Royal Rumble 2012: Why Chris Jericho Shouldn't Win the Rumble

Chris Jericho has whipped up a storm since his return, teasing the fans to the point of practically insulting them. The stage is set for him to come out and make a statement at the Rumble, although this will presumably be with his actions rather than his words.

Now, I know I said in my previous article that I think Jericho will be the last man standing—and I do—and that it would set up some interesting angles and story-lines—and it would—but I'm beginning to realize that the WWE doesn't really need him to win.

Punk is the biggest face in the company, so whoever he goes against at Wrestlemania will ostensibly be a heel. Jericho is the most obvious choice for this: he is a great wrestler, a great entertainer, and, in all honesty, one of the greatest of our time. His feud with CM Punk would be incredible, but Wrestlemania simply doesn’t need him in the title match. The card is already shaping up strongly with The Undertaker, The Rock and Cena all scheduled for matches.

The time is perfect for the WWE to give a slightly smaller wrestler a shot: someone like Barrett or Cody Rhodes would be perfect. With Punk and Bryan holding titles, it explicitly shows that wrestlers can work up the ranks from independent promotions.The fact that WWE has even acknowledged the existence of Ring of Honour and New Japan Pro Wrestling is a remarkable development, and, in my opinion, is for the better. By raising the profile of the smaller companies, it helps the industry as a whole: more recognition for up-and-coming wrestlers means more motivation for developing talent.

Main-eventing Wrestlemania is a daunting task and needs someone strong and reliable.  The WWE probably doesn’t want to take the risk with someone who isn’t a certified "legend" (or John Cena). Yet I feel that with some good angles, preparation and training, it could all come together. They have 4 months to build up a great feud, after all. 

With Jericho, however, he comes completely ready to be the main event, and that might appeal to the WWE more.