4 Predictions for WWE SmackDown Live: May 9, 2017

The Phenomenal One Confronts the Prizefighter

With Chris Jericho leaving WWE following his loss last week, Kevin Owens is on top of the world. Standing tall with his second United States Championship, he prepares for an upcoming clash against AJ Styles. The two men are set to compete at Backlash, but they haven’t had many interactions over the past few weeks.

Odds are, this is an issue that’s going to be solved in the near future. Both of these athletes are considered to be popular superstars on SmackDown Live. Their star-power gives the Blue Brand a huge boost in credibility, and so WWE will want to develop this feud as soon as possible. One of the easiest ways to do so is to create an in-ring interaction between them. Owens can arrive on tonight’s episode intent on gloating about his recent victory.

Instead of being allowed a chance to brag about his achievements, the Prizefighter would be interrupted by AJ Styles. Reminding the champion of his upcoming challenge, the Phenomenal One could mention his recent successes. By doing so, he makes it clear to Owens that his next challenge may very well be his greatest yet.

Knowing WWE, if they go down this route, they’ll opt to have a physical confrontation as well. While they certainly can do so, it’d probably be best to save it for next week’s episode. That way, fans would gain more interest (if done correctly) for Backlash.