3. CM Punk
For a while now, I have thought about the future of CM Punk in great detail, whilst reflecting on a year in which he has gone from WWE Champion of 434 days, to the forerunner of some impressive feuds. The win-to-loss ratio isn't a problem as far as Punk is concerned. He sells tickets, plain and simple, and he excites audiences no matter the circumstances. His recent battles with former mentor Paul Heyman and the "Heyman Guys" has been great storytelling, and produced the classic encounter with Brock Lesnar at SummerSlam. Following his defeat (yes, defeat) to Paul Heyman at Night of Champions, CM Punk finds himself in yet another battle with a Heyman Guy, in the form of Ryback. Punk and Ryback have locked horns before. Just a little under a year ago, they faced off in a Hell in a Cell match, which was as impressive as much as it was unimpressive. However, it feels as though the WWE are dragging this on longer than it is necessary. There is only so much the WWE can do in the form of storytelling, and while the intensity of this rivalry still exists, what else can the creative team do to make it worthwhile? I love Paul Heyman, and as an authority figure, he is ingenious, but Punk needs redemption, and if Heyman keeps gaining the upper hand, you get the impression that this will never end. One could argue that a Hell in a Cell rematch could prove to be the final chapter in the story, or maybe it'll carry on further and we will see a final showdown at Survivor Series. Rumour has it that there will be a match booked for Battleground a week on Sunday, but ultimately, Punk needs a shift in direction to keep things fresh.
Prediction: I believe that Punk is an ideal candidate to be the next major superstar subject to Triple H's tyranny. His persona alone meets the criteria; straight edge and bending the rules of what's acceptable. It seems strange that Punk is so far away from the WWE title picture, and while I understand that he held it for as long as he did and that is ultimately why he has been distanced from it, he is one of a select group of former champions who is worthy of holding it at any time. Perhaps that may play a part in the storyline? Punk comes out, demands his opportunity, and Triple H brings the heat. Nothing would get me excited for a PPV more than a battle between one of my all time favourites in Triple H and CM Punk at some stage. It's got WrestleMania written all over it!