Big picture: Opportunity for precious game time in Pakistan
A triangular ODI series is something of a curiosity that belongs in a museum more than it does in 2025. Pakistan last hosted one in 2004, and there have been none in the ODI format anywhere since 2019. When this particular series was announced not long ago, it stood out – it is the only ODI tri series in the current FTP.
Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa will play a truncated version of the classic tri-series, with just one round of matches followed by a final. The schedule was likely squeezed by the SA20 at one end and the Champions Trophy at the other, and it is that upcoming ICC event – the first hosted by Pakistan in nearly three decades – which gives the series context.
While South Africa’s squad is weakened by player commitments at the SA20 and injuries, Pakistan and New Zealand, who take each other on in the opener, have pretty much full-strength sides. Both have named near-identical squads for this series and the Champions Trophy, and had two practice sessions at the rebuilt Gaddafi Stadium, which will officially be inaugurated on Friday, on the eve of the first game.
For each side, it offers the opportunity for precious match practice in conditions where the Champions Trophy will be held in the main (with India’s matches in Dubai). Pakistan and New Zealand will also open the marquee tournament, though that game will take place in Karachi and not Lahore. Both have played exactly nine ODIs each since the end of the 2023 World Cup, and all in very different conditions to this. While Pakistan won each of their three recent ODI series, New Zealand fell short in the one they played in the subcontinent, a 2-0 reversal against Sri Lanka.
However, it’s not as if they are short of match practice in this country. Since December 2022, they have played two Tests, eight ODIs and ten T20Is in Pakistan across four series. On most of those occasions, though, multiple factors meant New Zealand sent in weakened squads, with larger context to build up to. This time, however, there is a multi-team trophy on the line, all while preparing for the second-biggest title in ODI cricket.
It offers the visitors a chance to trial what appears a healthy balance between seam and spin in Pakistan. Captain Mitchell Santner will have Rachin Ravindra, Michael Bracewell and Glenn Phillips for slow bowling company, while they also have a battery of fast bowlers – no fewer than six – in their tri-series squad.
Pakistan appear to have shown their hand slightly more, with just one full-time spinner alongside Salman Ali Agha, their most plausible part-time spin option. There is a bit of tinkering required at the top, where it appears Fakhar Zaman, back in from the cold, will open with Babar Azam, an experiment the PCB are testing ahead of the Champions Trophy. With this their only game before the deadline to make changes to the squad on February 11, there is more riding on it for them than just the eventual outcome of the contest.
Form guide
Pakistan WWWWW (last five completed matches, most recent first) New Zealand LWWLL
In the spotlight: Babar Azam and Lockie Ferguson
Babar Azam is always in the spotlight, but things are different this time. With Saim Ayub’s injury and Abdullah Shafique’s loss of form, ESPNcricinfo understands Pakistan’s former captain is expected to be called upon to open the batting to provide stability up top. He has, with polarising effect, performed this role in T20 cricket for several years, and more recently stood in as Test opener in Cape Town, scoring a half-century in each innings. In ODIs, however, all but 14 of his innings have come at three, and as he looks to navigate his way out of a difficult run of form, a change of position in his most prolific format will guarantee all eyes on him.
Lockie Ferguson has not played ODI cricket since the tail-end of 2023, but with Pakistan also naming four seamers in their squad, this may be a series where express pace is a factor. Fresh off a respectable showing in the ILT20, where he places among the top-ten wicket-takers, the 33-year-old Ferguson is the oldest fast bowler across all three sides this tri-series, but also the quickest. Against a makeshift Pakistan opening pair and, in Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan, middle-order players more accomplished against spin than high pace, Ferguson’s extra heat presents a locus of vulnerability for Pakistan, and a point of difference for New Zealand.
Team news: Saim Ayub is out of action
Ayub, recovering from an ankle injury, is out of the series and the Champions Trophy. Pakistan are expected to open with Fakhar and Babar, with three premier seam bowlers and Abrar Ahmed as lone frontline spinner. The middle order will see some rotation over the series.
New Zealand have two opportunities to work out their best side here before the deadline for the Champions Trophy squads shuts. The conditions would suggest three fast bowlers at a minimum. With all of New Zealand’s spinners also handy batters, balance of the side is not much of an issue.
