4 Predictions for WWE SmackDown Live: July 25, 2017

The Queen of Harts Prepares For SummerSlam

Going into Battleground, there was a lot of doubt over who would emerge victorious in the female fatal-five-way elimination match. All of the women involved could have carried the burden of being number one contender, and yet leading up to the event no one seemed to rise above the rest.

When the time came for the contest itself, a series of rapid eliminations helped to sustain the aura of unpredictability. The final two athletes ended up being Charlotte Flair and Natalya, arguably two of the most athletic superstars in the division. They went back and forth for a time, but ultimately it was Natalya who picked up the win. She might not have been the most likely choice for success, however, it’s about time that she received ample opportunities for the effort she’s put in.

Come SummerSlam, Natalya will compete against Naomi for the coveted SmackDown Live Women’s Championship. Naomi has held the gold since WrestleMania 33, and yet she shows no signs of slowing down. Her recent conquests over Lana prove she deserves to be called champion, as very few superstars lack the skills necessary to beat her in the ring. Natalya hopes to have that skillset, with the next few weeks dictating to fans whether or not that’s the case.

On Tuesday, expect Natalya and Naomi to interact in some form. I think a tag team match is the way to go, as it can allow the Queen of Harts to score a big pinfall over the champion. It wouldn’t carry the impact of a singles win, but it’ll give Natalya something to brag about heading into SummerSlam.