The highly anticipated event in sports entertainment, WrestleMania 39, is here. Taking place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, the two-night extravaganza begins on Saturday with a lineup of exciting matches.
The first night of WrestleMania 39 will feature seven matches, ranging from a clash between father and son to a battle between a social media sensation and one of the top wrestlers of this generation. There’s something for every wrestling fan on the card, including the return of John Cena as he goes up against Austin Theory for the United States championship.
But the most anticipated match of the night is the epic tag team title showdown between The Usos and the team of Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens. Zayn has been involved in The Bloodline storyline for months, but the dynamic shifted when he betrayed Owens and turned against Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble, leading to this intense matchup between the four competitors.
CBS Sports’ wrestling experts have analyzed the entire card and shared their predictions for each match on Night 1 of WrestleMania 39. Let’s see their projections for the event.
WrestleMania 39 Night 1 predictions
Undisputed Tag Team Championship — The Usos (c) vs. Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn
According to CBS Sports’ wrestling experts, it would be best for WWE to take all titles off The Bloodline by having Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn win this match. This decision would reward the babyfaces who have gained tremendous popularity among fans in recent months. Zayn’s involvement with The Bloodline and subsequent breakup has generated significant interest, making him a red-hot competitor. By granting Zayn and Owens the tag team titles, WWE can continue the storyline beyond the championship stage. Pick: Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn win the titles— Brent Brookhouse (also Shakiel Mahjouri)
SmackDown Women’s Championship — Charlotte Flair (c) vs. Rhea Ripley
Rhea Ripley earned a title shot by winning the Royal Rumble. Although it is unusual for a Raw superstar to challenge for the SmackDown Women’s Championship, the history between Ripley and Flair justifies this match. The experts believe that Ripley should come out on top and capture the title, allowing her to embark on another run with a major championship. Pick: Rhea Ripley wins the title — Brookhouse (also Mahjouri)
United States Championship — Austin Theory (c) vs. John Cena
While the build-up for this match has been lackluster, the experts think that Austin Theory will retain the United States Championship. Considering John Cena’s busy schedule in Hollywood, it appears unlikely that he will become the champion. The experts believe that Theory will win with some form of interference or controversy. Pick: Austin Theory retains the title — Mahjouri (also Brookhouse)
Seth Rollins vs. Logan Paul
Seth Rollins is expected to defeat Logan Paul in this match. Rollins is a highly skilled wrestler and will benefit more from a victory over Paul, who is considered a special attraction regardless of wins or losses. Despite losing the build-up to the match, Rollins is predicted to regain momentum and remain a significant player in the WWE. Pick: Seth Rollins wins — Brookhouse (also Mahjouri)
Trish Stratus, Lita & Becky Lynch vs. Damage CTRL
The experts differ in their predictions for this match. While Damage CTRL has been inconsistently booked and has had a losing record against its opponents, some experts believe that they will emerge victorious. However, others argue that Trish Stratus, Lita, and Becky Lynch will win. Ultimately, it comes down to whether WWE plans to establish Damage CTRL as a dominant force after WrestleMania. Pick: Trish Stratus, Lita & Becky Lynch win — Mahjouri (also Brookhouse)
Rey Mysterio vs. Dominik Mysterio
The experts have differing views on this match as well. Rey Mysterio is the logical choice to win, given his experience and upcoming induction into the WWE Hall of Fame. However, some experts argue that Dominik Mysterio should win as it would benefit his character development and create an intriguing story moving forward. In the end, the experts are split on this match. Pick: Rey Mysterio wins — Brookhouse
While many believe that Rey Mysterio should defeat his son, Dominik Mysterio, at WrestleMania, some experts think otherwise. They feel that Dominik should win, considering Rey’s career is winding down and a victory for the younger Mysterio could have a positive impact on his career. Regardless of the outcome, Dominik’s progress in his new role as a wrestler has been impressive. Pick: Dominik Mysterio wins — Mahjouri
Braun Strowman & Ricochet vs. The Street Profits vs. Alpha Academy vs. The Viking Raiders
The experts predict that Braun Strowman and Ricochet will come out on top in this match. These teams have been presented well on television, especially Strowman and Ricochet, who have showcased a strong dynamic. With Strowman’s physical prowess and Ricochet’s in-ring talent, the experts believe that they will secure the victory. Pick: Braun Strowman & Ricochet win — Mahjouri (also Brookhouse)
