Analyzing the top 5 contenders for Jeff Hardy's United States Championship

Jeff Hardy after defeating Shelton Benjamin on his return to Smackdown Live.

#4 Shelton Benjamin

A feud with Hardy could be the kick that Shelton Benjamin needs.

As Shelton Benjamin cut a great heel promo on Smackdown Live, telling the crowd that he didn't need former tag team partner Chad Gable, but it was actually vice versa, we saw a new Benjamin. It is easy to forget how talented he is, both on the mic and in the ring.

Unlike Orton vs Hardy, Benjamin vs Hardy would see two very similar styles be used against each other. That absolutely guarantees car crashes for matches, provided they are allowed to let loose on each other. Benjamin can also use his wrestling background in these matches, keeping Hardy down and minimizing his offense and controlling the bout.

The promos would be extremely intriguing, as Benjamin can be portrayed as someone wanting to regain his influence and clout over the WWE Universe as one of the best wrestlers in the company. They will have to tread this line carefully though, as they may just start showing Benjamin as the Smackdown Live equivalent of Dolph Ziggler. If executed correctly, Hardy and Benjamin could actually be one of the best feuds WWE can offer us.

Edited by Nikki La'ulu