SK Exclusive: Seth Rollins almost moved to SmackDown LIVE
What's story?
Seth Rollins almost moved to SmackDown LIVE during the recent Superstar Shake-up. However, the WWE opted to keep him on Raw to leave the door open for a possible Shield program or reunion later in the year.
In case you didn't know...
Seth Rollins remained on the Raw brand after last week's Superstar Shake-up. He was expected to switch brands following his victory over Triple H at WrestleMania 33.
The Heart of the matter
Seth Rollins was initially set to trade places with AJ Styles. The Phenomenal One was originally supposed to trade places with Roman Reigns, but the decision to keep Styles on SD LIVE ultimately came down to how the WWE wanted to handle the Big Dog. The WWE decided that SD LIVE was still the B show and that it couldn't have the trio of Reigns, Orton and Cena. Once it was decided that Reigns was staying on Raw, the Styles move was practically dead.
Also read: Steve Austin comments on the problem with Seth Rollins
However, there was late consideration given to trading Rollins and Styles. The WWE were said to be keen to still have Styles on Raw and to keep Seth Rollins away from Stephanie McMahon. This is because the Raw writers feel that the feud between Rollins and the Authority has run its course.
In the end, the WWE opted to keep all the Shield members on one brand to leave the door open for a potential program that involves the three. Therefore, Rollins and Styles remained as they were while Ambrose and Owens switched places.
What's next?
Current plans for Seth Rollins will see him continue his feud with Samoa Joe. The match will take place at Raw’s next PPV, Payback. The match was originally set to take place at WWE Fastlane; however, it was cancelled due to Seth Rollins’ injury.
Author's take
AJ Styles will benefit from remaining on a brand where he can have excellent matches and win the world title. Meanwhile, despite winning against Triple H at WrestleMania 33, Seth Rollins certainly isn't set for a big year on Raw. With Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns the likely plan for WrestleMania 34, Seth will have to tread water as a main event guy who can not go any higher than his current position.
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