WWE Rumors: The Rock, Randy Orton, Chris Jericho and Monday's Top WWE Buzz

If last week's 1,000th episode of Raw was the main event, how does WWE possibly follow it up?

We know what the hook to this show is—CM Punk's explanation—but the star power is not going to be anywhere near what we saw on July 23. 

Hopefully, Raw can figure out a way to be as entertaining as it was last week without the stars showing up. You could feel a different air about the 1,000th show, and we know that was a one-time thing. 

Either way, there will be entertaining moments to watch for on Monday's show. To get you ready for the festivities, here is all the news, notes and information you need to get set for the 1,001st episode of Raw. 

The Rock's WrestleMania Status in Doubt?

Fans everywhere just assumed that The Rock was going to be at WrestleMania, no questions asked. It turns out that might not be the case, as he could reportedly be in promotion mode for the new G.I. Joe movie. 

Question on Everybody's Mind: The Rock wouldn't abandon WWE in its hour of need, right?

Our Take: Given that The Rock has already committed to doing a match at the Royal Rumble, it is hard to believe that he wouldn't work a match at WrestleMania. WWE has already teased it. The Rock is a machine when it comes to juggling careers, so I am not worried. 

Hype Meter: 5 out of 5 sequels

I can't see Vince McMahon start building the biggest show of the year around someone who he didn't think would be there. That is not to say things can't happen—this is wrestling, after all—but McMahon is not that dumb. 

Deeper Dive: The Rock's WrestleMania status (Wrestling Inc)

Randy Orton Ready to Return to Raw

It turns out that absence makes the heart grow fonder for those WWE people who were not happy with Randy Orton after he was suspended for 60 days. Reportedly, Orton is scheduled to return to Raw on Monday for the first time in two months. 

Question on Everybody's Mind: What will Orton be doing?

Our Take: That is the $64,000 question, isn't it? It stands to reason that Orton will be there to set up something for SummerSlam, though no one really knows who his opponent will be. The report says he is going to work with Sheamus and Alberto Del Rio, though that doesn't really light my world on fire. 

Hype Meter: 4 out of 5 not-so-surprising returns

I would like to see Orton work a program with Daniel Bryan, who doesn't really have anything to do except argue with AJ. If Orton needs time to work off the ring rust, there is no better opponent than Bryan. 

Deeper Dive: News on Orton's return (Wrestling Inc)

Chris Jericho's Last Stand

We could fill up hours discussing the number of rumors surrounding Chris Jericho's status with WWE since he came back in January. Now, reportedly, we have some new information on what to expect after SummerSlam. He is not scheduled for anything after the summer's biggest show. 

Question on Everybody's Mind: So, will Dolph Ziggler actually beat Jericho?

Our Take: Assuming WWE goes with the Jericho-Ziggler feud at SummerSlam, I think it is safe to say that Ziggler is actually going to get a win over a top star on a pay-per-view. That is a huge step in the right direction, though there is a long way to go for him. 

Hype Meter: 4 out of 5 Zig Zags

Hopefully this will give WWE the incentive to give Ziggler and Jericho the time to put on a great match that serves as a fitting send-off for Jericho, be it forever or until he comes back again. 

Deeper Dive: Latest on Chris Jericho (F4WOnline.com, h/t Wrestling Observer)

Check back for more on the WWE as it comes, and check out Bleacher Report’s Wrestling page to get your fill of the WWE. For more WWE talk, check out Ring Rust Radio for all of the hot topics you just can’t miss.

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