2. Watching Young Talent Develop in the Royal Rumble Match Is Awesome
The Royal Rumble isn't just about the front-runners; it's also an incredible opportunity to see who's getting a push up to the Main Event spotlight. Three up-and-coming performers in particular has begun to distance themselves from their peers. With a win over CM Punk and several other accolades to his credit, Roman Reigns is going over at an unprecedented rate. In stunning form, Reigns has positioned himself to become the next real monster in the WWE. While the Shield has run rampant for over a year, Reigns has clearly outstripped the rest of his cohort, and should be competing in Main Events sooner rather than later. Similar praise should be given to Big E Langston, who has used the past six months to evolve into one of the most engrossing young performers in recent memory and a real presence as the Intercontinental Champion. Big E performs freak athletic feats every time he gets in the ring. His agility and finely-honed strength feel like they shouldn't be possible, and his charisma glues your eyes to him at all times. He drops the strap, and he has your full attention. Big E's primed for something bigger than the Intercontinental Title, and the Rumble figures to be a great chance to prove it. Though he's been around for many years, Cody Rhodes has jumped a level since Money In the Bank in July. His renewed enthusiasm in the ring, compelling assortment of moves, and his involvement in two of the most fun storylines of the last several months (the Rhodes Family Reunion and his spat with Sandow) has put Cody in a position in which he might be considered for a title shot in the next few months. The prospect of him having a solid run during the Rumble is certainly present. Whatever the result this Sunday, these three superstars will be a critical factor in how the match will progress.