WWE’s Elimination Chamber gets under way this Sunday, and there’s no shortage of marquee matchups on the final pay-per-view before WrestleMania XXX. The WWE Universe will witness the return of the sadistic Elimination Chamber structure, featuring a diverse and thrilling lineup, Batista’s first singles match since coming back to action and the long-anticipated war between WWE’s most dominant stables, The Shield and The Wyatt Family.
But who will come out on top in all of these dream matches? Will Randy Orton still be the WWE World Heavyweight Champion when the Chamber cage is lifted, or will one of his five challengers prevail? Check out who the editors at WWE.com have picked as the big winners and losers at Elimination Chamber, and add your predictions in the comments section below
1.) Cody Rhodes & Goldust vs. Ryback and Curtis Axel
Joey Styles: Ryback & Curtis Axel are two successful singles wrestlers who forced themselves together as a team after declaring their independence from Paul Heyman. The Rhodes brothers are bound by blood and have already won the WWE Tag Team Titles. Do I think Ryback & Curtis Axel can beat Goldust & Cody Rhodes in singles matches? Yes. Do I think they can work cohesively enough to beat the sons of “The American Dream” in tag team wrestling, which requires a very different strategy? No. WINNERS: Cody Rhodes & Goldust
John Clapp: Both teams are jockeying for position in a crowded tag division, which must frustrate Cody Rhodes & Goldust to no end. I’d normally consider the former WWE Tag Team Champions the clear favorites, but Ryback & Axel feel like they’re on the brink of a tag team breakthrough, and the thrilling Rhodes brothers might still be vulnerable following their title loss at Royal Rumble. It’s an upset, but I’m going with Rybaxel. WINNERS: Ryback & Curtis Axel
Alex Giannini: The Rhodes brothers need a win, plain and simple. Riding a bit of a downward spiral since losing their WWE Tag Team Titles to The New Age Outlaws, Cody & Goldust are trapped in a malaise to be cured only by a Kickoff Match victory. They’ll get that “W” here against Rybaxel, and the brothers will get back on track soon after. WINNERS: Cody Rhodes & Goldust
Anthony Benigno: The former Heyman Guys get their most visible test yet against the former WWE Tag Team Champions, who have stayed strong in the race since losing their titles a month ago. “The Brotherhood’s” bond is tough to overcome, yet Rybaxel has been waiting in the wings long enough. They’re ready to take the next step. WINNERS: Ryback & Curtis Axel
Jake Grate: Will the Rhodes boys stake their claim of being the next rightful No. 1 contenders to the WWE Tag Team Championships? Or, will a dangerous duo in Rybaxel emerge as a new force in the tag team division? I think both will end up being true. This Sunday, however, Cody & Goldust start on their “Rhodes” to a WWE Tag Team Title rematch at WrestleMania XXX. WINNERS: Cody Rhodes & Goldust
2.) Intercontinental Championship Match
Big E (c) vs. Jack Swagger
Joey Styles: Big E regularly competes on every WWE television program except for “Total Divas,” and he seems to grow weekly — both from an experience standpoint and physically. I swear he keeps getting more muscular. He’s gotten so damn big that he no longer has room for a last name! I have all the respect in the world for Jack Swagger, but Big E’s powerful legs make him the worst possible opponent for the Patriot Lock. I see Big E muscling out of the hold at least twice before retaining the title with the Big Ending. WINNER: Big E
John Clapp: Given the competitors’ credentials, athleticism and overall toughness, this match feels like something plucked off a Mid-South Wrestling card from the ’80s. If Big E avoids Swagger’s superior mat game and remains mindful of the Patriot Lock, he’s golden. Actually, on second thought, does The Real American even possess the strength to make the Intercontinental Champion tap?WINNER: Big E
Alex Giannini: Under Zeb Colter’s…let’s call it, unconventional…tutelage, both Jack Swagger and Cesaro have done quite well for themselves lately, and I’m predicting a huge night for The Real Americans. This includes an upset victory by Swagger over the monstrously strong Big E. I’m betting on Swagger to out-wrestle the big man, snap in the Patriot Lock and cinch up a huge title win.WINNER: Jack Swagger
Anthony Benigno: One of the underrated aspects of sports-entertainment is a wrestling match that mutates into a full-on fight. This bout between the surging Big E and the got-his-swagger-back Jack Swagger figures to be that match at Elimination Chamber. Look for Swagger to complete his rebound at the onset of both a new Intercontinental Champion and an epic rivalry. We the People.WINNER: Jack Swagger
