It's been a whirlwind week in the world of professional wrestling, with title changes and major returns dominating the headlines. From WWE to AEW, the action has been intense, and the WINC staff has been busy sorting out the winners and losers. Here's a breakdown of the top performers and those who fell short, with a heavy dose of personal commentary and analysis.
Winners
The Bloodline Storyline
In my opinion, the Bloodline storyline is a clear winner this week. The inclusion of Royce Keys into the secondary angle surrounding the stable was a much-needed boost. Keys' confrontation with Fatu and Jimmy Uso on Friday's SmackDown was a logical move, and his attempt to reason with Fatu added depth to the story. While Keys has been involved in backstage segments with Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fatu, his direct interaction with the Usos was a refreshing change. The potential for a SummerSlam match against Fatu could be a game-changer for the blue brand, providing a much-needed fresh story.
Baron Corbin
Baron Corbin is a force to be reckoned with, and his return to WWE is a welcome sight. His big, loudmouth personality and physical presence make him a perfect fit for the WWE's circus. Corbin's return booking, despite some issues, showcases his potential as a top star. Whether he becomes Danhausen's heavy or retires Kurt Angle, Corbin's presence is a significant win for WWE, especially with the company's current focus on big, charismatic performers.
Kenny Omega
Kenny Omega's AEW World Championship victory is a feel-good moment, especially after nearly five years without the title. His win over MJF at the Beach Break edition of Dynamite was a testament to his evolution as a wrestler. Omega's ability to create big moments and his understanding of the age factor have made him a dominant force in the ring. The speculation about his reign and potential matches adds to the excitement, and I'm eager to see how his title run unfolds.
Losers
Sami Zayn
Sami Zayn's nine-day reign as WWE Champion was a bit of a letdown. His loss to CM Punk on Raw, a former rival, was a surprising turn of events. Zayn's lack of appearances on SmackDown and the unclear direction for SummerSlam leave him in a difficult position. The mental health break might be a strategic move, but it's a shame to see him step away from the main event picture.
Konosuke Takeshita
Konosuke Takeshita's loss to Kyle Fletcher in the AEW International Championship match was a disappointment. His reign as champion didn't live up to the hype, and his involvement in The Conglomeration's business made him a background character. Takeshita's loss to Yota Tsuji in the G1 Climax opening night further hurt his chances. The Fire Blaster finisher might be impressive, but it's a tough road ahead for 'The Alpha'.
AEW's Championship Overflow
AEW's copious number of championships is a double-edged sword. While the company has a lot of titles, the frequent changes and lack of focus on specific championships can be overwhelming. The International Championship, National Championship, and the various ROH belts create a sense of chaos. The AEW World Championship remains the most prestigious, but the other titles need more attention to stand out.
In conclusion, this week's winners and losers showcase the highs and lows of professional wrestling. The Bloodline storyline, Baron Corbin's return, and Kenny Omega's championship reign are reasons to celebrate, while Sami Zayn's short title run and Takeshita's losses are reminders of the challenges in the industry. AEW's championship situation needs a reevaluation to maintain the excitement and focus on the titles.
