WWE Payback 2023: All Predicted Winners And Losers For This Saturday’s PPV
Payback is an apt title for this Saturday’s WWE pay-per-view event, as numerous top stars aim to settle scores in a variety of match types. The event, hosted at the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, promises high-octane action featuring a steel cage match, a street fight, and several title bouts. With rivalries coming to a head, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Here’s what the CBS Sports experts are predicting.
2023 WWE Payback Viewing Information
- Date: Saturday, Sept. 2
- Location: PPG Paints Arena — Pittsburgh
- Start time: 8 p.m. ET (kickoff show starts at 7 p.m.)
- Watch live: Peacock
Heavy Hitters: Seth Rollins vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
World Heavyweight Championship
The dynamics of the match are electrifying, especially after Nakamura turned heel and began to exploit Rollins’ back injury. Nakamura’s shift to cutting promos in his native language has given a new dimension to his character. However, the chances of him taking the championship away from Rollins are slim, given his current status as a plug-and-play roster member.
Predicted Winner: Seth Rollins retains the title.
A Battle of Powerhouses: Rhea Ripley vs. Raquel Rodriguez
Women’s World Championship
Rhea Ripley has shown considerable growth since her first title reign and seems more prepared than ever. Rodriguez, while powerful, hasn’t been built up enough to pose as a top-tier champion. Ripley’s alliance with Dominik Mysterio and Damian Priest could hint at future storylines.
Predicted Winner: Rhea Ripley retains the title.
Tag Team Turmoil: Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn vs. Damian Priest & Finn Balor
Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship
The tag division has been picking up steam, and Owens & Zayn have been at the forefront. The dynamics within team Judgment Day (Priest & Balor) are worth keeping an eye on. Despite the recent losses, a win could realign Balor’s trajectory and add some much-needed dynamism to the group.
Predicted Winner: Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn retain the titles, but don’t discount Judgment Day for a potential upset.
High-Flying Action: Rey Mysterio vs. Austin Theory
United States Championship
Rey Mysterio’s experience and versatility make him a safe choice for the mid-card title. Austin Theory had a brief but unimpressive U.S. title run and would benefit more from a step back at this point.
Predicted Winner: Rey Mysterio retains the title.
Cage Clash: Becky Lynch vs. Trish Stratus
Steel Cage Match
This feud has kept fans at the edge of their seats for months, but it’s time for a resolution. With Becky Lynch being a full-time roster member and Stratus having limited in-ring capabilities, it’s evident where this is headed.
Predicted Winner: Becky Lynch wins.
Showstopper: LA Knight vs. The Miz
LA Knight has steadily been gaining traction and it’s high time WWE capitalizes on it. His feud with The Miz has been entertaining but needs a decisive ending to elevate Knight’s status.
Predicted Winner: LA Knight wins.
The WWE Payback 2023 event promises to be a thrilling chapter in the book of WWE history. While many matches seem predictable, wrestling is a world where anything can happen. Whether it’s a heel turn, a surprise cash-in, or a shock win, Payback could alter the WWE landscape in many ways. Keep an eye out for potential upsets and moments that could steal the show.