Jake Grate: Although his seemingly limitless talent has never been in doubt, Swagger has fallen on tough times of late, watching as Zeb Colter’s other patriotic pupil, Cesaro, has picked up momentum and fought his way into the WWE World Heavyweight Championship Elimination Chamber Match. I expect Swagger to turn things around, but not at Elimination Chamber and not against Big E, who is in the midst of a dominant run himself. WINNER: Big E
3.) Titus O'Neil vs. Darren Young
Joey Styles: Since The Prime Time Players split, both Darren Young and Titus O’Neil have enjoyed major singles victories. However, at Elimination Chamber, only one can emerge as the franchise player of their former team. I’m picking O’Neil simply because history shows that the tag team partner with enough larceny in his heart to strike first is usually more successful. Don’t believe me, just ask Shawn Michaels. WINNER: Titus O’Neil
John Clapp: If the question was, which ex-Prime Time Player is the better-rounded Superstar, the answer is D-Young. But alas, that’s not the question. In betraying Young, O’Neil exhibited a nastiness that some Superstars, for better or worse, have proven effective. WINNER: Titus O’Neil
Alex Giannini: Darren Young’s got a new look, and a new outlook now that he and Titus are no longer Prime Time Players. And even though Titus has promised big things for himself now that he’s split from Mr. No Days Off, I think D-Young’s gonna shut his former friend up under the bright lights of the pay-per-view. Titus, it’s time for your comeuppance. WINNER: Darren Young
Anthony Benigno: I’m not about to wage millions of dollars either way, but given that Mr. No Days Off has recently gotten the better of his former buddy since their breakup, Titus O’Neil has surely been waiting to snap back like the gator that he is. It won’t be easy, but “The Big Deal” gets a big win.WINNER: Titus O’Neil
Jake Grate: I nearly shed a tear when Titus turned on poor Darren several weeks ago. I really enjoyed The Prime Time Players and how their skillsets complemented each other. On their own, as much as it pains me to say it, I think O’Neil’s overwhelming size, power and athleticism will carry him further than young Darren, starting this Sunday at Elimination Chamber. WINNER: Titus O’Neil
4.) WWE Tag Team Championship Match
The New Age Outlaws (c) vs. The Usos
Joey Styles: It’s the age old tale of youth vs. experience. There is no denying the credentials of The New Age Outlaws, but their opponents are riding a wave of momentum that originated from the island of Samoa. For The Usos, their time is now. Proudly brandishing the twin titles is in their legendary bloodline. Even if you disregard history, as of late The Usos have proven they can pin the champs. In a title contest that will see the Outlaws live up to their moniker by breaking every rule they can, Jimmy & Jey will overcome. Uce! WINNERS: The Usos
John Clapp: With their show-stealing performances, The Usos have proven to the WWE Universe that they’re ready to be main event attractions. Now, an exciting ring style doesn’t automatically equate to success, but Jimmy & Jey’s flash is just part of the story. They’ve fleshed out their game greatly since debuting in WWE nearly four years ago, and a win over the wise and calculating Outlaws is the perfect test to see if The Usos’ strategy is up to snuff. I bet it is. WINNERS: The Usos
Alex Giannini: Out with the old, in with the new, I say. It was nice seeing the Outlaws return to their former glory, but now’s the time for The Usos to emerge as the top dogs in an incredibly talented tag team division. I’m going with the highfliers over The Attitude Era mainstays. WINNERS: The Usos
Anthony Benigno: This is going to be one of the more entertaining matches of the evening. The champions’ irreverence and the challengers’ athleticism are equally likely to have the WWE Universe leaning on the replay button every time they’re on screen. As for who wins the thing, I lean toward The Usos. The champions are reeling after a rough couple of weeks and it’s time for Rikishi’s boys to seize their birthright. WINNERS: The Usos
Jake Grate: I have been a big fan of The Usos for months, as Jimmy & Jey have continually put on exciting performances and made a strong case that they can — and should — be the painted faces of the WWE tag team division. I think they take the next step this Sunday and snatch WWE’s twin titles from the Outlaws. WINNERS: The Usos
