Hey yo Good Brothers’ Nation! It is the time of year when we’re all reminded that Undertaker should probably be behind bars for attempted murder. Hell in a Cell 2018 is upon us and the night is sure to bring its share of hellish moments (Orton will undoubtedly at the very least stretch Hardy’s ear lobe again).
Before we get started, I have to get something off my chest. Post-Summer Slam WWE has completely destroyed the character of Braun Strowman. After a nearly two year build up, they took him behind the barn, and put him down like a rabid dog. Not only did they turn him heel but they completely ruined his monster persona but having him seek out Ziggler and McIntyre for help dealing with The Shield.
There are at least one-hundred different ways that could have been booked but this is what we were given, so let’s dive in to the card.
Daniel Bryan and Brie Bella vs The Miz and Maryse
This match is just something to keep Bryan vs Miz going. Brie has looked rusty at best since her return and Maryse has never been known as a technician. Look for the guys to carry this match and some shenanigans for the finish.
Excitement Level: Reclining
Prediction: Miz and Maryse
AJ Styles (c) vs Samoa Joe
This rivalry seems to be getting hotter and hotter! This is the true main event feud of the entire promotion, but seems to be getting 2nd class treatment, even on its own show. This will be a great match but do not look for an end to this story anytime soon.
Excitement Level: Standing
Prediction: AJ via DQ
The New Day (c) vs Rusev Day
The second PPV in a row where we have tournament winners vying for the SDL Tag Titles. I love a tournament but too much of a good thing can be bad. I feel confident these two teams will put on a great match, but there is very little setup for this face-off.
Excitement Level: Edge of my seat
Prediction: The New Day
Roman Reigns (c) vs Braun Strowman w/Mick Foley special guest referee in Hell in a Cell
As bad as I hate the build up, both of these guys are great at what they do in the ring. It will be interesting to see how Foley factors in the outcome.
Excitement Level: Sitting
Prediction: Roman
Ronda Rousey (c) vs Alexa Bliss
Pass
Excitement Level: n/a
Prediction: Rousey
Jeff Hardy vs Randy Orton, Hell in a Cell
Let’s face it, we’re all watching this just to see what extremes Jeff is willing to take in his first HIAC match.
Excitement Level: Edge of my seat
Prediction: Orton
Charlotte Flair (c) vs Becky Lynch
I’m really loving Becky’s turn and both of these ladies are next level workers. This should be a great match, I’m calling motn!
Excitement Level: Standing
Prediction: Charlotte
Ziggler/McIntyre (c) vs Ambrose/Rollins
Rollins was on fire until he met the wet blanket that is Dolph Ziggler. I think all of these guys are great in the ring, so it will be an entertaining match. However, if anything is worse than Strowman’s last 3 weeks, it is how the tag division on Raw has been handled.
Excitement Level: n/a
Prediction: Ambrose/Rollins
We have reached the conclusion of our HIAC preview. I’m going to try to remain hopeful that this event will deliver. I’m sure the action will be great and despite my beef with the creative direction on Raw, I’m still looking forward to tuning in (at some point) to check out Hell in a Cell 2018.