usually- at least one key person from each side will probably move.
Meltzer also speculated upon the opponents for Shinsuke Nakamura, if he does become Champion. Some of the names he mentioned were Owens and Orton. Meltzer went on to praise the chemistry between Nakamura and Orton when they worked together previously.
What's next?
All of the developments outlined here will take place, if they do, after WrestleMania. We still have a month or so to go, before any of them happen. We doubt that the status quo will get disrupted so close to WrestleMania 34.
Author's take
I think AJ Styles needs to stay on SmackDown Live, for the show to remain interesting and watchable. If anything, I think Rollins on SmackDown Live, in a feud with AJ Styles, may be the right way to go.
I'm also not sure how I feel about Nakamura as WWE Champion, with his limited promo skills and the way he's been booked, thus far.
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