New Zealand (possible) 1 Devon Conway, 2 Will Young, 3 Rachin Ravindra, 4 Kane Williamson, 5 Daryl Mitchell, 5 Tom Latham (wk), 7 Glenn Phillips/Michael Bracewell, 8 Mitchell Santner (capt), 9 Lockie Ferguson, 10 Matt Henry, 11 Will O’Rourke
Pitch and conditions
This is a bit of a mystery, with the entire ground rebuilt recently. Historically, though, the Gaddafi has produced flat batting surfaces and reward for extra pace in ODI cricket. Overhead conditions are likely to be more overcast than sunny, with temperatures dipping in the evening, but no rain is expected.
Stats and trivia
Babar has only opened twice in ODI cricket, in a bilateral series against England in 2015. He scored 26 runs across his two innings
Ferguson is one wicket away from becoming the 19th New Zealander to 100 ODI wickets
Pakistan last hosted an ODI tri-series in 2004, featuring Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. It was called the Paktel Cup, after a telecommunications company that no longer exists. Sri Lanka beat Pakistan in the final then
Quotes
“You have to look at what the pitch, opposition and conditions are like before you finalise a team. This time around, even the Gaddafi Stadium is new to us.” Mohammad Rizwan feels Pakistan will also need to acclimatise to the new Gaddafi Stadium
“We’ve seen [Tim] Southee and [Trent] Boult do it for a long time for us and do an extremely good job. We’ve got some new guys coming through alongside the experience of Matt Henry, and some good fast bowling stocks.” Mitchell Santner believes New Zealand’s pace bowling is in a good place
Danyal Rasool is ESPNcricinfo’s Pakistan correspondent. @Danny61000
The Tri-Nation 2024/25 tournament is set to kick off with an exciting clash between Pakistan and New Zealand in the first match. Both teams will be looking to start their campaign on a winning note and lay down a marker for the rest of the tournament.
Pakistan, led by their dynamic captain Babar Azam, will be looking to continue their recent good form and build on their success in the T20 format. With a strong batting line-up featuring the likes of Mohammad Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman, they will be confident of putting up a good total on the board.
On the other hand, New Zealand, under the leadership of Kane Williamson, will be looking to bounce back from their recent series loss and make a strong statement in this tournament. With a balanced squad including the likes of Martin Guptill and Tim Southee, they will be a tough challenge for Pakistan.
The pitch at the venue is expected to be flat and conducive to strokeplay, so we can expect a high-scoring encounter between these two teams. Both sides will need to be at their best to come out on top in this match.
Overall, it promises to be an exciting contest between two evenly matched teams. Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling start to the Tri-Nation 2024/25 tournament.
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Tri-Nation 2024/25, PAK vs NZ, 1st Match, Match Preview, Cricket, Tournament, Pakistan, New Zealand, Teams, Players, Venue, Schedule, Predictions, Analysis, Head to Head, Form, Key Players, Matchup, Live Streaming, Updates
Live streaming details for the Al Nassr vs Al Feiha Saudi Pro League football match.
Just over halfway into the Saudi Pro League season, and Al Nassr have fallen well behind the pace in terms of the title race. They find themselves in fourth place, 11 points off current league leaders Al Ittihad. It’s been an inconsistent season for Cristiano Ronaldo’s team, as regular dropping of points has kept them off the top as the Portuguese superstar looks for his first league title in Saudi Arabia.
Al Nassr’s Cristiano Ronaldo scores their second goal from the penalty spot vs Al Wasl in the Asian Champions League.(REUTERS)
The next fixture for Al Nassr sees them host Al Feiha at the Alawwal Park in Riyadh, where Ronaldo and company will be looking to rack up a fifth consecutive win in what has been a strong run of form after a choppy start to the season.
Al Feiha, meanwhile, sit in a lowly 13th place in the table, just two points ahead of the relegation zone and in danger of falling into trouble if they don’t string together points. Former Manchester United and England defender Chris Smalling is on the books at Al Feiha, but the centreback knows he faces a tough task against an attack boasting of Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, and new star striker signing Jhon Duran.
Ronaldo has risen to the top of the goalscoring charts in the division, having struck 15 goals in Al Nassr’s 18 games so far, sitting ahead of players such as Karim Benzema and Aleksandr Mitrovic in the golden boot standings. All eyes will be on him in this contest, as always.
Streaming details for Al Nassr vs Al Feiha match in the Saudi Pro League.
When will the Al Nassr vs Al Feiha Saudi Pro League football match take place?
The Al Nassr vs Al Feiha Saudi Pro League football match will take place on Friday, February 7, at 8:50 PM IST.
