WWE Rumor Roundup - Sasha Banks' release request rejected, Plans for The Miz's title reign, Former Superstar ready to return - 22nd February 2021

#2 Notes on the United States Championship match from WWE Elimination Chamber 2021

The WWE United States Championship changed hands at Elimination Chamber as Matt Riddle pinned John Morrison to win the title.

However, the Triple Threat match was in jeopardy of becoming a singles contest after Keith Lee was removed from the match hours before the PPV. WWE didn't change their decision and booked a pre-show match to determine Keith Lee's replacement. John Morrison was picked, and he was ultimately just in the match to eat the pinfall.

Dave Meltzer also noted in the WOR that WWE didn't change the match format as the title change would not have worked in a singles match. Meltzer would add that WWE could have had anyone in the third spot.

"Now you know why they didn't do a singles match, and why they were adamant, you know, originally, if Keith Lee was not it, but that just wouldn't work for what they were trying to do. So, that's why they had to get Morrison in the match or somebody. (It) could have been anyone in that third man spot..."

Meltzer would later add that Matt Riddle signed a new WWE contract, explaining why WWE rewarded him with the United States title.

WWE is also pivoting to a Bobby Lashley vs. Drew McIntyre program, and dropping the US title without taking the pin keeps him strong.