WWE "Insiders" make their WM Predictions

[RavishingRickRudo 0]

http://www.wrestlemania.com/predictions/index.html

 

Brian Solomon:

 

Well, it’s that time of year again. WrestleMania is upon us. And it’s not just any WrestleMania this year, either. It’s the 20th annual edition, a cause for rejoicing throughout the sports-entertainment world. When the curtain raises on March 14 at Madison Square Garden, you can bet that the Superstars of RAW and SmackDown! will be ready to go. Not only are they looking to win, just like any other night of the year, but on this night more than any other, they are looking to make an impression. Who will make the biggest impressions at this year’s spectacular? Who will step up to the plate and deliver? And most importantly of all, who will win? Here’s how I see things going down…

 

Women’s Championship

Victoria vs. Molly

Not since Roddy Piper vs. Adrian Adonis 17 years ago has a Superstar put their hair on the line in a WrestleMania match. Molly Holly has agreed to go with the Stone Cold look if she can’t win the Women’s title, and for that reason you have to believe she’s willing to do anything to win. I give her the edge over Victoria in technical skill, and you can bet she’ll be putting all her scientific prowess to use to insure that she leaves New York with the championship, and with her hair. Winner: Molly

 

Open Cruiserweight Elimination

In all of WrestleMania history, there has never been a match of this nature. Ten of WWE’s most unpredictable and explosive competitors all the ring at the same time. The key to winning this one is going to be staying power. Since it’s an elimination type match, the winner will be required to outlast all the opposition. I’m going with Ultimo Dragon on this one, since he’s a rare cruiserweight in that he is just as adept at taking to the mat as he is at taking to the air. He’s the most experienced competitor in the bunch, and this is his chance to really remind everyone that he’s one of the best wrestlers in the world, period. Winner: Ultimo Dragon

 

World Tag Team Championship

Rob Van Dam & Booker T vs. Dudley Boyz vs.

Garrison Cade & Mark Jindrak vs. La Resistance

The World Tag Team title hasn’t changed hands at WrestleMania in three years, but I think this year will end that streak. The Dudley Boyz have been in three previous World Tag Team Championship matches at WrestleMania, and never been victorious. Yet they are recognized as one of the finest duos in WWE history, and rightfully so. Expect this year’s event to feature the one thing the Dudleys haven’t accomplished yet: a WrestleMania victory. They have the experience, they have the teamwork, and they have the heart. Winner: Dudley Boyz

 

WWE Tag Team Championship

Rikishi & Scotty 2 Hotty vs. APA vs. World’s Greatest

Tag Team vs. Basham Brothers

In years past, I might have gone with the APA on this one, but after their loss to Charlie Haas & Shelton Benjamin last month at No Way Out, I’m not so sure anymore. Haas & Benjamin are truly elite athletes. They are pure wrestlers who have shown that they have the know-how to adapt their amateur skills in the professional game. Rikishi & Scotty haven’t been back together long, and may be thrown off their game in this chaotic four-way environment. Haas & Benjamin will keep their cool, rely on their impeccable grounding in grappling fundamentals, and emerge with the WWE Tag Team title once again. Winner: World’s Greatest Tag Team

 

Chris Jericho vs. Christian

In her role as WWE’s version of Helen of Troy, Trish Stratus has ignited a war between two former friends. The question is: Who wants her more? Actually, if desire were the sole factor involved here, the match would probably end in a draw, since both men would certainly do anything for her. But it won’t only be decided by that. Skill also plays a factor, and though Christian has been very impressive since going singles, the fact remains that Jericho has a lot more experience in one-on-one competition in WWE. He’s also got a mental game that’s second to none, which has only been enhanced now that he has the fans on his side. Winner: Chris Jericho

 

U.S. Championship

Big Show vs. John Cena

In any match involving the Big Show, it’s hard not to pick him as the favorite. His size and strength are nearly impossible obstacles to get by, and John Cena will certainly have his work cut out for him. Nevertheless, Cena possesses that intangible “something” that makes it difficult to count him out. He appears to have the Big Show figured out psychologically, and is quick enough to be able to stick and move. He’s also got a determination and fire that will simply not allow him to come up short in his first WrestleMania match. He’s never won a major title of any kind in his career, but that will change in Madison Square Garden. Winner: John Cena

 

Rock ‘N’ Sock Connection vs. Evolution

Handicap matches are very tough to predict. You would think that the team with the handicap advantage would always be the favorite, yet history shows that the team that comes in at a disadvantage usually wins out. Perhaps it’s the determination that’s generated by having your back against the wall. In this case, however, I have to go against precedent and give it to Evolution. They’re a well-oiled machine, while Rock and Foley haven’t been together in years. Flair is the cagey veteran, backed up by the youthful athleticism of Randy Orton and the raw power of Batista. Winner: Flair, Orton & Batista

 

WWE Championship

Eddie Guerrero vs. Kurt Angle

Last year, Kurt Angle lost the WWE Championship at WrestleMania. This year, he’s looking to win it. And I think he will succeed. His technical prowess is unmatched in all of WWE, even with his history of injuries. Angle on his worst day is better than many Superstars on their best. Guerrero is no slouch in the technical department, and also possesses an aerial mastery somewhat lacking in Angle’s style. But he’ll be just plain outmatched here, and the flawless ringwork of the former Olympian will win the day. Prediction: Kurt Angle

 

World Heavyweight Championship

Triple H vs. Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Benoit

Very few champions have ever successfully defended a World title at WrestleMania, but Triple H is one of them. Not only is he one of them, but he’s one of only two men—the other being Hulk Hogan—to successfully defend a World title at two WrestleManias. This year, I predict he’ll do what no man has ever done before, and make it three. Benoit is hungry and has all the tools, but he and Michaels will likely cancel each other out. Remember, Triple H doesn’t have to beat either of them; they have to beat him. And I think they’ll both be so distracted by each other that neither of them will. Winner: Triple H

