The fallout of Extreme Rules was the major plot device for this past week’s Monday Night Raw. WWE sowed seeds to build up Great Balls of Fire in the best way possible, whereas SmackDown had the go-home show for Money in the Bank.
While what WWE delivered this week through their programming was interesting, the fans had other topics to talk about on the internet. This ranged from the gimmick that is planned for Lana to the potential return of The Undertaker. Speculation about Kurt Angle and 205 Live also featured on the rumour mill this past week. As always, we will list down the most interesting rumours from the lot in this piece and analyse them one by one.
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#5 Update on Lana’s gimmick
The Rumour: Cageside Seats reports that Lana could potentially fill in the role that used to be played by Eva Maire.
The Potential: WWE’s intentions to push Lana as a big name on the SmackDown roster are fairly evident. However, WWE is likely to give the Ravishing Russian an identity of her own rather than pushing her down Eva Marie road.
The Fallout: Lana is set to face Naomi at Money in the Bank. The SmackDown Women’s title match is bound to give the Russian an excellent platform to showcase her skills.
#4 Reason why Sasha Banks is on 205 Live
The Rumour: According to the Wrestling Observer, Sasha Banks is working on 205 Live to bring more interest to the show. Apparently, there are also plans to feature more women on 205 Live for the same reason.
The Potential: 205 Live has been struggling to get attention for quite some time now. While there is a huge audience that consumes Monday Night Raw and SmackDown Live, the same can't be said for 205 Live. So it makes sense to use recognisable names to expand the show's fan base.
The Fallout: The involvement of Sasha with 205 Live has been met with mixed responses. Some people love it, and others hate it. Even if WWE brings in more female wrestlers to the show, they can expect a similar reaction from the fans.
#3 WWE making moves to avoid cyber hacks
The Rumour: WWE held a mandatory training session for the talent on Cyber Security, as per reports on PW Insider. The superstars were also asked to sign a new social media policy.
The Potential: In the light of the recent hacks, it is not a surprise move from WWE. A handful of WWE’s top superstars were victims of cyber-attacks. The company taking the initiative to help out their employees is a good thing. At the same time, it shows that they are serious about protecting their performers.
The Fallout: Being aware of cyber security is always a good thing. Hopefully, the superstars would be able to avoid such situations thanks to the newly gained knowledge.
#2 Details on Kurt Angle’s storyline
The Rumour: Cageside Seats notes that the on-going storyline involving Kurt Angle could bring Triple H back to television alongside Stephanie McMahon.
The Potential: Last week, the rumours were focused on Stephanie. People suggested that the mystery text storyline involving Kurt would bring Stephanie back into the mix. Now, the name of Hunter is being thrown around as well. The return of Triple H is bound to happen at one point or the other. Considering the history that Kurt and Hunter have, this story line is a lay up.
The Fallout: The fans are eagerly waiting to see Angle get back into the ring. If WWE can set up a Triple H vs. Kurt Angle match for SummerSlam, there will be no shortage of interest.
#1 The Undertaker to stay retired
The Rumour: As per reports on Cageside Seats, there are no plans to bring back The Undertaker despite recent rumours about The Deadman returning.
The Potential: The rumours about The Undertaker’s return were fuelled by comments made by Michael Cole recently on Monday Night Raw. While Cageside Seats is reporting that The Phenom might not return, it could go either way. WWE is yet to announce the retirement of the Phenom officially, and if he is healthy, he could step back into the ring for one final dance.
The Fallout: We should have confirmation about this rumour when we get closer to WrestleMania. WWE hasn't issued an official statement about The Undertaker's reitrement, but don't expect to see him lace up his boots one last time.
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