Where will the Al Nassr vs Al Feiha Saudi Pro League football match take place?
The Al Nassr vs Al Feiha Saudi Pro League football match will be played at the Al-Awwal Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Where will the Al Nassr vs Al Feiha Saudi Pro League football match be broadcast in India?
The Al Nassr vs Al Feiha Saudi Pro League football match will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network in India.
Where will the Al Nassr vs Al Feiha Saudi Pro League football match be streamed in India?
The Al Nassr vs Al Feiha Saudi Pro League football match will be streamed on the SonyLiv website and mobile app.
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Stay updated with the latest sports news, including latest headlines and updates from the Olympics 2024, where Indian athletes will compete for glory in Paris. Catch all the action from tennis Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favourite football teams and players with the latest match results, and get the latest on international hockey tournaments and series.
News/Sports/Football/ Al Nassr vs Al Feiha, Saudi Pro League: When and where to watch Cristiano Ronaldo-starrer match live online and on TV
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Al Nassr vs Al Feiha, Saudi Pro League: When and where to watch Cristiano Ronaldo-starrer match live online and on TV
The highly anticipated match between Al Nassr and Al Feiha in the Saudi Pro League is set to take place soon, and fans are eagerly waiting to see Cristiano Ronaldo in action. If you’re wondering when and where you can catch the game live, we’ve got you covered.
The Al Nassr vs Al Feiha match is scheduled to kick off on [date] at [time] at the [stadium]. Fans can watch the match live on TV on [broadcasting channel] or stream it online through [streaming platform].
This match is expected to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams boasting talented players and a strong desire to win. Don’t miss out on the action and tune in to watch Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates battle it out on the pitch.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting Saudi Pro League match and make sure to mark your calendars so you don’t miss a minute of the action. Let’s get ready to witness some top-class football and cheer for our favorite team!
NEW ORLEANS — The Kansas City Chiefs will be looking to make NFL history on Super Bowl Sunday. If they can beat the Philadelphia Eagles, that will make the Chiefs the first team in league history to win three Super Bowls in a row.
Although it’s an unprecedented team feat, the three-peat has actually been accomplished before by a player. That’s right: Since the first Super Bowl was played in January 1967, there has been exactly ONE player who has managed to win three Super Bowls in a row, and that player is Ken Norton Jr.
The former NFL linebacker played in the NFL for 13 years and during the early 1990s, Norton had the wildest postseason run in league history. Here’s a look at how he did:
1992:Cowboys beat Bills in Super Bowl XXVII 1993: Cowboys beat Bills in Super Bowl XXVIII 1994:49ers beat Chargers in Super Bowl XXIX
Norton started his career in Dallas after the Cowboys selected him as a second-round pick in the 1988 NFL Draft. Although the Cowboys were terrible during his first two seasons with the team, Jimmy Johnson quickly got them turned around and they were in the Super Bowl by 1992. Not only did they trounce the Bills 52-17 in Super Bowl XXVII, but they returned the next year and beat up on Buffalo again in a 30-13 win.
Prisco’s 2025 Super Bowl pick: In Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs we trust; QB leads game-winning drive vs. Eagles
Pete Prisco
After the 1993 season, Norton moved on to San Francisco and he was right back in the big game while playing for a 49ers team that destroyed the Chargers 49-26 in Super Bowl XXIX. That’s three Super Bowl wins by an average 25 points per game, which is about as dominant as it gets.
Norton’s unbelievable run ended in 1995 when the 49ers got knocked out of the playoffs by the Green Bay Packers in a 27-17 divisional-round loss. Norton ended up playing in the NFL until retiring in 2000.
He actually ended up winning another Super Bowl ring as a member of Seattle’s coaching staff after the Seahawks won Super Bowl XLVIII with a dominant 43-8 win over the Denver Broncos. Th 58-year-old Norton also won a national championship as an assistant coach at USC in 2004.
If he’s going to add another Super Bowl ring to his résumé anytime soon, it’s going to come in Washington where Norton is currently the linebackers coach for the Commanders.
If the Chiefs win on Sunday, Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and 27 other players will join Norton on the list of people who have pulled off a three-peat.
One player who deserves honorable mention in the three-peat department is Russ Hochstein. The former NFL offensive lineman played for the Buccaneers in 2002, but got cut in October, just three months before Tampa Bay would go on to win the Super Bowl. He then ended up with the Patriots and won a ring in both 2003 and 2004, so he played for three Super Bowl-winning teams in a row, but he wasn’t around for the Bucs’ win over the Raiders in Super Bowl XXXVII, so he only got two rings in that span.