 

Playboy Evening Gown Match

Torrie Wilson & Sable vs. Stacey Keibler & Miss Jackie

Unlike most previous evening gown matches, this one will be won by pinfall or submission like a regular match. That gives the decided advantage to the Torrie/Sable team, primarily because of the presence of Sable. Some may not remember, but Sable is actually a former Women’s Champion, and has proven in the past that she can more than take care of herself in the ring. She’s had far more ring experience in WWE than any of the other competitors involved, and will surely help her team score the win. Winner: Torrie Wilson & Sable

 

Goldberg vs. Brock Lesnar, special ref Stone Cold Steve Austin

Ever since Goldberg entered WWE a year ago, Brock Lesnar has been the opponent I’ve most wanted to see him matched up with. This one is power vs. power, the irresistible force meeting the immovable object, as Gorilla Monsoon used to say. This is the one match Goldberg has been waiting for all this time. On the grandest stage of all, he’ll be taking on a man many look at as a younger version of himself. In the past, he’s proven that no one can stop him when he’s focused, and he’s focused. I think we’re going to see the Goldberg of old here, steamrolling over Brock in a way that will shock and amaze. Winner: Goldberg

[RavishingRickRudo 0]

Aaron Williams:

 

World Heavyweight Championship

Triple H vs. Chris Benoit vs. Shawn Michaels

If there is one surefire lock at WrestleMania XX, it has to be Triple H in this World Heavyweight Championship match. I believe that The Game wanted this match all along and only feigned disgust when Shawn Michaels was added to the mix. He’s called the Cerebral Assassin for a reason. He’ll let Benoit and Michaels beat the hell out of each other, and then when the opportunity presents itself, he’ll grab one of his weary opponents and Pedigree him onto Easy Street. Once again The Game will prove that he is that damn good. Winner: Triple H

 

 

WWE Championship

Eddie Guerrero vs. Kurt Angle

Eddie Guerrero will definitely be the sentimental favorite and have the crowd on his side, but unfortunately for him, he’s going up against the most determined athlete in the world today. Angle is coming to Madison Square Garden with one thing on his mind: redemption. At last year’s WrestleMania he came up a bit short against Brock Lesnar, and you can be sure that he won’t come up on the short end of the stick 2 years in a row. It’s too bad that Eddie’s reign as WWE Champion will only last a month or so, but the reality is, Kurt Angle’s determination will prove too much for Latino Heat. Winner: Kurt Angle

 

 

Goldberg vs. Brock Lesnar, special ref Stone Cold Steve Austin

It’s tough to pick against Brock Lesnar, but if you look at the facts, Goldberg has a decided advantage. He’s thrown Lesnar off his game, and I don’t think the former NCAA Champion will be properly focused for this one. Lesnar’s rage will be his ultimate downfall. Look for Goldberg to employ a rope-a-dope strategy, tire Lesnar out, and bring home the W with a Jack Hammer about 20 minutes in. Winner: Goldberg

 

 

 

Undertaker vs. Kane

All good things must come to an end, and this year it’s going to be Undertaker’s undefeated streak at WrestleMania. Just about every time they fought in the past, Undertaker came out on top, but 2004 is the year it’s going to change. Kane’s seen all of Undertaker’s mental games before and he won’t make any stupid mistakes. Then, it will come down to a purely physical battle, and in that arena Kane cannot be stopped. Winner: Kane

 

 

 

Rock 'N' Sock Connection vs. Evolution

For years, millions of sports-entertainment fans used to yell “Be fair to Flair.” Well, on paper this match seems anything but fair, and it doesn’t pertain to the 16-time World Champion. Logic dictates that that the Dirtiest Player in the Game, Orton and Batista have so many advantages that you might as well ask The Rock and Foley to defeat the 81st Airborne. Even if The Great One and Foley were in their prime it would be a long shot for them to defeat these three great gladiators. So why pick The Rock and Sock Connection? Because when these two get together you have to throw logic and everything you have learned out the window. Mark my words, they’ll win. Why? How? Who knows, but they will. The Winners: Mick Foley and The Rock

 

 

 

U.S. Championship

Big Show vs. John Cena

Cena will out talk the giant, but when push comes to shove, Big Show will walk out the winner. He’s just too big, even for a great athlete like Cena. Show has trained harder for this match than any other in the past few years and will be able to go the distance with the Doctor of Thuganomics. In the end, Cena can stick and move, but he won’t be able to hide. Big Show will see him and finish him off with a vicious chokeslam. Winner: Big Show

 

 

 

 

Christian vs. Chris Jericho

Sometimes the good guy does win. Jericho’s been in the WrestleMania spotlight before and this will prove to be the ultimate advantage in this battle of former friends. Forget about what happened with Trish, forget about petty jealousies. Once the bell rings this will be about wrestling in the big time. I wouldn’t be surprised if Christian panics a bit allowing Jericho’s cool, calm, collected nature to take control. Look for a methodical victory for the King of Bling-Bling. Winner: Chris Jericho

 

 

 

Playboy Evening Gown Match

Torrie Wilson and Sable vs. Miss Jackie and Stacy Keibler

This is an easy pick. Miss Jackie and Stacy Keibler are so upset at not having been picked for Playboy that I expect them to take their evening gowns off themselves. They want to show the world that they have the goods to be in Playboy. This should be the shortest match of the night. Winners: Torrie Wilson and Sable

 

 

