WWE Raw Preview: Dolph Ziggler Aims to Prove He Is Ready for the Main Event

On the 1/2/2012 edition of WWE Monday Night Raw, Dolph Ziggler will receive a shot at CM Punk's WWE Championship.  No one would have predicted that Ziggler would receive the first WWE Championship title shot of 2012 a few months ago, or even just a few weeks ago.

Ziggler has come a long way from his time as Nicky in the Spirit Squad back in 2006.  Since finding his style and voice while under the management of Vickie Guerrero and appearances on Zack Ryder's Z! True Long Island Story YouTube series, he's become one of the top heels on Raw.

It was Ziggler's match with CM Punk weeks ago that really opened the eyes of fans.  The two worked a pay-per-view quality match that rocked the house.  Some viewed it as a test for Ziggler to see how he can hang, and if it was, he passed with flying colors.

The long time United States Champion finally dropped his title to Zack Ryder at TLC, a sure sign that WWE was ready to test the waters with Ziggler elsewhere on the card.  Sure enough, he defeated CM Punk last week on Raw to earn his title shot on Raw this week. 

Although Ziggler will surely lose this match with CM Punk, this is going to be his opportunity to shine.  Anything short of a near flawless performance could set him back greatly, knowing how easily swayed WWE brass can be.  

The early part of 2012 calls for many Superstars to step up and participate in major matches, and Ziggler's performance in the first WWE Championship match of 2012 could make him a lock to be featured among the top names of the WWE in the main event picture.  

Then again, the 1/2/2012 mystery man may cut CM Punk vs. Dolph Ziggler short before Ziggler can make his case.  

What say you, Bleachers, is "The Showoff" ready to make the leap up the card and flirt with the main event?