WWE Fastlane 2019: Ronda Rousey ensuring Becky Lynch's win was the best possible outcome
WWE booked its way out of a tricky situation. Instead of Becky Lynch displaying super-human ability and overcoming the healthier Charlotte Flair, Becky was the beneficiary of Ronda Rousey's interference: Rousey punched Becky while the latter was locked into Charlotte's Figure 8 submission hold.
Even though the ending was never in doubt, the manner in which it unfolded serves the storyline well - the newly-turned villainous women's champion Rousey got some logical character development by inserting Becky in the main event of WrestleMania, which is what she wanted the whole time.
In her recent shoot interview, Ronda ripped into the WWE universe, calling it 'fake' and 'scripted' - typical fuel to fan the ire of WWE fans. This continues to build her unhinged heel persona, while Becky's babyface dream journey to the main event is realized. Fastlane proved to be a rather short and effective milestone in the overarching story between the three participants in the biggest match in the history of the women's division.
The match was booked well, with Becky getting some offence in, even locking in her DisArmer submission move on Charlotte in what was a competitive match between the two fierce rivals.
Charlotte continues to look out of place, considering the real conflict lies between Rousey and Becky, but Charlotte's in-ring prowess and edgy personality should only contribute positively to the first-ever all women's WrestleMania main event.
The fans in attendance were heavily in favour of Becky, rooting for 'The Man' to secure her spot. There have been glimpses of what this match could deliver - the three women have shared the ring on many occasions; Charlotte has battled both Becky and Ronda in singles competition; the history between Becky and Charlotte has been played up; and Ronda's recent heel turn adds the mean streak that was lacking in her arsenal.
An interesting aspect to keep an eye on will be the management of Becky's storyline injury, which has been a constant plot point from the Royal Rumble. Becky has fallen victim to sneak attacks from Charlotte on many occasions, rendering her unable to perform at a hundred per cent. However, this positions Becky as the underdog going into the match and will almost certainly add to the drama surrounding the action.
All the pieces are now in place for the match at WrestleMania, which is now officially a triple threat for the RAW Women's Championship.