4 Predictions for WWE SmackDown Live: July 25, 2017
By Grant Mannis
The Phenomenal One vs The Prizefighter
Similar to their last pay-per-view contest, the conclusion of AJ Styles and Kevin Owens at Battleground ended in controversy. With the United States Championship on the line, Owens and Styles competed in a highly competitive match. Unwilling to leave the Wells Fargo Center on the losing end, both superstars withstood a great deal of punishment. As the match came to a close though, it seemed Styles was sent to win the contest. Locking Owens in a crossface, the Phenomenal One had the Prizefighter on the edge of defeat.
In a surprise twist, Owens managed to gain enough leverage while in the hold to go for a pin. Just a few moments later, the Prizefighter won his third United States Championship. As Owens left with the coveted title, a disappointed Styles covered his head in shame. Despite his best efforts, the Face of America had once again reigned supreme.
Given the controversial ending to the match, it’s safe to assume that these two will compete once more. However, the contest probably won’t occur until SummerSlam, a fitting venue for what should be a feud-ending match. Until then, WWE needs to find a way to maintain interest fans have in this rivalry. Tonight’s episode of SmackDown Live offers a great way to do so, if the company can take advantage of the opportunity.
At the start of the show, AJ Styles should march right down to the squared circle. Let him declare that he had the match won until Owens pulled out a miracle. The Phenomenal One is going to want a rematch, which will of course bring out the Prizefighter. Owens will reject the challenge, but by the end of the night it’ll be made official anyway.