5.) Batista vs. Alberto Del Rio
Joey Styles: I like and respect former WWE and World Heavyweight Champion Alberto Del Rio. However, Batista driving him through the announce table on Raw made it painfully obvious to me — and it was probably more obvious to Alberto — that Batista will be victorious on Sunday. ‘Nuff said.WINNER: Batista
John Clapp: This matchup is fascinating. Del Rio’s pace alternates between slow and methodical (with an eye toward the long game) and fast-moving and technical — the exact sort of thing that could give Batista trouble. Unfortunately for The Mexican Artistocrat, I doubt he’ll even have a chance to dictate the pace. Expect The Animal to bum-rush the vain Del Rio from the word “go.” This one’s ending with a Batista Bomb. WINNER: Batista
Alex Giannini: I’m racking my mind, but I just don’t see any way for Alberto Del Rio to emerge from this one with a victory. Batista is bigger, stronger and currently leading the charge on The Road to WrestleMania XXX with a main event match and a title opportunity. Even the very real threat of a match-changing Cross Armbreaker being applied cannot change my mind about The Animal’s chances against his haughty foe. WINNER: Batista
Anthony Benigno: People dislike the affluent Del Rio for his pompous attitude, but personally? I’m a fan. The guy’s got style for days, even if he may have bitten off more than he can chew by starting random beef with Batista. Both guys can fight, but it’s Batista who has all the thrust going forward … which makes me think Del Rio might do what he always does and win when least expected.WINNER: Alberto Del Rio
Jake Grate: Although Batista has gotten the better of Del Rio in their confrontations thus far, The Mexican Aristocrat is a dangerous, opportunistic adversary who should not to be taken lightly. For his own sake, I hope The Animal hasn’t prematurely turned his attention to his WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match at WrestleMania XXX. I see Del Rio capitalizing on any weakness or lack of focus and getting some painful vengeance. WINNER: Alberto Del Rio
6.) The Wyatt Family vs. The Shield
Joey Styles: With all due respect to The Von Erichs and Fabulous Freebirds, I think The Hounds of Justice is the most dominant three-man team I have ever seen. However, I truly believe there is a crack in The Shield, specifically between Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns. When the wild and weird Wyatt Family exerts extreme pressure at Elimination Chamber, the crack will become a complete split. I see the Bray and his followers winning what will be the greatest Six-Man Tag Team Match in WWE history. WINNERS: The Wyatt Family
John Clapp: It’s around this point of the card that you begin to realize just how truly stacked this year’s Elimination Chamber is. The potential for new matchups is invigorating — for instance, I’m hoping to see Harper and Ambrose tie up — and there are a ton of options for how this fight could play out. Tough to call, but I give the match to The Hounds of Justice, with Reigns’ potent Superman Punch and spear leading to the winning pinfall. WINNERS: The Shield
Alex Giannini: I’m gonna be honest here, guys: I almost don’t care which faction actually wins. I just want to watch this match unfold. It’s the two most dominant three-man factions in WWE today — and possibly ever — and I can’t wait to see them engage in all-out ring warfare. The mind games are over; now it’s time to come out and play. In the end, I’m thinking the power of Roman Reigns will propel The Shield to victory. But at what cost will they prevail over the terrifyingly unpredictable Wyatts? WINNERS: The Shield
Anthony Benigno: Eep. This is going to be less a match and more of the war it’s being touted as, and both factions are prepared for battle. The edge would go to the more seasoned Shield nine days out of ten, but given the rising tensions within The Hounds’ doghouse, the idea of them toughing it out against the hive-minded Wyatt clan is a little bit more than I’m willing to believe. WINNERS: The Wyatt Family
Jake Grate: This is a match that anyone with a pulse has been waiting to see. The Hounds of Justice have been fraying at the seams of late, while The Wyatt Family has presented a united — and freaky — front. Additionally, Bray Wyatt’s singular, sermonizing leadership keeps his followers in check, while the more egalitarian Shield lacks a leading presence. I expect WWE’s creepiest family to get a huge victory and seize the title of WWE’s most dominant force. WINNERS: The Wyatt Family