Women's Championship

Victoria vs. Molly

If Molly loses, she gets her head shaved. Talk about pressure. There’s no way she is gong to let this happen. I don’t know how this match is going to play out, but I do know that Molly will pull out every dirty trick in the book to keep her brunette locks. If there were no stipulation for this match I might pick differently, but with her hair on the line, I’m putting my money on Molly. Winner: Molly

 

 

 

WWE Tag Team Championship

Rikishi and Scotty vs. APA vs. The World’s

Greatest Tag Team vs. The Bashams

This might well turn out to be the most intriguing match on the card. An argument can be made for all for teams to leave as champions but I’m picking the APA for 2 reasons. The first is that this just might turn into a barroom brawl, and the other is that a confidant of Ron Simmons and Bradshaw had promised to pay for all the beer they can drink if they win. With all that beer and money on the line, the APA are tough to bet against. Winners: APA

 

 

 

 

World Tag Team Championship

Booker T and RVD vs. Dudley Boyz vs. Mark

Jindrak and Garrison Cade vs. La Resistance

In the first real upset of the night, youth will be served and Jindrak and Cade will win their first championship. They are peaking at the right time, and I think the other teams are looking past them. They are also the only team in this match that hasn’t won gold, so they should be a little hungrier than the others. If you are looking for a secure bet at a good price, this is the match to take. Jindrak and Cade should win rather easily. Winners: Mark Jindrak and Garrison Cade

 

 

 

Open Cruiserweight Elimination

Let’s be honest here. This is a ten man match and anything could happen. All ten of these guys are more than capable of winning, but who knows what is going to happen. The one thing that Akio has going for him that the others do not is that he has been in many of these types of matches before. Does this mean anything? Perhaps, but it’s the only thing that separates any of the competitors in this kind of match-up. If Akio doesn’t win, look for Shannon Moore to give the fans one of the most memorable moments of the night. Winner: Akio

[RavishingRickRudo 0]

Keith Elliot Greenberg:

 

World Heavyweight Championship

Triple H vs. Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Benoit

Will Chris Benoit finally be able to win the big one? Not with Shawn Michaels in the ring to cancel each advance made by the Rabid Wolverine. Sorry, but the Cerebral Assassin earned his nickname for a reason. Michaels and Benoit will have a classic, but, when they’ve worn each other out…Game Over! Winner: Triple H

 

WWE Championship

Eddie Guerrero vs. Kurt Angle

Eddie Guerrero’s recent title win over Brock Lesnar is the culmination of a lifetime of yearning. Angle is great, and will hold the championship again at some point. But there’s too much fire in Guerrero to quench his Latino Heat at WrestleMania. Winner: Guerrero

 

Goldberg vs. Brock Lesnar, special ref Stone Cold Steve Austin

Special referee Stone Cold Steve Austin may be as much of a factor in this clash as the combatants. Although Goldberg and Austin are friends, Goldberg recently antagonized the Texas Rattlesnake by accidentally spearing him. Austin’s a man who holds grudges, and Goldberg will have more to worry about than his mighty opponent. Winner: Lesnar

 

Undertaker vs. Kane

After the Survivor Series, Kane believed that he’d buried his brother’s legacy forever. Now, the Undertaker has resurfaced to unleash the forces of darkness on his wayward sibling. Still, Kane is certifiably insane, and more than capable of returning the Undertaker to the soil from which he’s risen. Winner: Kane

 

Playboy Evening Gown Match

Stacy & Miss Jackie vs. Sable & Torrie

When Torrie and Sable were offered a double-spread in Playboy, Stacy and Miss Jackie were fuming with jealousy. In fact, they’re so anxious to prove that they’re the sexier pair that they may allow themselves to be stripped down on purpose. Winner: Torrie & Sable

 

Rock 'N' Sock Connection vs. Evolution

Whether it was Starrcade ’83 or Starrcade ’93 or the 1992 Royal Rumble, Ric Flair built his legend on winning the critical match. And at WrestleMania XX, he’s paired with two of the future’s brightest names, Batista and Randy Orton. Plus, the skirmish is a three-on-two handicap. The Rock and Mick Foley are sentimental favorites, but their competition is just too steep. Winner: Evolution

 

U.S. Championship

John Cena vs. Big Show

Cena is one of the most confident Superstars in WWE, and has spent much of the last year embarrassing his gigantic rival in rings from Boston to Baghdad. The Big Show is furious, and has been waiting for his chance to humiliate Cena. Cena is the better rapper but, at WrestleMania XX, he’ll fall to an angry giant. Winner: The Big Show

 

Chris Jericho vs. Christian

Christian’s behavior during the last several months betrays his inherent insecurity. Another man would have supported his friend in his romantic and professional pursuits, instead of inventing threats where none existed. Now, Christian has reason to be worried. Jericho wants revenge, and Trish – a talented performer herself – will likely assist him. Winner: Jericho

 

WWE Tag Team Championship

Basham Bros. vs. Self-Proclaimed World's Greatest

Tag Team vs. APA vs. Scotty 2 Hotty & Rikishi

Like Eddie Guerrero, Scotty and Rikishi waited a long time to get their chance at glory. Now that they’ve seized it, they will not give it up. The Bashams, APA and World’s Greatest Tag Team are all capable of winning this contest. But Scotty and Rikishi will find a way to get their foes to neutralize each other. Winner: Rikish & Scotty

 

World Tag Team Championship

Rob Van Dam & Booker T vs. La Resistance vs.

