10 Ways WWE Can Break Out Of Their Summer Slump
9. Stay Focused On The Midcard Titles
Moving Kevin Owens to SmackDown as part of the Superstar Shake-Up was a smart move. The Canadian has shone in his role as ‘The New Face Of America,’ and with the AJ Styles feud just heating up, KO looks set to deliver some of WWE’s most enjoyable content over the summer months, perhaps even elevating the United States Championship to a level above the flatlined WWE Title.
The Intercontinental Championship is less impressive shape, but putting the belt back around The Miz’s waist is a strong first step in its rehabilitation process. Miz was tremendous as SmackDown’s IC Champ last year, and if he returns to that level, Raw’s midcard scene may finally evolve beyond the wasteland it has become in recent months.
Maintenance is the key here. While the SD writers’ great work with Miz last year suggests that the US Title will be fine, the same can’t be said for the IC, which has only been defended twice since it came to Raw. The current champion just happens to be the most effective heel in wrestling today, and if WWE can’t take advantage of that, they’re missing out on a huge opportunity to restore pedigree to an ailing belt, and make Raw’s three-hour runtime feel a tad more bearable.