8 Ups & 11 Downs For WWE In 2018 (So Far)

6. Delayed Onset Feuding

Bayley Swearing
WWE

WWE finally pulled the trigger on Sasha Banks vs. Bayley the other week, but it may already be too late.

The company have spent 2018 heating the rivalry up one week only to pour cold water on it the next, repeating the cycle every month or so, pulling more and more fans away each time. Banks' Elimination Chamber betrayal was electric. It should've kickstarted a white-hot WrestleMania build, with the duo's undeniable chemistry carrying through the summer, but WWE pulled it away, and now, we're getting a neutered version of what should've been an all-timer.

Bayley's turn was a pleasant surprise, but WWE look set to kill all remaining intrigue with goofy counselling segments. The first week was a shambles, and the company's shoddy track record means they don't deserve our trust to turn it around, so why give it to them?

This should've been the easiest thing in the world to book. Sasha and Bayley's incredible NXT rivalry was one of the best stories WWE have told this decade, and a huge reason behind the Women's Revolution's surge. A similar blueprint would've worked on the main roster, but sitting on their hands, frequently shelving the heat, and going down the Dr. Shelby route have killed it.

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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.