WWE top five rumors of the week and analysis: 22 August 2017

Updates about the superstar shake up proved to be a major rumor this week — Updates about the superstar shake up proved to be a major rumour this week

#2 Bobby Roode to replace Baron Corbin

The Rumour: The Wrestling Observer notes that there is backstage heat on Corbin right now. Cageside Seats followed up this by mentioning that Roode will be used in the upper-mid card or main event role that Corbin was intended to fill.

The Potential: It’s hard to compare Corbin and Roode; both are extremely different performers and replacing one with another in-term of skill and experience is unacceptable.

However, from a storyline perspective, Roode could replace "The Lone Wolf". The former NXT Champion could be used in a similar way to how Corbin was used on the SmackDown roster.

The Fallout: If the rumour is indeed true, Corbin is expected to drop down the ranks on SmackDown. Roode will get the opportunities that Corbin was gifted in the past few weeks.