10 Predictions For WWE's Direction After SummerSlam 2016
2. The Inter-Brand Rivalry Heats Up
Tensions are already running high between Raw and SmackDown. Lesnar and Orton have set a cat among the pigeons with their intrusions, and neither set of authority figures are happy about it. While it’s unlikely that either wrestler will face significant on-air punishment, there’s even less chance of Foley, Bryan, or either McMahon accepting the blame, and that’s only going to ramp up the inter-brand competitiveness.
A big Raw vs. SmackDown rivalry was always on the cards, and it’s finally taking shape. While it likely won’t materialise as a direct on-air feud, the two shows will be duking it out on a weekly basis to constantly try and outdo the other, particularly in the wake of the Lesnar/Orton incidents. Raw and SmackDown didn’t need another reason to do all they can to outclass the other, but they both got one, and the conflict looks set to hit full flight.
Theoretically, this should be great for WWE fans. Both shows should be going all-out to provide the best possible show in order to pull viewers away from their opposite number, and leave the competition in the dirt. As the last combined roster show for the next few months, SummerSlam is the perfect jump-off point, and we can expect Stephanie and Shane McMahon to make a far bigger deal of outdoing the other, possibly culminating in a big 5 on 5 match at Survivor Series.