What The Rock’s Return To Raw Means For Rusev
By Jason Russo
@jasonrusso25
WWE Official Facebook Page
“If ya smell …” Following the familiar line, The Rock came out to a huge pop from a thunderous Brooklyn crowd, interrupting an in-ring promo by Rusev. In Rusev’s promo, Lana promptly addressed the situation regarding the Russian Flag; calling the fans a bunch of bigots and saying Big Show committed a hate crime. She went on to say Big Show is afraid Rusev will crush him — in steps Rocky.
The Rock was most certainly electrifying tonight, as he addressed the audience on how he got to RAW by mentioning each borough. While exchanging cheap shots at Lana and calling Rusev “Chewbacca,” the Rock successfully brought more attention to Rusev; putting him over as a mega heel. After the promo, Rock laid the smackdown on Rusev, causing him to leave the ring. A look at the big picture now — what does this mean for Rusev?
This was a huge boost for Rusev in terms of being a heel. Right now, Rusev can be considered a top heel in the business, which is huge considering the current WWE Champion, Brock Lesnar, is heel. While he has yet to lose on RAW, did you know Rusev has never even attempted a pin? If he keeps up this momentum, he will be able to become one of the greatest heels of all-time. He has the total package: a solid wrestling foundation, a mouthpiece who can talk and a political angle — Americans will always be against anyone who dislikes America. One only has to look as far as Jack Swagger when he feuded with Rusev.
All that is left is giving Rusev a title run at the US Championship. Let’s be honest, nobody likes Sheamus as champion. He has done nothing at the US title in his current run. I know that by making Rusev US champion, he brings back meaning to the strap and gives himself instant heat. It is also a chance to put over a new superstar due to the fans cheering on whoever can beat the “Ravishing Russian.”
For now, Rusev has potentially entered a feud with The Rock. If he could pull off a few victories over “The Great One,” Rusev would be solidified as a serious contender in the WWE and will be one for a long time. Right now, I think Rusev is one of the few superstars who is being booked correctly and it certainly is showing. Rusev is easily one of the most hated superstars, which means he is doing his job correctly. Look for Rusev to continue to be one of the strongest heels WWE has to offer.
Jason Russo is a professional wrestling writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on twitter @JasonRusso25 and “Like” him on Facebook.
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