In the dynamic world of WWE, fortunes can change rapidly. Here at Cageside, we present our weekly stock report, analyzing three Superstars on the rise and three on a downward trajectory. After the eventful Royal Rumble 2024, seismic shifts have occurred, particularly signaling a potential turning point in the career of Brock Lesnar.
WWE Stock Decline: Whose Fortunes Diminished?
1. Becky Lynch: A Challenging Start to 2024
Despite her bold claims, Becky Lynch’s performance in the ring in early 2024 hasn’t lived up to expectations. Starting the year with a loss to Nia Jax on Raw’s Day 1 episode, Lynch faced further setbacks. Her Royal Rumble aspirations crumbled as she was eliminated by Nia, only managing to eliminate one opponent during the match. Rumors of a WrestleMania match with Rhea Ripley are overshadowed by her current cold streak.
2. AJ Styles: A Series of Setbacks
The Phenomenal One, AJ Styles, faced consecutive setbacks, including being laid out with an RKO on two separate occasions and ultimately being pinned by Roman Reigns in the WWE Universal title 4-way match at Royal Rumble. His recent performances cast doubt on his standing in the SmackDown main event storyline.
Cody Rhodes Makes History: First Consecutive Men’s Royal Rumble Winner in 26 Years
3. Brock Lesnar: A Shocking Downturn
Brock Lesnar’s return to WWE was highly anticipated for the Royal Rumble, setting the stage for a WrestleMania 40 program. However, shocking allegations in the Vince McMahon sex trafficking lawsuit led to Lesnar’s abrupt removal from Royal Rumble plans. This raises questions about the future of Lesnar’s WWE career, with the possibility of him missing WrestleMania 40.
Stock Rise: Emerging Forces in WWE
1. Jade Cargill: A Star on the Rise
Jade Cargill made a striking debut at Royal Rumble, eliminating Nia Jax and showcasing potential future matchups with elite stars like Bianca Belair and Becky Lynch. Her significant role in eliminating key competitors and lasting till the final three positions solidifies her as a rising star.
2. Damage CTRL: A Dominant Force
Damage CTRL had a remarkable week, securing the women’s tag team championship for The Kabuki Warriors on SmackDown and culminating in Bayley’s Royal Rumble victory. As WrestleMania approaches, Damage CTRL is positioned to receive a prominent spotlight, indicating a major storyline at the pinnacle event.
3. Cody Rhodes: Sealing a Legendary Status
Despite uncertainties surrounding The Rock’s return at Day 1, Cody Rhodes silenced doubters by eliminating CM Punk to claim back-to-back Royal Rumble victories. This achievement places Cody among the legends of WWE, positioning him to conclude his narrative and potentially end Roman Reigns’ prolonged reign as the top champion.
In conclusion, the aftermath of Royal Rumble 2024 has set WWE on a course of uncertainty and potential transformation. Brock Lesnar’s unexpected exit and the rise of emerging talents signal an intriguing period ahead in the world of professional wrestling. As the landscape evolves, fans eagerly anticipate the unfolding drama leading up to WrestleMania 40.