Mark Jindrak & Garrison Cade vs. Dudley Boyz

WrestleMania is a forum where reputations are made and broken. Cade and Jindrak have been slowly laboring towards this event over the past several months. They’ve studied the past, and represent tomorrow. And even the eclectic pair of Rob Van Dam and Booker T cannot hold them back. Winner: Cade & Jindrak

 

Open Cruiserweight Elimination

Ultimo Dragon was a sensation in Japan and Mexico, but has yet to make his mark in WWE. He sees WrestleMania as his opportunity to do so. Unfortunately, he finds himself in an encounter against nine gifted opponents. And Chavo Guerrero is just too good right now to lose his crown. Winner: Guerrero

 

Women's Championship

Molly vs. Victoria

For some reason, Molly is convinced that the WWE women’s championship literally belongs to her. Her win at WrestleMania is pre-ordained, she reasons, and, therefore, she couldn’t possibly lose the match – and her hair. But Molly is wrong. Victoria will maintain her title, and her widow’s peak. Winner: Victoria

[Jobber of the Week 0]

Someone forgot about Kane/UT it seems.

 

I guess UT's match is going to be the one with the big "Holy Shit" moment. Or it'll have no finish.

[RavishingRickRudo 0]

Anthony Cali:

 

Open Cruiserweight Elimination

Madison Square Garden has a history for being an arena dominated by Italian-American athletes. For years now, fans have piled into the World’s Most Famous Arena to cheer on legendary goombas such as Jake LaMotta, Rocky Marciano, Primo Carnera and Bruno Sammartino –the longest reigning WWE Champion of all-time. At WrestleMania XX, the tradition will continue. Nunzio will prevail in the Open Cruiserweight Elimination, where he will dethrone Chavo Jr. and add to the rich history of immortal paisans who have come before him. On March 14, Nunzio won’t just be fighting for himself, he’ll be fighting for his people.

 

Christian vs. Chris Jericho

Over the past few months, we have watched Chris Jericho, in my opinion, become soft. His concern for saving his precious Trish Stratus has put both his career and his body on the line. Now, with a severely weakened knee, Jericho is vulnerable, and at WrestleMania XX, Christian will beat some sense into Jericho and show him the error of his ways. There’s an old saying; “women come and go, but friendships last forever.” Christian’s mission is to show this to Y2J firsthand.

 

Women's Championship

Molly vs. Victoria

This match doesn’t seem fair. Molly Holly is a beautiful woman with healthy, shiny hair, and it would be a complete travesty for her to lose it because of a stipulation made up by a troublemaking sheriff. Still, unlike the “Hair vs. Hair” match at WrestleMania III, which saw Adrian Adonis lose his precious mane to Roddy Piper, Molly will rise to the occasion by successfully defending her gorgeous locks and regaining the Women’s Championship.

 

Playboy Evening Gown Match

Torrie & Sable vs. Stacy Keibler & Jackie Gayda

Here you have four beautiful women competing in a match which requires the participants to lose their clothes. I hope they all lose! The only winners in this match will be the fans.

 

Rock 'N' Sock Connection vs. Evolution

On paper, the reunion of the Rock ‘N' Sock Connection sounds like an unstoppable tandem, but let’s look at the facts. You have The Rock, who hasn’t wrestled in 11 months, teaming up with Mick Foley, who has been retired for four years, and the ring rust on these two probably makes the Titanic look like a 2004 Lincoln. To make matters worse, they have to defeat three members of the most dominant group in sports-entertainment. So while Rock ‘N' Sock will put up a good battle, my money is on Evolution’s Batista, Orton & Flair.

 

World Tag Team Championship

Booker T & Rob Van Dam vs. La Resistance vs.

Garrison Cade & Mark Jindrak vs. The Dudley Boyz

Three of the four teams involved in this match have held the World Tag Team Championship. At WrestleMania XX, the biggest stage of them all, Garrison Cade and Mark Jindrak will become the fourth. They have everything to prove and nothing to lose, so it is inevitable that these two hungry young lions will have something up their sleeve that will enable them to come out on top. Get the champagne on ice and keep the limo running, because it’s gonna be a long night for Cade & Jindrak.

 

WWE Tag Team Championship

Rikishi & Scotty 2 Hotty vs. the APA vs. The World's

Greatest Tag Team vs. The Basham Brothers

While I‘m a little upset that Full-Blooded Italians won’t be involved in this tag team affair, I am glad to see that Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin will finally be given a chance to regain their Tag Team Titles. These two guys are for real, and it is high time that they are given an opportunity to shine. When it comes to pure technical wrestling, nobody can match the World’s Greatest Tag-Team. At WrestleMania XX, they will dominate the ring like never before.

 

U.S. Championship

John Cena vs. Big Show

Although John Cena has displayed amazing acts of strength against Big Show in recent months, defeating a 7’4“, 500-pound monster is no easy task. We’ve seen how awesome the Show can be when properly motivated, and I feel that at the biggest WrestleMania of all time, the largest professional athlete in the world is going to make an example out of Cena. I think it’s safe to say that Big Show will successfully defend his U.S. Title.

 

Kane vs. Undertaker

Undertaker has a perfect WrestleMania record (11-0), but this year it all comes to an end. We haven’t seen Taker since Survivor Series when he was buried alive, and for all we know this could just be another one of Kane’s enemies playing mind games with him. In the event that it is Undertaker, Kane will finish him off and put an end to the decade-plus of destruction. There really isn’t a scarier or more dominant force in WWE than Kane, and I think that in order for him to reach his full potential, he will need to finish off his brother for good.

 

Goldberg vs. Brock Lesnar, special ref Stone Cold Steve Austin

The deck certainly seems stacked against Brock Lesnar. He’s facing one of the most explosive Superstars in recent history with a referee that isn’t exactly on his A-list. But what many people aren’t taking into account is the fact that Steve Austin has no friends and cannot be trusted –they don’t call him the Texas Rattlesnake for nothing. At WrestleMania XX, Stone Cold is going to snap, and when the dust clears, Brock Lesnar is going to be declared the victor.

