In the world of professional wrestling, the week of July 13, 2026, was a rollercoaster of title changes, returns, and intriguing storylines. While some stars shone brightly, others found themselves in the shadows. Let's delve into the winners and losers of this eventful week, with a heavy dose of personal commentary and analysis.
The Bloodline Storyline: A Bright Spark
In my opinion, the Bloodline storyline emerged as the standout winner this week. The inclusion of Royce Keys into the secondary angle surrounding the stable was a clever move, adding a layer of complexity and intrigue. Keys' confrontation with Jacob Fatu and Jimmy Uso on Friday's 'WWE SmackDown' was a refreshing change of pace, offering a glimpse into the internal conflicts within the Bloodline family. The idea of Keys trying to reason with Fatu, emphasizing the absurdity of infighting within the family, was a brilliant twist. It raises the question: can the men team up despite their differences? This development feels like a breath of fresh air for the blue brand, providing a much-needed boost to an underutilized storyline. Personally, I think this could be the turning point the Bloodline angle needs, especially with the potential for a SummerSlam match between Keys and Fatu. It's a win for WWE's storytelling, and a win for fans seeking compelling narratives.
Kenny Omega: The Champion's Triumph
What makes this particularly fascinating is Kenny Omega's resurgence as the AEW World Champion. Nearly five years after his last reign, Omega has once again reached the pinnacle of All Elite Wrestling. His victory over MJF at the Beach Break edition of 'AEW Dynamite' was a momentous occasion, marking one of the biggest feel-good moments of the year. Omega's evolution as a wrestler is evident; he has refined his style, focusing on creating those iconic moments that define champions. His ability to adapt to the age factor and deliver a vicious performance in the dying moments of the match is a testament to his skill. As the champion, Omega opens up a world of possibilities for future storylines, and I, for one, am excited to see how his reign unfolds.
Baron Corbin: The Return of the Big Ass-Kicker
One thing that immediately stands out is the return of Baron Corbin. WWE's decision to bring him back is, in my opinion, a mistake. Corbin is a big ass-kicker, a personality and size combination that WWE seems to be lacking these days. His return booking may be questionable, but his presence in the ring is undeniable. Corbin's character, a blend of indie wrestling and MLW, was always destined for WWE. His return is a win for fans seeking a fresh, entertaining presence in the company. While I have issues with his booking, there's no denying that Corbin is a force to be reckoned with, and his return is a welcome addition to the WWE roster.
Sami Zayn: A Transition Too Far
From my perspective, Sami Zayn's nine-day reign as WWE Champion was a transition too far. A gut punch for the 'Ride-or-Dies', Zayn's title run lacked the impact and storytelling that a world championship should have. His loss to CM Punk, of all people, and the subsequent 'mental health break' leave him in a confusing position. With no clear direction for SummerSlam, Zayn's future in the main event picture is uncertain. While I understand the need for transitional reigns, Zayn's stint as champion fell flat, and he can't be anything but a loser this week. It's a shame, as he has the potential to be a compelling champion, but this week, he simply didn't deliver.
Konosuke Takeshita: A Tough Loss in NJPW
A detail that I find especially interesting is Konosuke Takeshita's performance in New Japan Pro Wrestling. His loss to Yota Tsuji in the G1 Climax opening night was a tough blow, especially considering Takeshita's previous victory over Tsuji. The introduction of Tsuji's new finisher, the Fire Blaster, adds an intriguing layer to their rivalry. Takeshita's reign as AEW International Champion ended abruptly, and his focus now shifts to NJPW. While he will likely make up the lost points, the back-to-back losses present an uphill struggle for 'The Alpha'. It's a reminder that the G1 Climax is a grueling tournament, and Takeshita's resilience will be tested.
AEW's Championship Overload
What many people don't realize is the burden of AEW's copious number of championships. With five singles men's titles, including the ROH Champion Bandido, and additional ROH belts, the company is facing a challenge in maintaining the significance of each title. While the AEW World Championship stands out, the other titles sometimes feel inferior. The focus on multiple championships can lead to a diluted sense of importance, and it's a delicate balance for AEW to maintain. Personally, I think AEW should consider streamlining its championships to maintain their impact and excitement.
Conclusion: A Week of Contrasting Fortunes
In conclusion, the week of July 13, 2026, was a week of contrasting fortunes in professional wrestling. From the Bloodline storyline's refreshing twist to Kenny Omega's triumphant return, the week offered a mix of compelling narratives and disappointing moments. As an expert commentator, I find myself reflecting on the impact of these events and speculating on their implications. The winners and losers of this week serve as a reminder that in the world of wrestling, fortunes can change in an instant, and the journey to the top is never easy.
