10 Big Mistakes WWE Can't Afford To Make At TLC 2016

5. The End Of Becky Lynch's Reign

AJ Styles TLC
WWE.com

Though the SmackDown Women’s Championship has only been around since September 11th, Becky Lynch has been champion for the entirety of its lifespan. She pinned Carmella to win the belt at Backlash, and has been embroiled in a bitter rival with the division’s enfant terrible, Alexa Bliss, ever since.

They faced in a long-awaited one-on-one match in Glasgow a few weeks ago, but the match ended in controversy. Alexa was locked into Becky’s Dis-Arm-Her finisher, but her foot was on the bottom rope. This didn’t stop the referee calling for a submission finish, however, and thus, we’re on the eve of a rematch.

The SmackDown Women’s Title has provided a nice balance to the chaotic Raw division, where Sasha Banks and Charlotte trade title reigns every other week. Raw’s hot-shot approach has actually worked wonders to make their belt feel more important than ever, but SD’s approach helps build brand differentiation. Becky has been champion for close to three months, and if she beats Alexa this weekend, she’ll surely pass that mark.

As promising as Bliss is, and as strong as the rivalry has been, this isn’t the right time for a switch. While Charlotte and Sasha pass Raw’s belt back and forth, Becky should be allowed to make SD’s her own. As SmackDown’s standout female, Becky is the perfect foundation to build the division around, and at the age of 25, Alexa will have plenty more title opportunities in her future.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.