 

World Heavyweight Championship

Triple H vs. Chris Benoit vs. Shawn Michaels

People don’t call Triple H “The Game” for nothing. The leader of Evolution is a natural born survivor, and the best in the business today. Even though Hunter has already beaten both HBK and “the Crippler” in singles matches, and knows most of their strengths and weaknesses, it isn’t likely that he will just rest on his laurels. Right now Triple H is probably sitting on his leather sofa in Greenwich, CT, studying tapes and finding ways to come out on top. On March 14, he will do just that. Whether people like it, the nameplate on the World Heavyweight Championship belt isn’t going anywhere for a long time to come.

 

WWE Championship

Eddie Guerrero vs. Kurt Angle

During the last couple of decades, some fans at Madison Square Garden have been known to cheer villains and boo heroes. And because of this phenomenon, it is likely that the Garden will be 100% behind Eddie Guerrero. When their role model, who lies, cheats and steals, drives down to the ring in a low-rider (probably stolen), the roof is going to pop right off the top of the building. However wrestling isn’t a popularity contest, and once the action gets going in the ring, Kurt Angle is going to go Olympic on Latino Heat. I predict he will capture the WWE Championship and teach the sold-out New York crowd why lying, cheating and stealing doesn’t always pay off in the end.

[RavishingRickRudo 0]

Michael Dworkis:

 

Women's Championship

Molly vs. Victoria

Molly can and will do anything in her power to win this match. It’s not just about regaining the championship, it’s also about dignity. If you were about to be shaved bald, wouldn’t you do anything in your power to stop it? Molly will. Winner: Molly

 

Christian vs. Chris Jericho

Jericho has a leg injury, and Christian will not pass up a chance to inflict further damage onto his former friend. Christian is the master of capitalizing on a weakness. Jericho has two: his leg, and an unending infinity for Trish Stratus. Winner: Christian

 

Open Cruiserweight Elimination

He is making his way back into the SmackDown! scene, and this Cruiserweight Elimination is the perfect way for Billy Kidman to take back the spotlight. To win this match, you must have ring savvy and veteran skills to be able to dish out the punishment, and have the resilience to survive the punishment from other contenders. Kidman can do just that. Winner: Billy Kidman

 

World Tag Team Championship

Booker T & RVD vs. Mark Jindrak & Garrison Cade

vs. La Resistance vs. Dudley Boyz

No question about it. These two rookies have been biding their time and waiting for their chance to shine. If there ever was a time to break out as the best tag team on RAW, this is it. They already have wins over La Resistance and the Dudleys. Jindrak and Cade have the right formula to make it big, and they’re going to show it on the biggest stage of the year. Winners: Mark Jindrak & Garrison Cade

 

WWE Tag Team Championship

Rikishi & Scotty 2 Hotty vs. The APA vs. World’s Greatest

Tag Team vs. The Basham Brothers

Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin are on a roll on SmackDown! It has been while since they held the championships, and now is the time for them to win them again. They are smart, pick their spots and know when to strike. They defeated APA at No Way Out, and that is no easy task. In a match like this, you need brains, and not only brawn. Haas & Benjamin are walking out of WrestleMania as WWE Tag Team Champions, no question. Winners: World’s Greatest Tag Team

 

Playboy Evening Gown Match

Stacy & Ms. Jackie vs. Sable & Torrie

Stacy Keibler , Miss Jackie, Sable and Torrie Wilson all in one ring, at the same time, in a first-ever Playboy Evening Gown Match. Enough said. Winners: The Fans

 

Rock 'N' Sock Connection vs. Evolution

There is no chance that The Rock will let down the millions and millions of WrestleMania watchers down. Randy Orton made the mistake of angering Foley, now Foley toys with Orton. At WrestleMania, Foley will release his anger as only the Hardcore Legend can. In addition, there may be strength in numbers, but Rock and Foley have a chemistry and bond unlike any tag team in recent WWE history. Winners: Rock ‘N’ Sock

 

U.S. Championship

John Cena vs. Big Show

John Cena knows how to talk trash and back it up, but when you try to back it up against a 7 foot, 500-pound behemoth, you are asking for trouble. Also realize Cena has a bad knee going in, so an FU is out of the question. Cena will probably try to antagonize Show with a freestyle before the match, but the Big Show will do all the talking he needs with a chokeslam that says: “I’m the greatest United States Champion… Ever.” Winner: The Big Show

 

Kane vs. Undertaker

The “freak” is so freaked out right now that if it truly is the Undertaker we all know and love, Kane has a better chance of winning the lottery. Kane’s fear will surface once again, and leave him wide open to be brutally assaulted by the Undertaker. Kane may decide to bury himself to escape the wrath of the Dead Man. Winner: The Undertaker

 

Brock Lesnar vs. Goldberg, special ref Stone Cold Steve Austin

Brock does not understand what he has done. Sure, Goldberg accidentally speared Austin on RAW a month ago, but Brock made the mistake of attacking Austin from behind. That is a far worse crime. Even without Austin, Brock does not realize the torture he is about to experience. Goldberg is a machine. Brock has let his ego take over. He thinks that he is the only one who can “bring the pain.” This time around, Goldberg will be bringing the pain on Brock, and once Brock’s over confidence is shattered, he will understand what it means to be “next.” Winner: Goldberg

 

WWE Championship

Kurt Angle vs. Eddie Guerrero

Angle has gotten into the mind of Eddie Guerrero. Eddie may have come back against all odds, but this time he is dealing with a man who defines competitive focus. When Angle is focused, there is no stopping him. Credit to Eddie, he has overcome adversities through his whole life, but Eddie is no longer the hunter, he is the hunted, a role he may not be accustomed to. Angle has strong beliefs about what a champion represents, and it is because of that desire and belief, Angle will win the WWE Championship. Winner: Kurt Angle

 

