Elimination Chamber Predictions

Typically I’d have my concerns about a Pay-Per-View that only has five matches slotted for the main show, but the Elimination Chamber actually looks like a solid card.  Although I’d really prefer to see an actual Elimination Chamber match from each show represented, I am a big proponent of keeping a match off the card if it dilutes the message.  In recent years we have seen guys like Khali and Santino compete in the Chamber when they have no business being there- I’m glad I’m not seeing that this year.

As the final Pay-Per-View before Wrestlemania– a Wrestlemania that has the chance to be the best one in years- my fingers are crossed that this show gets booked in a way that creates several matches for the company’s annual classic.  My column yesterday featured three brand new matches for Wrestlemania that would help boost the careers of Dolph Ziggler and Jack Swagger.

Other than The Rock vs. CM Punk match, this Pay-Per-View has the look of an unpredictable one.  With that being said, let’s get to my predictions:

Antonio Cesaro vs. The Miz: The rivalry has been a bit dull for quite some time, but I did really like how they made Cesaro look like such a beast on RAW.  I’m nearly inclined to see Miz win this one because Cesaro seems to be destined for something bigger, although I don’t see a place for him (Cesaro) in the World Title mix just yet.

Winner: Antonio Cesaro

Kaityln vs. Tamina: Who cares?

Winner: Tamina

The Shield vs. Ryback, John Cena and Sheamus: Call me nostalgic but I’ve always enjoyed the “invasion” type angles.  The nWo, the Alliance, Nexus, etc.- they all produced great television.  I’m really high on Dean Ambrose right now- and as a whole, The Shield’s rise is becoming more and more organic.  The Shield winning makes the most sense, although Ryback is looking weaker and weaker because of The Shield.  I disagree with it, but I don’t see The Shield walking out of New Orleans with a victory.

Winners: Ryback, John Cena and Sheamus

WHC Elimination Chamber Match: This match looks great.  I could see four of the six in this match winning.  I could see a potential Kane vs. Mark Henry Wrestlemania rivalry coming out of this, as well as a Chris Jericho vs. Randy Orton feud coming out of this.  In the end, a Daniel Bryan World Title feud is the best bet for a Wrestlemania classic.

Winner: Daniel Bryan

Alberto Del Rio vs. Big Show: Much like many of Del Rio’s feuds, this one has gone one Pay-Per-View  too long.  I really want to buy into Del Rio, but I’m not sure it will ever happen.  Although his current role is much more captivating than he ever was as a heel, it’s really hard for me to identify with the character.  One thing ADR does have going for him is that he does seem genuine, though, in many of his promos.  I see ADR winning this match by the skin of his teeth.

Winner: Alberto Del Rio

BONUS: This is Dolph Ziggler’s time.  Big Show is going to lay out ADR with the Knockout Punch immediately following the match and out comes Ziggler to cash in the briefcase.  Dolph Ziggler walks out of New Orleans as the new World Heavyweight Champion.

The Rock vs. CM Punk: I really want to be surprised by this, but unfortunately it’s been the most predictable storyline of 2013 so far.  My hope is that CM Punk looks really strong in this match, because The Rock is the most protected talent in the WWE right now.  I’m predicting a clean finish here, but likely a better match than the one at the ‘Rumble.

Winner: The Rock

That does it- the final show before Wrestlemania.  Quite honestly, Wrestlemania is stacking up and it looks as if it will be a solid show.  A mix of internet rumors and what I think could happen has a card that looks to be the best in years.

Until next time…

 

-You can follow me on Twitter at @Eddy327