WWE Royal Rumble 2018 Results Predictions
The sun always rises in Philadelphia?
They say you only turn 30 once. It's a particularly asinine expression, because besides those born on leap days who revel in quadrennial age duplication, it's true of every birthday. Nevertheless, it's a thing, so to celebrate the Rumble's 30th, WWE has decided to innovate the concept a little this year.
Unfortunately, they've eschewed my favoured suggestion of a Royal Ramble - in which 30 superstars hike their way across a National Park - for something less outdoorsy but arguably more sensible. However, the choice of a women's Royal Rumble is more than welcome - not to mention long overdue.
The historic match - its significance we can look forward to being repeatedly reminded about by a crowing Stephanie - is arguably just as appetising as its male counterpart, with both Rumbles gratefully veiled in a cloak of doubt as to their outcome.
Fair enough, few expected Randy Orton to win last year, but that was unequivocally wank. This year - bar another ill-advised Roman Reigns accolade - has a whole host of potential, palatable prizepeople. It's not easy to predict, so really it's all a bit of a Royal fumble in the dark.
Oh, and it's not The Undertaker. Everything can't be The Undertaker.
9. TBD Put In His Place
Bobby Roode looks absolutely happy as Gary standing there on his bill, with his newly-gotten star-spangled strap draped over his shoulder. As life-affirming as that glorious grin is, our Bob ought to wipe it from his face for two reasons:
1) It presumably precludes him from the Royal Rumble, and a potential WrestleMania WWE Title shot.
2) It's bumped him to the pre-show, where he doesn't even have a confirmed opponent.
The acronym 'TBD' is prone to disturb excitement amongst fans expecting some great surprise, but the key word here is 'pre-show'. It'd be fantastic for WWE to spring a massive re-debut for Bobby Lashley or, I don't know, a patriotic homecoming for Hulk Hogan, but it ain't gonna happen before an empty arena. It'll be Jinder Mahal or someone equally insipid, and a simple victory for Roode.
Prediction: Bobby Roode is prepared for all-comers, especially SmackDown mid-carders.