SURVIVOR SERIES: Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes

Shane joins the team
Courtesy: WWE

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter
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I'm going to boldly claim someone at WWE read by blog Monday questioning why "The Lone Wolf" Baron Corbin was a part of the SmackDown Live Survivor Series team. A day later Corbin was "injured" at the hands of Kalisto and removed from the team, leaving a vacancy and not many choices on who to fill it with. Finally, by the end of SmackDown Live we learned Commissioner Shane McMahon is filling the opening. (By the way, I'm kidding about WWE reading this blog.)

Shane vs. Undertaker
Courtesy: WWE

I can see arguments for why this is and is not "what's best for business." Let's start with the positive. Shane McMahon made a comeback in WWE in the weeks leading up to WrestleMania 32. The reception he received in his buildup against the Undertaker was nothing short of impressive. The pop he got at AT&T Stadium and the next night on Raw was amazing too. Despite being away for years and not ever being an official WWE Superstar, his performance in Hell in a Cell was also stellar. So I have no doubt he'll be able to keep up with the nine other men in this elimination match.

No James Ellsworth
Courtesy: WWE

Storyline wise it makes sense to include him. He has a vested interest in SmackDown winning this match. It's the ultimate bout of sibling rivalry. I had thought about James Ellsworth being inserted into the match. But they're still playing up the fact that he's not a Superstar (yet). Keeping the Miz out furthers the heat between he and Daniel Bryan. Dolph Ziggler is already defending the Intercontinental Championship. Luke Harper would have involved too many Wyatts in the match. 

Kane vs. Luke Harper
Courtesy: WWE

Involving Kane would have made sense. He's had a rebirth of sorts too and with his feud with Randy Orton and Bray Wyatt they could have played off that heat just like they're doing with the members of the Raw team. And with the Undertaker appearing on the 900th episode of SmackDown Live just days before Survivor Series, he could have easily been named that fifth man, especially since that's the event where he debuted in 1990. 

But the bottom line is I don't hate the idea of Shane McMahon being in this match. However, I will draw the line if Team Raw replaces anyone with Stephanie. The matchup should be super competitive and feature some great action. I'm still holding out for a Raw vs Raw and SDL vs SDL team dynamic for some of my favorites who won't be on the show.

Stay tuned, starting Friday, Nov. 11 Chad and I will countdown with some favorite moments, memories and observations as we gear up for the 30th annual Survivor Series!