As we eagerly anticipate SummerSlam, the WWE Universe is already buzzing with speculation about the upcoming Road to WrestleMania 43. In this article, I'll delve into some early predictions for the match card, offering my insights and analysis on the potential showdowns that could define this historic event.
The Main Event: Roman Reigns vs. Oba Femi
One of the most anticipated matches is undoubtedly the clash between Roman Reigns and Oba Femi. Reigns, the current World Heavyweight Champion, has been the focal point of WWE for some time now. However, his reign is set to come to an end at WrestleMania 43, making way for the 'next big thing' - Oba Femi.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the long-term booking strategy employed by WWE. Triple H and the creative team have often relied on familiar formulas, and Reigns has thrived in the top spot. In my opinion, removing him prematurely would be a mistake until a worthy successor emerges. Femi, with his impressive track record, including victories over Brock Lesnar and the Royal Rumble win, is poised to step into that role.
CM Punk's Legacy Match: CM Punk vs. Gunther
The battle between CM Punk and Gunther is a matchup that could headline WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia. With rumors swirling about Punk's absence from WWE programming, it raises questions about his future in wrestling. If Punk decides to retire, there's no bigger stage than WrestleMania to make his final bow.
Gunther, the absolute menace on the main roster, has forced some of the biggest names in wrestling history into retirement. Adding CM Punk to that list would be a monumental achievement. At 48 years old, Punk has endured a career plagued by injuries, and it's time for him to go out on his terms, cementing his legacy. By using his retirement tour to elevate a younger star like Gunther, Punk would be giving back to the wrestling business in a significant way.
Women's World Championship: Liv Morgan vs. Becky Lynch
When it comes to the women's division, a potential showdown between Becky Lynch and Liv Morgan for the Women's World Championship is highly anticipated. If these two face off in Saudi Arabia, it will be a year since Morgan's victory over Stephanie Vaquer at WrestleMania 42. The WWE Universe's reaction to long title reigns is well-documented, and with Morgan already receiving mixed responses, she is likely to evolve into a full-blown heel by next April.
The history between Lynch and Morgan, dating back to 2021 and continuing through their battles in 2024, leaves plenty of room for another chapter in their rivalry. Lynch, who has played a supportive role to many Superstars in recent years, needs to be reestablished as a cornerstone of the women's division as WWE moves into 2027. A victory against Morgan at WrestleMania 43 would ensure her status as a top dog in the division.
As we look ahead to WrestleMania 43, these early match card predictions offer a glimpse into the potential storylines and showdowns that could define this iconic event. Personally, I think these matches, with their intriguing dynamics and implications, will deliver unforgettable moments for the WWE Universe.
