As most of us already know, October 4th marks Smackdown Live’s transition from USA to Fox, and there’s plenty in store for us.
Not only did Brock Lesnar’s challenge for Kofi Kingston’s WWE heavy weight title to kick off the first show on Fox, but there’s a rumor floating around that Trish Stratus is also going to be there.
The Beast of burden
There’s only one reason Lesnar’s coming back and it’s to put “asses in the seats” on Smackdown Live’s inaugural night on Fox.
Not only is he the only remaining heel talent that isn’t involved in a storyline of that Kingston hasn’t beaten to retain his title, but he’s a guaranteed draw. They don’t even have to work to get people to tune in to watch, and he’ll put Kingston over big time.
The thing is, Lesnar almost has to win this. Kingston’s run has been fun and he’s been great, but the “prove myself” storylines have grown stale (It’ll be the one they use here, guaranteed.) If Kingston loses and then has to pursue the championship again, it’ll put him over more than if he wins it.
Part of the problem is the WWE isn’t manufacturing larger than life stars anymore, despite what they like to believe. They ignore those the fans really love (Strowman, for example) and push those they believe are the future. Kingston is stuck in the middle as he’s an awesome talent and we’re buying into him, just not the character arc anymore.
Stratusfaction Guaranteed
While Stratus’ in ring career is over following her match against Charlotte Flair at SummerSlam, it opens the debate as to why she’ll be there. Since it’s before the upcoming draft, it’s reasonable to think she’ll be the new commissioner or general manager. Though this may be appealing to many, especially given how she’s still loved and respected by the fans.
It’d be a fun way to bring her back into the promotion while also drawing in fans that have drifted away since her retirement or for general reasons over the last couple of years.
Of course, she could simply be there for a couple of weeks for the draft or/and to boost ratings on a new network. Either way, it’s going to be an interesting show.