7.) Elimination Chamber Match for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship
Randy Orton (c) vs. Daniel Bryan vs. John Cena vs. Cesaro vs. Sheamus vs. Christian
Joey Styles: I’m a big believer in momentum, and nobody in WWE has more than Daniel Bryan. There is no Superstar in the match that Daniel Bryan can’t pin with his flying knee or submit with his “Yes!” Lock. I see Bryan eliminating at least two competitors and leaving the sadistic steel structure as the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. WINNER: Daniel Bryan
John Clapp: The Elimination Chamber is such an incredibly unpredictable beast, thanks to its staggered entry system. That said, I think The Viper, coming off an overall losing effort in The Authority’s multi-week gauntlet series, will be the most incensed we’ve ever seen him, and as such, will turn the already grisly contraption into his own devious playground. WINNER: Randy Orton
Alex Giannini: Well, this is the big one, isn’t it? Seemingly impossible to predict, an Elimination Chamber Match presents all kinds of potentially unforeseen elements. From the random draw of when a Superstar’s pod will open to the ever-present possibility of injury, there are just so many factors that can — and usually do — come into play. Still, I’m going with the so-called “dark horse” of the bout, Cesaro, to power through and shock the WWE Universe. WINNER: Cesaro
Anthony Benigno: Randy Orton really is up a creek here, having beaten only one of his five foes in singles competition. Cena and Bryan have the forward motion of two freight trains (though Bryan’s tweaked shoulder makes him less a certainty); counting Christian out’s a huge mistake; Sheamus is fresh after six months on the bench; and Cesaro looked like a monster even in defeat on Raw. Even The Authority can’t penetrate the walls of “Satan’s Prison,” and my gut says it comes down to Bryan and Orton. The Beard’s got Orton’s goat already. He’ll take his title next and send the “Yes!” movement onto WrestleMania. WINNER: Daniel Bryan
Jake Grate: The career-shortening Elimination Chamber Match favors the fierce and the fortunate. While it’s no secret that it takes a tough-as-nails Superstar to triumph in the punishing structure, it’s also no secret that the competitor who spends the least time getting battered has an easier path to victory. Without any clue as to the order of entrants at this point, I’ll pick the most brutal and established brawler to capture the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. WINNER: Sheamus
But who will come out on top in all of these dream matches? Will Randy Orton still be the WWE World Heavyweight Champion when the Chamber cage is lifted, or will one of his five challengers prevail? Check out who the editors at WWE.com have picked as the big winners and losers at Elimination Chamber, and add your predictions in the comments section below
1.) Cody Rhodes & Goldust vs. Ryback and Curtis Axel
Joey Styles: Ryback & Curtis Axel are two successful singles wrestlers who forced themselves together as a team after declaring their independence from Paul Heyman. The Rhodes brothers are bound by blood and have already won the WWE Tag Team Titles. Do I think Ryback & Curtis Axel can beat Goldust & Cody Rhodes in singles matches? Yes. Do I think they can work cohesively enough to beat the sons of “The American Dream” in tag team wrestling, which requires a very different strategy? No. WINNERS: Cody Rhodes & Goldust
John Clapp: Both teams are jockeying for position in a crowded tag division, which must frustrate Cody Rhodes & Goldust to no end. I’d normally consider the former WWE Tag Team Champions the clear favorites, but Ryback & Axel feel like they’re on the brink of a tag team breakthrough, and the thrilling Rhodes brothers might still be vulnerable following their title loss at Royal Rumble. It’s an upset, but I’m going with Rybaxel. WINNERS: Ryback & Curtis Axel
Alex Giannini: The Rhodes brothers need a win, plain and simple. Riding a bit of a downward spiral since losing their WWE Tag Team Titles to The New Age Outlaws, Cody & Goldust are trapped in a malaise to be cured only by a Kickoff Match victory. They’ll get that “W” here against Rybaxel, and the brothers will get back on track soon after. WINNERS: Cody Rhodes & Goldust
Anthony Benigno: The former Heyman Guys get their most visible test yet against the former WWE Tag Team Champions, who have stayed strong in the race since losing their titles a month ago. “The Brotherhood’s” bond is tough to overcome, yet Rybaxel has been waiting in the wings long enough. They’re ready to take the next step. WINNERS: Ryback & Curtis Axel
