WWE TLC 2014: Predictions for Event's Biggest Stars
While it may be easy for some fans to just dismiss it as an interchangeable, "B" show thrown out there at the end of the year by tired and weary bookers, WWE’s TLC pay-per-view actually looks set to have considerable impact on the careers of several top stars on the roster.
In possibly the biggest news from the show, John Cena’s title shot against Brock Lesnar is on the line when he takes on Seth Rollins in a match at the Cleveland show.
It’s interesting. No one is that keen to see yet another Cena/Lesnar bout, and the company might seize the chance to drop the match altogether and go with something else.
Personally, fans shouldn’t be too surprised if WWE elect to scrap the title match and have Cena lose at TLC. In addition to giving the company fresher booking opportunities, it would also give Rollins’ career a massive boost.
Evidence to back this up exists in the format of the match: It is a Tables match, meaning Cena can lose without actually sustaining the pinfall. Considering how protective WWE has been of the star, it will probably see this as hugely advantageous.
Seth Rollins
As for Seth Rollins, this bout is a major test for him—and one he should pass with flying colors.
Win or lose, he should perform well and maybe even carry Cena to one of his best matches of the year.
The former Shield star continues to prove he is one of the most skilled wrestlers in the world. With the right booking, there truly will be no stopping this guy. Hopefully, though, he keeps the crazy and high-risk bumps to a minimum when he clashes with Cena—he really has to start thinking about his long-term career.
Dolph Ziggler
As for the midcard: Expect Dolph Ziggler to defeat Luke Harper and win back his Intercontinental Championship when the pair clash in a ladder match on Sunday.
For one thing, he has momentum on his side: The performer has been on a roll over the past few weeks. No doubt WWE will want to reward the star after his tremendous performance at Survivor Series last month.
Crucially, the show takes place in Cleveland—Ziggler’s hometown. Unless it is feeling particularly capricious, WWE will want to send the crowd home happy and satisfied, and give them a nice, heartwarming moment. Really, Harper leaving with the belt makes no sense.
Dean Ambrose
Dean Ambrose will probably wrap up his feud with Bray Wyatt at TLC—and with a solid victory, too.
While his career may have stalled somewhat in recent times, it's clear that the company has something truly special in the wrestler. Not even weird, nonsensical skits, middling promo material and inept booking can diminish that.
A win here would go some way to giving him back his momentum and placing him in a far better position heading into WrestleMania season. While the writers may have made some mistakes with him, even they have to know this.
.png?w=600 "NBA Playoff Bracket After 76ers Win")
