Top 5 potential challengers to AJ Styles' WWE title at Royal Rumble 2018
Ever since joining the WWE, AJ Styles has proved why he was already considered the best in the world. Not only has he now conquered the top-flight in the wrestling industry, by becoming a two-time WWE World Champion in his first two years, but he's also established himself as an integral part of Smackdown and is one of the main reasons as to why Smackdown has frequently beaten RAW in the battle of the ratings.
His next challenger, Jinder Mahal, had an impressive run with the WWE Championship, holding it for a total of 170 days, which is longer than many legends in the business have managed.
After wins over top superstars such as Randy Orton and Shinsuke Nakamura, the reign of 'The Modern Day Maharajah' finally came to an end last month, as AJ Styles defeated him for the WWE Championship whilst touring in Manchester, England.
Jinder Mahal has an opportunity to reclaim the top prize in a few weeks time. In case AJ Styles defends his championship at Clash of Champions, I have compiled a list of stars who could be his next challenger, at Royal Rumble 2018:
#5 Rusev
Rusev has been a dominant force ever since making his debut on the main roster, coincidentally, at the Royal Rumble event back in 2014.
'The Bulgarian Brute' struck up an impressive winning streak, during which time, he defeated Sheamus to capture his first United States championship. His first pinfall loss didn't come until Wrestlemania 31, losing to John Cena, which also marked the end of his 146-day reign as United States champion.
Since then, after having his momentum stalled by 'The Franchise Player', his quest for dominance has been somewhat intermittent. He did manage to win back the United States Championship in May 2016 and hold it for 126 days, before losing it to Roman Reigns at Clash of Champions 2016.
This year has been very underwhelming for the Bulgarian, after suffering an injury and then failing to make the same impact he did in 2014.
However, could we see a new rise for Rusev in 2018? If he did battle AJ Styles for the WWE Title at Royal Rumble, the WWE Universe could be treated to the beautiful, angelic voice of his manager.
Unfortunately, I'm not on about his Russian bride, Lana. Aaron English wants to melt our hearts, with a new song that not only commemorates Rusev Day, but also Rusev's first WWE World Championship reign.
Or, is it more likely that English will be singing to Rusev 'You Don't Want None' of AJ Styles?