From the WWE rumour mill: Brock Lesnar to compete at Royal Rumble but not defend the WWE Universal Championship?

What's the story?

The Universal Championship is not just the biggest title on RAW. It is also the most prized possession in the industry.

According to a rumour on Cageside Seats, Brock Lesnar will be competing in the Royal Rumble, but only in a non title match. This is possibly because the company cannot find a suitable opponent for The Beast Incarnate, at this point.

In case you didn't know...

Unlike the rest of the current roster, Brock Lesnar does not work a full time schedule. At the same time, he holds the Universal Championship, a title that hasn't been defended since 'No Mercy' in September, 2017 against Braun Strowman, the 'Monster Among Men'.

By all indications, the plan is to have Lesnar hold the championship right until WrestleMania 34, when he will be defeated by Roman Reigns. Finn Balor was deemed not 'over' enough to face Lesnar, according to speculation by wrestling guru Dave Meltzer.

The heart of the matter

The last time Brock Lesnar stepped into a WWE ring on pay-per-view was in a showcase match against WWE Champion, AJ Styles, from SmackDown Live, and the two men had a clash to remember.

The rationale between having a non title match at the Survivor Series may be much the same. It would allow Lesnar to face a worthy contender from SmackDown Live, in a marquee contest. At this point, it's difficult to presume who it just may be.

What's next?

We impatiently await Brock Lesnar's next appearance on RAW. Lesnar has not made an appearance on television since the match with AJ Styles, working an injury to his knee. His appearance should shed light on where the Beast goes next.

Author's take

It makes absolutely no sense to have a non-title match with Brock Lesnar. If the plan is to have Lesnar undefeated until WrestleMania, it's difficult to see why WWE cannot find a worthy contender.

All the person would have to do, is go to Suplex City and lose to the Beast Incarnate.