One of the definitions of rumor, the Latin term from which the word rumor comes from, is associated with noise. And although many times rumors amount to nothing, on other occasions the noise takes shape. So, a few weeks ago we reported in SÚPER LUCHAS a report from Cageside Seats that stated that Finn Bálor would no longer be Brock Lesnar's opponent for WWE Royal Rumble (2018), when several signs pointed that he would seek his rematch for the Universal Championship.
Rumor: Finn Bálor would no longer be Brock Lesnar's opponent for Royal Rumble
Now, Dave Meltzer seems to confirm the bad news for the Irish. On his Wrestling Observer Radio, he spoke about Lesnar's current status and his immediate creative direction. Here are his words:
"The main event for Royal Rumble was scheduled to be Brock Lesnar vs. Finn Bálor for the Universal Championship. And obviously, if you watched Survivor Series, you will probably reach the conclusion that this is probably no longer the direction they will take. And if you watched Raw, I think you will realize that has definitely had to change. What I was told is that the official change was made this morning [yesterday]. But it was talked about yesterday [the day before yesterday]. Vince McMahon considered that Finn Bálor is not high enough. I think obviously, they decided that even before, watching how the match unfolded on Raw. Finn Bálor was not put there to shine."
For those who missed yesterday's episode of Raw, Bálor was defeated by Samoa Joe through his Coquina Clutch. Another negative outcome for the former NXT Champion, after the controversy raised by a very decisive defeat against Kane, which would have its reason in Meltzer's information. So for now, don't expect to see redemption, since according to forecasts, "The Red Machine" must continue to look strong for a confrontation with Braun Strowman.
Again, it is not indicated who will be Lesnar's opponent for the Royal Rumble as of today. Something that, with the fortunate/unfortunate knowledge of the plans until WrestleMania 34, has lost strength in the pragmatic sense: we already know that "The Beast" will retain his title until the grand event in April, where Roman Reigns will prevail.
As I wrote before, there are few credible options left for Lesnar until then, and there is the possibility that he may not defend his title in this first PPV of the year. It seems that Vince has had enough with scheduling a former Bullet Club member against Lesnar.