World Heavyweight Championship

Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H vs. Chris Benoit

Sure, you’re thinking that I picked Chris Benoit because he won the Royal Rumble and has never been World Champion in WWE. Wrong. Benoit has something that he wants to prove. Shawn Michaels and Triple H have held the World Heavyweight Championship, they know what it is like to be a the “top of the mountain,” Benoit does not. Benoit has reached for it, he has scratched it, but never could hold the gold in his hands. He never has had the opportunity to clutch a World Championship to his chest. THAT is what Benoit wants, is what he craves. People at the top of the ladder do not want to go back down. That is how Triple H sees it. Shawn Michaels sees only revenge on Triple H. All three have a drive to win at WrestleMania, but only one of them has the obsession that he will sacrifice his body to get to the top. That man is “The Crippler,” Chris Benoit. Winner: Chris Benoit

[RavishingRickRudo 0]

Kevin Sullivan:

 

Chris Jericho vs. Christian

There’s really only one way to start a WrestleMania predictions column – with Christian. This Sunday at Madison Square Garden, the world’s most underrated Superstar will leave Y2J wondering what went wrong, as he catapults himself into main event status. After the match, don’t be surprised if a starry-eyed Trish Stratus drops the zero and turns her attention towards the hero, Christian.

 

Women's Championship

Molly vs. Victoria

Even though I believe that Molly is the most talented woman wrestler on the RAW roster, I’m pulling for Victoria on this one. Look for the champ to drop Molly with a Widow’s Peak, then shave that skull of hers balder than a baby’s bottom. Sorry, Molly.

 

WWE Championship

Kurt Angle vs. Eddie Guerrero

The WWE Champion will not be able to lie, cheat or steal his way to a win this Sunday against former WWE Champion Kurt Angle. After a devastating loss to Brock Lesnar last year at WrestleMania, Angle will stop at nothing to prove he can win the big one on the biggest stage of them all. Look for Angle to walk out of WrestleMania as the WWE Champion.

 

Undertaker vs. Kane

While I often times claim to be an insider with all the answers, I have no freaking clue on this one. How can you possibly pick a winner? We haven’t seen the Undertaker since late last year. We have no idea what he looks like physically. We have no clue if he can still compete with the likes of the monstrous Kane. There just seems to be too many wild cards that can be played on this one. However, for the sake of making a prediction, I am going to pick Kane, just for the hell of it.

 

Playboy Evening Gown Match

Stacy & Miss Jackie vs. Sable & Torrie

I have no idea what my colleagues are going to pick on this one, but I’m willing to bet that over 50 percent of them said that the fans will be the real winners in this match. Good one, guys… real original. My nod goes to Sable and Torrie for no other reason than the fact that Sable has the most WrestleMania experience under her belt than any of the other Divas.

 

Open Cruiserweight Elimination

Again, there are just so many wild cards that can be played in this one that it makes it near impossible to pick a winner. Personally, I have never seen a match of this type and look forward to seeing it on Sunday. Undoubtedly, there will be human beings flying through the air as if they were jet planes in this one. The last one to land in my eyes will be Chavo Guerrero, en route to retaining the Cruiserweight Championship.

 

Rock ‘N’ Sock Connection vs. Evolution

Take this piece of advice – never bet against Ric Flair. Despite his advanced age, the Nature Boy is the best to ever lace up a pair of boats. I like Evolution, sans Triple H, in this one. They appear to be more hungry. In addition, they compete week-in-and-week-out on RAW, while The Rock and Mick Foley do not. Look for ring rust, combined with the overwhelming numbers disadvantage to cost Rock ‘N’ Sock this one.

 

Goldberg vs. Brock Lesnar, special ref Stone Cold Steve Austin

Without question, Goldberg and Brock Lesnar are two of the most impressive physical specimens to ever step inside a wrestling ring. This Sunday, however, one of these men will come up short. That man will be Brock Lesnar. Lesnar, however, is not going to lose because he is less talented. Lesnar, rather, will lose because he pissed off a rattlesnake. I find it hard to believe that Stone Cold Steve Austin will not get involved somehow in this match. I think payback will be in order for Stone Cold, and as a result, Lesnar will find his shoulders on the mat for the three count.

 

U.S. Championship

John Cena vs. Big Show

Big Show. The man is a freaking monster.

 

World Heavyweight Championship

Chris Benoit vs. Shawn Michaels vs. Triple H

He’s proved it time and time again – Triple H is the Game and he is that damn good. That said there is no reason to doubt that he will prove it once again this Sunday when he puts his World Heavyweight Championship on the line in a Triple Threat Match against former best friend Shawn Michaels and Royal Rumble winner Chris Benoit.

[Lil' Bitch 0]

Open Cruiserweight Elimination

In all of WrestleMania history, there has never been a match of this nature. Ten of WWE’s most unpredictable and explosive competitors all the ring at the same time. The key to winning this one is going to be staying power. Since it’s an elimination type match, the winner will be required to outlast all the opposition. I’m going with Ultimo Dragon on this one, since he’s a rare cruiserweight in that he is just as adept at taking to the mat as he is at taking to the air. He’s the most experienced competitor in the bunch, and this is his chance to really remind everyone that he’s one of the best wrestlers in the world, period. Winner: Ultimo Dragon

 

Fucking sweet!

[RavishingRickRudo 0]

Mike Spinner:

 

World Heavyweight Championship

Triple H vs. Chris Benoit vs. Shawn Michaels

To understand why WrestleMania will be Chris Benoit’s night, it is important to understand the role that each participant is playing during this Triple Threat Match. Triple H is the heavy favorite to win, particularly because all three of his Evolution cohorts will be in the arena. As we all learned on RAW this past week, “strength in numbers” is a powerful weapon, and there is nobody in WWE today with the backing that Triple H brings to the ring. Barring a very sudden victory by Michaels or Benoit, if it seems like Triple H is in trouble, somebody will come to his defense. Michaels is the sentimental favorite because the last two times he has met Triple H for the World Heavyweight Championship, he has come as close as close gets to winning the Championship but walked out without the hardware each time. Sentimentally, he is the one who should win this match.

