WWE legend to announce his retirement, Paul Heyman replaced by former champ? 4 predictions for WWE RAW and SmackDown this week
The post-SummerSlam editions of WWE RAW and SmackDown were quite eventful. From Wyatt Sicks' in-ring debut to Randy Orton's return to the red brand to Roman Reigns annihilating the Tongan brothers on the blue brand, both the shows had their fair share of big moments.
The creative team deserves a lot of appreciation for how they booked both shows last week. Fans should expect Triple H and Co. to keep the ball rolling this week as well.
WWE is expected to continue its build towards its next international Premium Live Event, Bash in Berlin, during this week. The Stamford-based promotion could announce some new matches for the spectacle on WWE RAW and SmackDown.
What else could happen in WWE during this week? Here are four bold predictions for the upcoming episodes of RAW and SmackDown:
#4. AJ Styles to announce his retirement
AJ Styles was rumored to make his much-awaited return on SmackDown last week. However, fans were left disappointed as that didn't happen. That said, The Phenomenal One could make a comeback on the upcoming episode of the blue brand with a shocking announcement.
Styles has been on the sidelines since his loss against Cody Rhodes at Clash at the Castle. The WWE legend has previously hinted that he is close to retirement. While he faked his retirement a while back, that may not be the case this time around as AJ could return on Friday night to announce that he is hanging his boots for good.
#3. Rikishi could be Paul Heyman's replacement in The Bloodline
Paul Heyman was victimized and humiliated before getting kicked out of The Bloodline a few weeks ago. While many expected Solo Sikoa to recruit a new Wiseman, that hasn't happened yet.
However, with Roman Reigns outclassing and humiliating him on two separate occasions, it can be argued that Solo is in dire need of some guidance. Hence, The Street Champion could have his father and former Intercontinental champion, Rikishi, return as the new Wiseman of The Bloodline.
The WWE Hall of Famer's addition to The Bloodline would not only strengthen it further but also spice up The Bloodline saga.
#2. Damian Priest defeats Carlito on WWE RAW; The Judgment Day attacks
After getting betrayed by Finn Balor at SummerSlam, Damian Priest cut a fiery promo on the previous episode of WWE RAW, vowing to destroy Finn Balor and the rest of The Judgment Day.
Now, The Archer of Infamy will lock horns with The Judgment Day's Carlito on the red show tonight. While the heel stable is expected to interfere in the bout, fans should expect The Archer of Infamy to beat the odds to pick up a win.
However, following the match, the entire Judgment Day could launch a brutal attack on Priest. This could lead to Rhea Ripley showing up to make the save. Mami could join forces with The Punishment to take out the entire Judgment Day, much to the delight of fans.
#1. Gunther takes out Randy Orton on WWE RAW
Randy Orton made an electrifying return to WWE RAW last week. The Viper made a comeback to challenge Gunther for the World Heavyweight Title, which The Ring General accepted. The duo will now face each other at Bash in Berlin.
However, before their potential slugfest, Randy Orton will appear on tonight's WWE RAW to address the Imperium leader. Things, though, may not end well for The Apex Predator as he could be blindsided by Gunther.
The Ring General could lay waste to Orton, sending him a strong message before their match on August 31.