WWE SmackDown 5 predictions: The real mystery revealed

4. Kevin Owens Defeats Elias

After being recognized by Vince McMahon as the “greatest acquisition in SmackDown Live history,” the current 24/7 champion Elias has been working for Vince McMahon’s son, Shane McMahon.

Meanwhile, Kevin Owens has been rebelling against Shane McMahon since he turned into a dissident babyface.

Because of their association with Shane McMahon, these two superstars have had a lot of stirred beef in the past two months. In fact, there was a recent altercation between them last week on SmackDown Live when Elias, who was the special guest referee, cost Owens his match against Samoa Joe.

Henceforth, it is very fitting for them to battle in the first round of the King of the Ring Tournament. While Elias is the 24/7 champion and doesn’t have much to lose in this bout, Kevin Owens just defeated the “best in the world” Shane McMahon at SummerSlam, and needs to continue his momentum with his new rebellious gimmick.

Consequently, Owens should be the safe pick to pick up the win and advance to the next round of the King of the Ring Tournament.

3. Andrade Defeats Apollo Crews

Andrade and Apollo Crews have had a series of matches on SmackDown Live. Their on-and-off feud began when Andrade was making a statement to the former Intercontinental Champion Finn Balor by relentlessly attacking Crews on an episode of SmackDown Live two months ago.

Henceforth, it is also very fitting for them to battle in the first round of the King of the Ring Tournament. While Crews’ momentum has been oscillatory lately, Andrade had earned two big wins over the legendary Rey Mysterio in the past two weeks and needs to redeem himself from losing to Crews last month.

Consequently, Andrade should be the safe pick to advance to the next round of the King of the Ring Tournament.