 

 

All of this is why Benoit will win. He is the underdog who is only in this match because of a legal loophole that allowed him to defect from SmackDown! Based on statements during RAW, Michaels has clearly looked past Benoit and is focused on his long-term rivalry with Triple H. Triple H has unfinished business with Michaels as well. Those two will undoubtedly be focused on each other, giving Benoit the opportunity to win. Add to the mix that this is Benoit’s first truly golden opportunity to be the World Heavyweight Champion, and the Canadian Crippler is walking out of Madison Square Garden with the very Championship he has always coveted. Winner: Chris Benoit

 

 

 

WWE Championship

Eddie Guerrero vs. Kurt Angle

When was the last time somebody truly got the best of Eddie Guerrero? Possibly never. Guerrero has become a force in sports entertainment because he never backs down from a fight and seems to always find a way to get the better of his opponent. For weeks, Kurt Angle has had Eddie’s number, and at WrestleMania, Guerrero will settle the score. Angle may have all of the momentum after weeks of gaining the upper hand on Guerrero, but Latino Heat has not had an equal chance to gain any measure of revenge – particularly because every time he saw Angle leading up to WrestleMania, he was in handcuffs. At WrestleMania, the cuffs will be off – as will be the gloves – and Guerrero has enough built up anger at Angle that he is going to storm to victory and hold the WWE Championship for another day. Winner: Guerrero

 

 

 

Goldberg vs. Brock Lesnar, special ref Stone Cold Steve Austin

Two predictions: First, Goldberg is going to win in what will be the most difficult match of his career. Secondly, neither man will walk out of MSG because they both have enraged the toughest man in WWE. Goldberg wins this match because Lesnar is so focused on hurting people that he forgot that he has a match to win. After all, going after the man who will be the ref is not the best way to prepare for a match. Losing the WWE Championship has taken something from Lesnar and it appears as if he isn't in control. Goldberg, on the other hand, has been very quiet the last few weeks and preparing for the match of his life. Thus, he will win. However, while Austin has rarely officiated a match, when he has, neither participant found it easy to leave the ring after the match. At Judgment Day 1998, Austin officiated the match between Taker and Kane and knocked both men out. At some point during WrestleMania, he'll do the same. Winner: Goldberg

 

 

 

Undertaker vs. Kane

To steal a cliché, only three things in life are certain: Death, Taxes, and an Undertaker victory at Mania. Taker has been gone for a while, but he has not forgotten that Kane ruined Taker’s shot at revenge on his nemesis, Mr. McMahon. Kane eulogized his brother after burying him by saying that Taker was dead long before Survivor Series because he had lost his inner monster. Well, the monster is back, and on a stage where Taker has had great success, he will emerge victorious. Winner: Undertaker

 

 

 

Rock ‘N’ Sock Connection vs. Evolution

On paper, this match appears to be a major mismatch in Evolution’s favor. Not only do they have the numbers advantage, but neither The Rock nor Mick Foley have seen much action in the ring recently – save a few beatings from Evolution. However, Rock & Sock have history on their side, and on a night with the historical significance of WrestleMania, the Rock ‘N’ Sock Connection will walk away victorious. Let’s put it this way: Who really wants to be in the ring with Foley when he is angry? And since December, when he walked out of RAW when faced with a challenge from Randy Orton, Foley has built up enough anger to last a lifetime. Add to the mix that The Rock is perhaps in the best shape of his life, and the result of this match will make many fans happy. Winner: The Rock ‘N’ Sock Connection

 

 

 

U.S. Championship

Big Show vs. John Cena

Selecting Show to win may not be a popular choice, but it is the right one. As much as Cena has had Show’s number for several months, this is WrestleMania and a Championship Match – in this area, Show is a veteran and Cena is very wet behind the ears. It is one thing to win a match on SmackDown!, but to win a match of such importance at WrestleMania, it takes something extra. Show has shown the ability to win such a match before, while this is Cena’s first match of such a magnitude. Winner: Big Show

 

 

 

Christian vs. Chris Jericho

The Hollywood ending suggests that Trish will come to the ring to interfere on Jericho’s behalf and after a Jericho victory, Trish and her man leave the ring arm-in-arm. This is NOT Hollywood! Not only will Christian win, but somehow the Stratus factor will have a shocking conclusion. Either Stratus is going to stun everybody by shunning both Christian and Y2J as a measure of revenge for “the bet”, or Christian and Jericho are a lot friendlier than they have made it seem and ultimately, Trish will be the one to lose out – Either way, throw Hollywood out the window, this match will be the shocker of the night … one way or the other. Winner: Christian

 

 

 

Playboy Evening Gown Match

Torrie Wilson & Sable vs. Miss Jackie & Stacy Keibler

Is there really a loser of an Evening Gown Match? With the exception of the Patterson vs. Brisco Evening Gown Match, most Evening Gown Matches are of such a level of entertainment, that nobody really loses. Torrie & Sable win this match because, if you have looked at their Playboy spread as much as I, you can tell that they work well together! Ultimately, the real winners will be the fans! Winner: The fans first, Torrie Wilson & Sable second

 

 

 

Women's Championship

Victoria vs. Molly

If this were to be any regular match without a stipulation, Victoria wins handily as she has had Molly’s number for months. But with Molly’s hair on the line, she has that extra incentive that will lead her to victory. I would venture to say that Molly has spent much time throughout her life styling a hairdo that has helped make her a hot looking WWE Diva. To lose it all would be too much to bear and Molly will not let that happen. Molly will find a way to win, keep her hair, and enjoy another reign as Champion. Winner: Molly

