WWE Heads to Turin

WWE is set to host its inaugural premium live event in Italy this Sunday, May 31, at the Inalpi Arena in Turin. This highly anticipated debut features a packed five-match card, headlined by four championship clashes and a high-profile showdown between Oba Femi and Brock Lesnar. A panel of experts offers their insights into the biggest storylines heading into the show.


The Tribal Combat: Roman Reigns vs. Jacob Fatu

The rivalry between Roman Reigns and Jacob Fatu has become a focal point of WWE programming. Analysts note that Fatu has successfully established himself as a legitimate main-event contender rather than just another side character in the Bloodline saga. While some critics feel the narrative has become repetitive, most agree it has been a necessary evolution of the ongoing family drama.

«The story is great and the in-ring work is wonderful, though the shift into Tribal Combat felt slightly rushed,» suggests Raj Prashad, who remains intrigued by the possibility of a Fatu victory. However, other experts believe Reigns will retain his title to continue his dominant run heading into SummerSlam, viewing his presence as a major marketing asset for the company.


Cody Rhodes and the Question of a Heel Turn

The status of Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes remains a hot topic, with many fans debating if a villainous turn is on the horizon. While analysts observe subtle hints of a more ruthless demeanor, most argue that now is not the right time for a drastic character shift.

Regarding his title defense against Gunther, the consensus is that Rhodes should remain champion. Analysts suggest that keeping the title on Rhodes allows for better long-term storytelling, potentially leading to a marquee feud with Randy Orton or a high-stakes rematch against Sami Zayn in the future.


Brock Lesnar’s Status and the Future of Oba Femi

The recent "retirement" announcement from Brock Lesnar has sparked significant skepticism. Many analysts view it as a classic wrestling "swerve" designed to generate heat. There is a general feeling that Lesnar will likely look to even the score with Oba Femi at Clash in Italy, potentially setting the stage for a final retirement match at SummerSlam in Minnesota, where Lesnar’s career began.


Women's Division Dynamics

The women's title scene has become increasingly crowded, with various talents vying for focus. The upcoming Rhea Ripley vs. Jade Cargill rematch has drawn mixed reviews; some see it as a necessary step for Cargill's development, while others feel the division currently lacks clear narrative direction due to the involvement of too many external factions.


Sol Ruca’s Development

The trajectory of Sol Ruca on the main roster has generated debate. While some describe her start as "mishandled" due to technical errors in the ring and inconsistent booking, others argue that working with a veteran like Becky Lynch is a crucial learning experience. Experts suggest that a loss in this program could ultimately serve to build Ruca’s character as she climbs toward future championship opportunities.


Event Predictions

  • World Heavyweight Championship (Tribal Combat): Roman Reigns (favored by Dansby, Jackman, and Riggs) vs. Jacob Fatu (favored by Prashad)
  • Undisputed Championship: Cody Rhodes (favored by all panelists) vs. Gunther
  • Women's Championship: Rhea Ripley (favored by Jackman and Riggs) vs. Jade Cargill (favored by Dansby and Prashad)
  • Women's Intercontinental Championship: Becky Lynch (favored by Dansby and Jackman) vs. Sol Ruca (favored by Prashad and Riggs)
  • Special Attraction: Brock Lesnar (favored by Dansby, Jackman, and Prashad) vs. Oba Femi (favored by Riggs)