Jake Grate: Will the Rhodes boys stake their claim of being the next rightful No. 1 contenders to the WWE Tag Team Championships? Or, will a dangerous duo in Rybaxel emerge as a new force in the tag team division? I think both will end up being true. This Sunday, however, Cody & Goldust start on their “Rhodes” to a WWE Tag Team Title rematch at WrestleMania XXX. WINNERS: Cody Rhodes & Goldust
2.) Intercontinental Championship Match
Big E (c) vs. Jack Swagger
Joey Styles: Big E regularly competes on every WWE television program except for “Total Divas,” and he seems to grow weekly — both from an experience standpoint and physically. I swear he keeps getting more muscular. He’s gotten so damn big that he no longer has room for a last name! I have all the respect in the world for Jack Swagger, but Big E’s powerful legs make him the worst possible opponent for the Patriot Lock. I see Big E muscling out of the hold at least twice before retaining the title with the Big Ending. WINNER: Big E
John Clapp: Given the competitors’ credentials, athleticism and overall toughness, this match feels like something plucked off a Mid-South Wrestling card from the ’80s. If Big E avoids Swagger’s superior mat game and remains mindful of the Patriot Lock, he’s golden. Actually, on second thought, does The Real American even possess the strength to make the Intercontinental Champion tap?WINNER: Big E
Alex Giannini: Under Zeb Colter’s…let’s call it, unconventional…tutelage, both Jack Swagger and Cesaro have done quite well for themselves lately, and I’m predicting a huge night for The Real Americans. This includes an upset victory by Swagger over the monstrously strong Big E. I’m betting on Swagger to out-wrestle the big man, snap in the Patriot Lock and cinch up a huge title win.WINNER: Jack Swagger
Anthony Benigno: One of the underrated aspects of sports-entertainment is a wrestling match that mutates into a full-on fight. This bout between the surging Big E and the got-his-swagger-back Jack Swagger figures to be that match at Elimination Chamber. Look for Swagger to complete his rebound at the onset of both a new Intercontinental Champion and an epic rivalry. We the People.WINNER: Jack Swagger
Jake Grate: Although his seemingly limitless talent has never been in doubt, Swagger has fallen on tough times of late, watching as Zeb Colter’s other patriotic pupil, Cesaro, has picked up momentum and fought his way into the WWE World Heavyweight Championship Elimination Chamber Match. I expect Swagger to turn things around, but not at Elimination Chamber and not against Big E, who is in the midst of a dominant run himself. WINNER: Big E
3.) Titus O'Neil vs. Darren Young
Joey Styles: Since The Prime Time Players split, both Darren Young and Titus O’Neil have enjoyed major singles victories. However, at Elimination Chamber, only one can emerge as the franchise player of their former team. I’m picking O’Neil simply because history shows that the tag team partner with enough larceny in his heart to strike first is usually more successful. Don’t believe me, just ask Shawn Michaels. WINNER: Titus O’Neil
John Clapp: If the question was, which ex-Prime Time Player is the better-rounded Superstar, the answer is D-Young. But alas, that’s not the question. In betraying Young, O’Neil exhibited a nastiness that some Superstars, for better or worse, have proven effective. WINNER: Titus O’Neil
Alex Giannini: Darren Young’s got a new look, and a new outlook now that he and Titus are no longer Prime Time Players. And even though Titus has promised big things for himself now that he’s split from Mr. No Days Off, I think D-Young’s gonna shut his former friend up under the bright lights of the pay-per-view. Titus, it’s time for your comeuppance. WINNER: Darren Young
Anthony Benigno: I’m not about to wage millions of dollars either way, but given that Mr. No Days Off has recently gotten the better of his former buddy since their breakup, Titus O’Neil has surely been waiting to snap back like the gator that he is. It won’t be easy, but “The Big Deal” gets a big win.WINNER: Titus O’Neil
Jake Grate: I nearly shed a tear when Titus turned on poor Darren several weeks ago. I really enjoyed The Prime Time Players and how their skillsets complemented each other. On their own, as much as it pains me to say it, I think O’Neil’s overwhelming size, power and athleticism will carry him further than young Darren, starting this Sunday at Elimination Chamber. WINNER: Titus O’Neil
4.) WWE Tag Team Championship Match
The New Age Outlaws (c) vs. The Usos
