2019 Men's Royal Rumble Match
Who will best 29 of wrestling's very best competitors for the privilege of challenging for a world championship at WrestleMania 35? There have been rumors, so let's address those first. Kenny Omega has long been rumored as a possible entrant, however Omega is said to be under contract with NJPW until the end of January. Unless special concessions have been made, wrestling at the Royal Rumble would cause Omega to be in breach of contract.
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What about Roman Reigns? While Reigns is said to be making progress, there has been no indication that he is anywhere near returning to the ring. Recovering from leukemia is a challenging endeavor. It's unrealistic to assume Reigns would return this quickly.
Then there's John Cena. WWE recently reported that John Cena was injured more than a week ago on RAW and that his Royal Rumble status was now in question. This was followed by reports about Cena's injury being a work. According to some, Cena may miss the Royal Rumble to resume his acting work in Hollywood.
Even The Rock has been rumored. If he wins, a Rock vs Brock WrestleMania match would make sense, but what does The Rock do these days that doesn't earn him $100 million or so? What benefit would he have to gain by returning?
Perhaps, if cousin Roman Reigns still held the Universal Championship, he could help further the career of someone he cares about, but don't count on The Rock's return just to have another run with Brock Lesnar.
The winner of this year's Royal Rumble is simple. Think about the last 365 days. Who has been the most consistent workhorse in the WWE? The answer is clear: Seth Rollins. Rollins has been involved in some of the year's most exciting matches and in the absence of Roman Reigns has stepped up as both an in-ring performer and locker room leader. There is a reason why Rollins is the Vegas favorite to win the event. He is the best male wrestler in the WWE today.
While Rollins is expected to be the victor here, also look for the following possibilities: The quickly rising Drew McIntyre could put in a Royal Rumble performance akin to Kane's and Roman Reigns' in years past. Kevin Owens, who has been out of action since early October, could also return. If he does, look for him to target Bobby Lashley, who 'took him out' of action.
In the end, Rollins will win in Shawn Michaels-like fashion setting up a WrestleMania match against Universal Champion Brock Lesnar.
Winner: Seth Rollins
