In the world of professional wrestling, the week of July 13, 2026, was a whirlwind of title changes and dramatic returns. The WWE and AEW universes were abuzz with excitement and anticipation, leaving fans with much to discuss and debate. Let's delve into the winners and losers of this eventful week, with a focus on the personal commentary and analysis that makes this article unique.
The Bloodline Storyline: A Refreshing Win
In my opinion, the Bloodline storyline emerged as a clear winner this week. The inclusion of Royce Keys into the secondary angle surrounding the stable was a strategic move by WWE, adding a layer of complexity and intrigue. Keys' confrontation with Jacob Fatu and Jimmy Uso on Friday's edition of "WWE SmackDown" was a refreshing change of pace, offering a unique perspective on the infighting within the Bloodline family. The storyline's potential to explore the dynamics between the members, especially with the absence of Roman Reigns' brother, Seth, adds an exciting dimension to the narrative.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the opportunity for WWE to delve into the complexities of family relationships within the context of professional wrestling. The idea of Keys trying to reason with Fatu and challenging his authority is a compelling twist, especially with the potential for a SummerSlam match against Fatu. This storyline has the potential to provide a much-needed boost to the blue brand, offering a fresh and engaging narrative that could captivate fans and create a buzz around the Bloodline stable.
Kenny Omega: The Champion's Triumph
Kenny Omega's victory over MJF at the Beach Break edition of "AEW Dynamite" was a momentous occasion. Nearly five years after his last AEW World Championship reign, Omega has once again reached the pinnacle of All Elite Wrestling. His evolution as a wrestler, adapting to the challenges of age and maintaining his ability to create memorable moments, is a testament to his skill and dedication.
What makes this achievement even more impressive is Omega's ability to connect with the audience. His signature "kicking out at one when he feels disrespected" schtick continues to generate a massive pop, and his exchanges with MJF were filled with viciousness and precision. Omega's reign as champion opens up a world of possibilities, from potential matches at AEW Redemption 2026 to the intriguing prospect of Will Ospreay losing at Wembley Stadium. The possibilities are truly endless, and the wrestling world is eagerly anticipating the journey ahead for Omega.
Baron Corbin: The Return of the Big Ass-Kicker
Baron Corbin's return to WWE is a welcome sight, especially given the current state of the company's roster. Corbin's presence fills a void left by the departure of big, loudmouth stars like Sheamus. His return booking, while controversial, is a strategic move by WWE to bring back a fan favorite with a unique blend of personality and size. Whether he takes on the role of Danhausen's heavy or becomes the man who retired Kurt Angle, Corbin's return is a significant win for WWE.
What makes this particularly interesting is the potential for Corbin to pay off on his potential as a formidable force in the WWE universe. His indie wrestling/MLW character was essentially a guy waiting for the call from WWE, and his return fulfills that destiny. Corbin's presence adds a layer of excitement and unpredictability to the current WWE landscape, making him a standout winner this week.
The Overabundance of Championships in AEW
AEW's copious number of championships is a double-edged sword. While the company's focus on multiple titles showcases its depth and talent, it also raises questions about the significance of each championship. The sheer number of titles, from the AEW World Championship to the International Championship, can sometimes feel overwhelming, diluting the impact of each title defense.
What many people don't realize is the potential for AEW to streamline its championships, creating a more focused and engaging narrative. The current state of the titles, with some rarely defended and others in the hands of babyfaces, can lead to a sense of confusion among fans. By carefully curating the championships and their defenses, AEW can create a more compelling and cohesive story, ensuring that each title feels special and significant.
Konosuke Takeshita: A Tough Loss in NJPW
Konosuke Takeshita's loss to Yota Tsuji in the G1 Climax opening night main event was a tough blow for the AEW International Champion. Takeshita's reign as champion was solid but unremarkable, and his defeat to Fletcher at Beach Break marked the end of his title run. However, his loss to Tsuji in NJPW's G1 Climax was even more disappointing, as it marked his second defeat to Tsuji this year and highlighted the potential decline of his original finisher, the Fire Blaster.
What makes this loss particularly interesting is the contrast between Takeshita's success in AEW and his struggles in NJPW. His reign as champion in AEW was a solid but unremarkable run, while his loss to Tsuji in NJPW's G1 Climax was a more significant setback. Takeshita's ability to bounce back and reclaim his title in AEW is crucial, as he remains one of the favorites for this year's G1. However, with two major losses back-to-back, he faces an uphill struggle to regain his momentum.
Sami Zayn: A Disappointing Title Run
Sami Zayn's nine-day reign as WWE Champion was a disappointment, especially given the high expectations that came with it. His loss to CM Punk on "Raw" marked the end of a transitional period, and his lack of appearance on "WWE SmackDown" and unclear direction for SummerSlam further emphasized his underwhelming run. Zayn's inability to make it to Saturday Night's Main Event and the uncertainty surrounding his future in the main event picture leave fans with a sense of uncertainty.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the contrast between Zayn's potential and the reality of his title run. As a fan favorite with a unique character, Zayn had the opportunity to make a significant impact as champion. However, his reign was marked by a lack of memorable moments and a failure to capitalize on the momentum that came with the title. The question remains: what could have been different, and how can Zayn bounce back from this disappointing run?
In conclusion, the week of July 13, 2026, was a rollercoaster of emotions for wrestling fans, with a mix of exciting wins and disappointing losses. The Bloodline storyline, Kenny Omega's championship triumph, Baron Corbin's return, and the overabundance of championships in AEW emerged as the standout winners, while Konosuke Takeshita and Sami Zayn's struggles left fans with much to ponder. As the wrestling world continues to evolve, the possibilities for the future are endless, and the excitement is palpable. The journey ahead promises to be a thrilling ride, and the fans are ready to embrace whatever surprises and twists the road may bring.