Joey Styles: It’s the age old tale of youth vs. experience. There is no denying the credentials of The New Age Outlaws, but their opponents are riding a wave of momentum that originated from the island of Samoa. For The Usos, their time is now. Proudly brandishing the twin titles is in their legendary bloodline. Even if you disregard history, as of late The Usos have proven they can pin the champs. In a title contest that will see the Outlaws live up to their moniker by breaking every rule they can, Jimmy & Jey will overcome. Uce! WINNERS: The Usos
John Clapp: With their show-stealing performances, The Usos have proven to the WWE Universe that they’re ready to be main event attractions. Now, an exciting ring style doesn’t automatically equate to success, but Jimmy & Jey’s flash is just part of the story. They’ve fleshed out their game greatly since debuting in WWE nearly four years ago, and a win over the wise and calculating Outlaws is the perfect test to see if The Usos’ strategy is up to snuff. I bet it is. WINNERS: The Usos
Alex Giannini: Out with the old, in with the new, I say. It was nice seeing the Outlaws return to their former glory, but now’s the time for The Usos to emerge as the top dogs in an incredibly talented tag team division. I’m going with the highfliers over The Attitude Era mainstays. WINNERS: The Usos
Anthony Benigno: This is going to be one of the more entertaining matches of the evening. The champions’ irreverence and the challengers’ athleticism are equally likely to have the WWE Universe leaning on the replay button every time they’re on screen. As for who wins the thing, I lean toward The Usos. The champions are reeling after a rough couple of weeks and it’s time for Rikishi’s boys to seize their birthright. WINNERS: The Usos
Jake Grate: I have been a big fan of The Usos for months, as Jimmy & Jey have continually put on exciting performances and made a strong case that they can — and should — be the painted faces of the WWE tag team division. I think they take the next step this Sunday and snatch WWE’s twin titles from the Outlaws. WINNERS: The Usos
5.) Batista vs. Alberto Del Rio
Joey Styles: I like and respect former WWE and World Heavyweight Champion Alberto Del Rio. However, Batista driving him through the announce table on Raw made it painfully obvious to me — and it was probably more obvious to Alberto — that Batista will be victorious on Sunday. ‘Nuff said.WINNER: Batista
John Clapp: This matchup is fascinating. Del Rio’s pace alternates between slow and methodical (with an eye toward the long game) and fast-moving and technical — the exact sort of thing that could give Batista trouble. Unfortunately for The Mexican Artistocrat, I doubt he’ll even have a chance to dictate the pace. Expect The Animal to bum-rush the vain Del Rio from the word “go.” This one’s ending with a Batista Bomb. WINNER: Batista
Alex Giannini: I’m racking my mind, but I just don’t see any way for Alberto Del Rio to emerge from this one with a victory. Batista is bigger, stronger and currently leading the charge on The Road to WrestleMania XXX with a main event match and a title opportunity. Even the very real threat of a match-changing Cross Armbreaker being applied cannot change my mind about The Animal’s chances against his haughty foe. WINNER: Batista
Anthony Benigno: People dislike the affluent Del Rio for his pompous attitude, but personally? I’m a fan. The guy’s got style for days, even if he may have bitten off more than he can chew by starting random beef with Batista. Both guys can fight, but it’s Batista who has all the thrust going forward … which makes me think Del Rio might do what he always does and win when least expected.WINNER: Alberto Del Rio
Jake Grate: Although Batista has gotten the better of Del Rio in their confrontations thus far, The Mexican Aristocrat is a dangerous, opportunistic adversary who should not to be taken lightly. For his own sake, I hope The Animal hasn’t prematurely turned his attention to his WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match at WrestleMania XXX. I see Del Rio capitalizing on any weakness or lack of focus and getting some painful vengeance. WINNER: Alberto Del Rio
6.) The Wyatt Family vs. The Shield
Joey Styles: With all due respect to The Von Erichs and Fabulous Freebirds, I think The Hounds of Justice is the most dominant three-man team I have ever seen. However, I truly believe there is a crack in The Shield, specifically between Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns. When the wild and weird Wyatt Family exerts extreme pressure at Elimination Chamber, the crack will become a complete split. I see the Bray and his followers winning what will be the greatest Six-Man Tag Team Match in WWE history. WINNERS: The Wyatt Family
