Payback 2015 Picks

By Kevin Hunsperger
@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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We're days away from another WWE pay-per-view/Network event.  I'm not exactly sure the proper phrase anymore, but as we know Payback returns this weekend.  The show has had some good build up, and even with several rematches, I'm looking forward to some great performances.

 The kickoff features the newly formed duo of Macho Mandow and Axelmania against The Ascension.  I have no idea where WWE is going with Damien Sandow and Curtis Axel, but I'm enjoying the homage to Randy Savage and Hulk Hogan.  Plus it's another tag team to get behind in a somewhat weakened division.  The Mega Powers 2.0 will win this one and eventually implode like they did more than 25 years ago.

Bray Wyatt will step into the ring with Ryback.  I'm looking forward to this match.  I feel like both men are still growing and headed to superstardom.  Ryback has been hot and cold since being repackaged a few years ago.  I've always liked Wyatt, even as Husky Harris.  He's got something special and I think it's important for him to shine Sunday night against Ryback.  

Dolph Ziggler and Sheamus will have a rematch.  I really have enjoyed Sheamus much more as the heelish bully since returning from his injury earlier this year.  I was surprised Sheamus lost the Kiss Me Arse match at Extreme Rules.  I can't see him going down in defeat two events in a row, so I pick him to win this time, setting up for a rubber match at the next show.  I don't mind repeat matches when they involve guys giving it their all.

Neville takes on King Barrett in a rematch from the King of the Ring finals and the kickoff from Extreme Rules.  Each man has a victory.  The company seems to be fast tracking Neville to big things (perhaps an Intercontental title run) so for that reason and because I'm a huge Neville mark, I hope he wins.  I won't be disappointed though if the King reigns.

The New Day will defend the tag team titles against former champs Tyson Kidd and Cesaro.  I like both teams.  I think Kidd and Cesaro's reign came to an end way too soon.  They're my favorite current team and I feel like WWE needs to stay behind them.  Again, I'm not going to be disappointed with whoever wins, but I believe the champs will retain.

Rusev will try to win the U.S. title back in an "I Quit" match against John Cena.  Both men have their submission finishers.  I think Cena will win, Rusev and Lana will split and hopefully he won't end up in no man's land as a result.  I like the concept of the U.S. Title Open Challenge Cena has been doing.  There's still some mileage to get out of that angle.  I can't wait to see who is eventually put into that role of winning the challenge.  

For my thoughts on the 4 Way, check out this week's 3 Count over on YouTube.