4 Predictions for WWE SmackDown Live: July 4, 2017

A Phenomenal Battle Royal

Drawing upon the patriotic theme the Fourth of July brings about, WWE has announced a high-profile match for SmackDown Live. Tonight, a battle royal will take place to determine a new number one contender to the United States Championship. The winner goes on to face Kevin Owens in the near future, most likely at Battleground. Thus far, one of the top names that is set to participate is none other than AJ Styles.

Following WrestleMania 33, the Phenomenal One began a face turn which has solidified his standing with the fans. However, this recent change of heart hasn’t allowed him to gain championship gold. While it was due to underhanded tactics, Styles failed to defeat Owens at the last SmackDown Live event; Backlash. Looking to avenge the embarrassment from that night, Styles can strike big with a win tonight.

By far the favorite to win the battle royal, Styles is probably going to achieve victory here tonight. Another clash with the Prizefighter promises to excite, as both athletes are highly talented and capable of producing memorable encounters. It’s too early to tell for sure whether or not a title reign is a destined outcome for the Phenomenal One, but it very well could happen. The current field of the match is unknown at the moment, so Styles could have a rather easy night ahead of him.

Assuming that other top stars are in the contest, I can see the final two in this match being Styles and Baron Corbin. Owens could try and interfere to eliminate his rival, but in doing so might distract the Lone Wolf. This would present an ideal way for Corbin to lose while also giving the Phenomenal One a shot at the gold.