John Clapp: It’s around this point of the card that you begin to realize just how truly stacked this year’s Elimination Chamber is. The potential for new matchups is invigorating — for instance, I’m hoping to see Harper and Ambrose tie up — and there are a ton of options for how this fight could play out. Tough to call, but I give the match to The Hounds of Justice, with Reigns’ potent Superman Punch and spear leading to the winning pinfall. WINNERS: The Shield
Alex Giannini: I’m gonna be honest here, guys: I almost don’t care which faction actually wins. I just want to watch this match unfold. It’s the two most dominant three-man factions in WWE today — and possibly ever — and I can’t wait to see them engage in all-out ring warfare. The mind games are over; now it’s time to come out and play. In the end, I’m thinking the power of Roman Reigns will propel The Shield to victory. But at what cost will they prevail over the terrifyingly unpredictable Wyatts? WINNERS: The Shield
Anthony Benigno: Eep. This is going to be less a match and more of the war it’s being touted as, and both factions are prepared for battle. The edge would go to the more seasoned Shield nine days out of ten, but given the rising tensions within The Hounds’ doghouse, the idea of them toughing it out against the hive-minded Wyatt clan is a little bit more than I’m willing to believe. WINNERS: The Wyatt Family
Jake Grate: This is a match that anyone with a pulse has been waiting to see. The Hounds of Justice have been fraying at the seams of late, while The Wyatt Family has presented a united — and freaky — front. Additionally, Bray Wyatt’s singular, sermonizing leadership keeps his followers in check, while the more egalitarian Shield lacks a leading presence. I expect WWE’s creepiest family to get a huge victory and seize the title of WWE’s most dominant force. WINNERS: The Wyatt Family
7.) Elimination Chamber Match for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship
Randy Orton (c) vs. Daniel Bryan vs. John Cena vs. Cesaro vs. Sheamus vs. Christian
Joey Styles: I’m a big believer in momentum, and nobody in WWE has more than Daniel Bryan. There is no Superstar in the match that Daniel Bryan can’t pin with his flying knee or submit with his “Yes!” Lock. I see Bryan eliminating at least two competitors and leaving the sadistic steel structure as the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. WINNER: Daniel Bryan
John Clapp: The Elimination Chamber is such an incredibly unpredictable beast, thanks to its staggered entry system. That said, I think The Viper, coming off an overall losing effort in The Authority’s multi-week gauntlet series, will be the most incensed we’ve ever seen him, and as such, will turn the already grisly contraption into his own devious playground. WINNER: Randy Orton
Alex Giannini: Well, this is the big one, isn’t it? Seemingly impossible to predict, an Elimination Chamber Match presents all kinds of potentially unforeseen elements. From the random draw of when a Superstar’s pod will open to the ever-present possibility of injury, there are just so many factors that can — and usually do — come into play. Still, I’m going with the so-called “dark horse” of the bout, Cesaro, to power through and shock the WWE Universe. WINNER: Cesaro
Anthony Benigno: Randy Orton really is up a creek here, having beaten only one of his five foes in singles competition. Cena and Bryan have the forward motion of two freight trains (though Bryan’s tweaked shoulder makes him less a certainty); counting Christian out’s a huge mistake; Sheamus is fresh after six months on the bench; and Cesaro looked like a monster even in defeat on Raw. Even The Authority can’t penetrate the walls of “Satan’s Prison,” and my gut says it comes down to Bryan and Orton. The Beard’s got Orton’s goat already. He’ll take his title next and send the “Yes!” movement onto WrestleMania. WINNER: Daniel Bryan
Jake Grate: The career-shortening Elimination Chamber Match favors the fierce and the fortunate. While it’s no secret that it takes a tough-as-nails Superstar to triumph in the punishing structure, it’s also no secret that the competitor who spends the least time getting battered has an easier path to victory. Without any clue as to the order of entrants at this point, I’ll pick the most brutal and established brawler to capture the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. WINNER: Sheamus