5 Biggest Winners & Losers From WWE Hell In A Cell 2016

5. Winner: Brian Kendrick

Brian Kendrick
WWE.com

A despondent, desperate Brian Kendrick spent last week pleading for TJ Perkins to “let him win” at Hell In A Cell, but it wasn’t necessary in the end. Kendrick prevailed through taking advantage of Perkins’ stupidity, and after pushing himself into a “need to win” scenario, the crafty veteran captured WWE gold for the first time in nine years.

The finish begs the question of why WWE chose to go down the “let me win” road in the first place. If Kendrick had the intelligence to spring such a trap then there was simply no need to present him as such a pathetic weakling, but it’s in the books now. He has a dethroned the face of the division, and as Cruiserweight Champion, Kendrick will no doubt continue his career’s Indian Summer with grit, grime, and guile.

It’ll be interesting to see who emerges as his first challenger. Chances are high that WWE will pull the trigger on a Perkins rematch, but there are a couple of other stars waiting in the wings. Rich Swann and Cedric Alexander have shone lately, as has Tony Nese. Either one would make a fine first defence for Kendrick, who might not be the flashiest wrestler in the world, but knows how to get it done between the ropes.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. 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.