WWE Royal Rumble 2012 Results: Whose Stock Is Rising or Falling After the PPV?

This year's Royal Rumble promised to be a big one.

Many of the WWE's storylines were set to come to an end at the annual event.

However, much to the surprise of everyone, this event may have been used as a continuation instead, as  many fans, including myself, had anticipated an ending to the Kane/Cena feud.

Not to mention, getting some answers regarding Chris Jericho's plans.

Now it appears that this Kane/Cena feud is destined to drag out and seemingly bury the once highly-touted Zack Ryder.

So here we stand just moments removed from the conclusion of the pay-per-view, and we have some inkling on where some of the stars involved stand.

This article will break down five of those stars and let you know who I feel has their stock on the rise or decline. Feel free to weigh in on the comments section, as I am sure you will have your own thoughts.

Daniel Bryan: Up

It appears the WWE is all in with Daniel Bryan, which is great considering he was in the doghouse almost two years ago.

I personally have been enjoying this sneaky heel character and feel Bryan has solidified himself as a main-eventer. If he continues this streak, he very well could be champion heading into WrestleMania.

Zack Ryder: Down

Ryder went from US Champ to the "injury" list in a matter of weeks.

Ryder was not slated to be a part of the Rumble, but coincidentally, he was there hanging out backstage. Unfortunately, Kane was handed an opportunity and rolled out a wheelchair-bound Ryder to the ring and gave him a choke slam.

I realize the WWE is rumored to have big things planned for Ryder, but as of this date, Ryder's stock is falling fast.

Brodus Clay: Up

The Funkasaurus has been on a tear of late and even though his match was not advertised, he still put on a show and got the win.

Clay has been selling this character since the beginning and has definitely separated himself from the "beast" that was going to destroy all who got in his way.

Whoever came up with this idea for Clay should be praised, as he has made Clay a way bigger star than he was a year ago.

Drew McIntyre: Down

He was once called "The Chosen One," but now it appears he is "The Fallen One."

The WWE has done everything they could to bury the former IC Champ.

The Rumble proved to be no different,. Now "Somebody Better Call His Momma," because McIntyre was crushed at the hands of Brodus Clay.

Sheamus: Up

In what was the biggest surprise of the main event, Sheamus won the 2012 Royal Rumble.

This guarantees him a shot at the title of his choosing at WrestleMania. I would not be too surprised to see Sheamus go for the World title over the WWE title.

Simply because the WWE has yet to decide whether or not Cena vs. The Rock will be for the WWE title.

Ultimately, Sheamus has been playing a great face for the blue brand and deserves this shot.

I guess we will see what the WWE has in store for "The Great White" in the weeks and months to come.