Because of the way his popularity has skyrocketed over the past year or his starring role in the Bloodline saga, there was always hope from some fans, right up until he lost to Roman Reigns at Elimination Chamber, that Sami Zayn would find his way into the main event of one night of WrestleMania 39.
And while there’s still some time, it appears that’s not the direction WWE is going.
Not because Zayn won’t be on the card. Despite spurning his offer to team up against the Bloodline this week on Raw in Ottawa, Kevin Owens is still expected to team with Zayn to face The Usos for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship.
But that match, if and when it’s made official, isn’t likely to headline either night of action from SoFi Stadium. That’s according to Dave Meltzer in the latest edition of Wrestling Observer Newsletter.
Instead, WWE is leaning toward going with the SmackDown Women’s Championship in the other main event spot, probably the first night.
There is no decision on the main event past an internal feeling that Charlotte Flair vs. Rhea Ripley right now is the favorite. There is a push feeling for sponsors and political reasons after men main evented both nights last year it would be good for a women’s match to headline and the feeling Flair vs. Ripley is stronger than Bianca Belair vs. Asuka for the spot.
Meltzer does add that, “If there is Usos vs. Zayn & Kevin Owens, one would think that would be the other favorite.”
It’s a tough spot for WWE, because both matches are deserving. Other than Zayn, no WWE performer has raised their profile more since the last WrestleMania than Ripley, who’s consistently been presented as a monster heel and the enforcer of The Judgment Day.
But even with WrestleMania spread over two nights, there can only be two matches that top the cards. Even if Zayn and KO don’t close out one night, the fans will undoubtedly eat it up no matter when it takes place, and considering Sami was in a comedy match last year against Johnny Knoxville, it will still be a big step up for him.