We’re a few days away from Wrestlemania 33! My lovely wife and I will be live in attendance. Despite the questionable card, I’m very excited to attend my first Mania. I have a feeling in my gut that it’s going to be better than we think it is. Without further adieu here are my Wrestlemania 33 predictions for the Smackdown Live matches on the card.
WWE Champion Bray Wyatt vs. Randy Orton
Winner: Bray Wyatt
Why: Bray has been one of the worst booked WWE Champions in quite some time. Orton burned down his house and his sister’s grave. Instead of introducing Orton to the jump zone, Wyatt serenaded Orton. To turn this WWE Championship reign around Bray needs a solid win here.
Shane McMahon vs. AJ Styles
Winner: AJ Styles
Why: Why? Because he’s AJ freaking Styles, that’s why! AJ is the best in-ring performer on the WWE roster and losing to Shane would be a big middle finger to the hardcore fans. I have a hard time buying Shane defeating Styles in a regular rules match.
John Cena & Nikki Bella vs. The Miz & Maryse
Winner: The Miz & Maryse
Why: The build to this match has been great. Everybody is expecting Cena & Nikki to win and then Cena to propose to Nikki. With the verbal burying The Miz & Maryse received on the go-home Smackdown, I see them pulling a huge upset victory. Even though Cena & Nikki will lose, Cena can turn things around for the couple with the long awaited proposal.
Intercontinental Champion Dean Ambrose vs. Baron Corbin
Winner: Baron Corbin
Why: It’s been very clear that Meekmahan and company have big plans for Corbin. Every time he’s on the screen JBL is telling us that he’s a future WWE Champion (even in the video game!). I believe this will be the first step to elevating Corbin as a main eventer.
SmackDown Women’s Championship Match (Kickoff Match)
Winner: Naomi
Why: Naomi was wrongfully stripped of the Smackdown Women’s title. They pulled out the old “30 Day Defense” rule. It’s been past 30 days since Chris Jericho defended his title and he hasn’t been stripped. Namoi made a triumphant return on the go home Smackdown. Winning back the title she never lost in her hometown will be a Wrestlemania moment.