 

 

 

WWE Tag Team Championship

Rikishi & Scotty 2 Hotty vs. APA vs. The Self-Proclaimed

World’s Greatest Tag Team vs. the Basham Brothers

With up to eight men in the ring at one time and only one referee, the team that will win this match will be the one who can take advantage of what is a potentially chaotic situation. The Basham Brothers have made a living on taking advantage of such chaos and, as a result, they will sneak their way to victory at WrestleMania. Winner: The Basham Brothers

 

 

 

World Tag Team Championship

Booker T & RVD vs. Dudley Boyz vs. Garrison Cade &

Mark Jindrak vs. La Resistance

As good as Booker T and RVD have become as a team, they are both singles competitors at heart. They will lose the World Tag Team Championship at WrestleMania, and the team to win it all will be the least likely duo. La Resistance and the Dudleys are perhaps the two best teams in WWE over the last year, but Cade & Jindrak are the team of destiny. There is something very special about this young team and whether it is as a duo or as singles competitors, both Jindrak and Cade are going to be huge in WWE. And like most legendary competitors, they will be remembered for their first major moment – winning the gold at WrestleMania XX. Winner: Garrison Cade & Mark Jindrak

 

 

Open Cruiserweight Elimination

It's hard to pick a winner here because in a match like this, it is difficult to gain an edge. 10 men of fairly equal size and strength competing at the same time … the one who will win is the one with the most stamina and ability to endure punishment. Enter Shannon Moore. If there were a Championship for the ability to take a licking and keep on ticking, Moore would be a dynasty. When Matt Hardy defected from SmackDown! to RAW, Moore endured some of the most gruesome punishments ever seen at the hands of the likes of Brock Lesnar and Matt Morgan. But, in the words of Paul Heyman, he “always came back for more.” That perseverance makes Moore the odds-on-favorite and he will survive to the end and defeat Chavo Guerrero to win the Cruiserweight Championship. Winner: Shannon Moore

[Guest I Got Banned for Sucking]

Haha, obviously those are fluff predictions.

 

Ultimo Dragon is over, because the fans love the shit that he can do.

 

If he was to win the WWE Cruiserweight Championship, while having next to no build-up, you won't hear me complaining.

[RavishingRickRudo 0]

Yes, obviously they aren't what they actually think, but they are what they want YOU to think. Which basically means, Chris Benoit sucks - don't cheer him.

[Guest I Got Banned for Sucking]

A carbon copy of a WWE magazine.

 

The most expensive, yet the worst read.

[Guest Coffey]

lol marx

[Guest Fook]

While I'm laughing at the predictions given (Akio wins the CW open???, Jindrak and Cade as new tag champs???), I've always liked the idea of treating the matches as a regular sporting event and offering predictions similar to the way real announcers do. ie. saying that Cena's inexperience in big matches will hinder his performance would be a plausible situation if the matches weren't predetermined.

[RavishingRickRudo 0]

This isn't treated like a sporting event though..

 

"HHH will win because he is the game" isn't exactly expert analysis.

[RavishingRickRudo 0]

With the majority of predictions pointing toward a Triple H victory, I'm thinking that they want us to think for definite that Chris Benoit has little chance of winning, which leads me to believe that Benoit is going to walk out of MSG with the belt.

 

But it's not because Benoit is actually better than HHH or Michaels.

 

"He is the underdog who is only in this match because of a legal loophole that allowed him to defect from SmackDown! "

 

*groan*

[Guest JMA]

Has Rob Conway been retconned into being a former tag-champ (with Dupree) or have the Powers That Be completely forgotten about Slyvain Grenier? I've noticed JR has also said La Resistance (Version 2.0) are "former tag-team champs." But this is a relatively minor gripe. Just thought it was worth mentioning.

 

I could really see the Vanilla Thrillers (Jindrak and Cade) winning. Either them or the Dudleys (they will be in New York).

[Guest Coffey]

Jindrak and Cade as new tag champs???

Don't be too surprised if that one actually happens.

[Guest Goodear]

Ultimo Dragon is over, because the fans love the shit that he can do.

 

If he was to win the WWE Cruiserweight Championship, while having next to no build-up, you won't hear me complaining.

WWE fans don't give two shits about Ultimo Dragon. And why the fuck should they? He can't work as well as he used to and WWE has certainly haven't given them a single reason past the initial video packages.

[Lil' Bitch 0]

With the majority of predictions pointing toward a Triple H victory, I'm thinking that they want us to think for definite that Chris Benoit has little chance of winning, which leads me to believe that Benoit is going to walk out of MSG with the belt.

 

Benoit has much chance of winning the title this Sunday as Kane does of beating the Undertaker.

[humongous2002 0]

The Vanilla Jobber Conection as tag team champs???This is laughable, and here i thought they need to get over b4 they get the belts and not the other way around.

[Guest wildpegasus]

Yes, obviously they aren't what they actually think, but they are what they want YOU to think.  Which basically means, Chris Benoit sucks - don't cheer him.

With the majority of predictions pointing toward a Triple H victory, I'm thinking that they want us to think for definite that Chris Benoit has little chance of winning, which leads me to believe that Benoit is going to walk out of MSG with the belt.

Yes but the WWE could also be playing the old switcheroo by first making us mortals think that Benoit is going to win because they're all predicting HHH when in actuality the WWE is telling the clever HHH fans that he's winning. It's reverse, reverse physcology or something like that. Or maybe they're feeling guilty about getting all of Benoit's fans hopes up and are just flat out telling us the truth.