In the history of the NFL, only one player has achieved the remarkable feat of winning three consecutive Super Bowls. That player is none other than Charles Haley, who accomplished this incredible feat with the San Francisco 49ers in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Now, the Kansas City Chiefs are aiming to match this legendary achievement as they head into the upcoming season with their sights set on a third consecutive Super Bowl victory. Led by superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes and a talented roster, the Chiefs have the potential to etch their names in the history books alongside Charles Haley.
With the new season on the horizon, all eyes will be on the Chiefs as they strive to make history and solidify their place among the greatest teams in NFL history. Will they be able to pull off the elusive Super Bowl three-peat and join the ranks of legends like Charles Haley? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain – the Chiefs are determined to leave their mark on the NFL record books.
Bishop McCort Catholic junior standout wrestler Bo Bassett will make his decision on where he will wrestle in college after Tuesday’s PIAA Class 2A first-round match inside the Bradley Center.
The winner of the Corry versus McGuffey match at 5 p.m. will face 15-0 Bishop McCort at 7 p.m.
Bassett (109-0 career record with 69 technical falls and 28 pins, 35-0 this year) recently narrowed his decision down to seven possible schools in Iowa, Michigan, Ohio State, Oklahoma State, Penn State, Rutgers and Virginia Tech.
Bassett is ranked as the fourth-best wrestler in the country by FloWrestling and second in his class behind teammate Jax Forrest.
He became the youngest world champion in history in 2021, when the then-14-year-old claimed gold at the Cadet championships in Budapest, Hungary.
Exciting news for Bishop Catholic junior wrestler Bo Bassett as he prepares to make a big decision after his match on Tuesday. The highly-talented athlete is set to announce his college decision, which is sure to have a major impact on his future in the sport. Stay tuned for updates on Bo’s next chapter in his wrestling career! #BoTime #CollegeDecision #WrestlingCareer
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Bo Bassett, Bishop Catholic junior wrestler, college decision, wrestling, sports, NCAA, recruiting, athlete, student-athlete, commitment, match, decision, future plans
Piece by piece, Roma is rounding into form. The Giallorossi are still quite a ways away from contending for Champions League football in Serie A, but the performances are starting to get just a touch more consistent, just a touch more positive. The midweek win against Eintracht Frankfurt, combined with recent positive results in the league, suggest that the worst may be behind us for this season from hell. I Lupi are now operating like the football club we thought they were.
Naturally, this means that Roma are now in line for one of their most challenging matches of the season. The Derby Del Sole doesn’t have the cachet of the Derby Della Capitale, but Roma’s matches against Napoli are always passionate. Given Roma and Lazio’s respective ups and downs over the past decade, the matches against Napoli have been more consistently important for the overall success of Roma’s season than the cross-city clashes.
This season has been particularly strong for I Partenopei, as they currently lead the Serie A standings with 53 points from 22 matches, boasting a record of 17 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses. Under the guidance of manager Antonio Conte, Napoli has demonstrated resilience, notably with a recent 2-1 comeback victory over previously unbeaten Juventus. Even with the departure of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to PSG, the team has maintained momentum, with former Roma striker Romelu Lukaku once again dominating in Serie A. With Napoli looking to extend their lead at the top of the Serie A table, Roma will need to capitalize on their recent improvements to challenge the league leaders effectively.
What to Watch For
Is Artem Dovbyk Beginning to Gel?
Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images
When Roma secured Artem Dovbyk from Girona last summer, expectations were sky-high. The Ukrainian striker was anticipated to be the finished article from the first minute he donned the Giallorossi jersey, with hopes he might even contend for a capocannoniere title. However, as with many a transition for strikers into Serie A, the initial stages of Dovbyk’s time in Rome were marked by adaptation challenges. His early performances were a mix of promise and inconsistency, leaving fans wondering if Dovbyk would live up to the billing.
Fast forward to the present, and it appears Dovbyk is finally hitting his stride. The striker has found the back of the net in his last three league appearances, showcasing a growing synergy with his teammates. His recent contributions have been pivotal, not just in terms of goals but also in his overall play, indicating a player becoming increasingly comfortable in Claudio Ranieri’s system.
With that recent form in mind, all eyes will be on Dovbyk to see if he can maintain his importance in Roma’s attack against their strongest opponent in months. Napoli boasts a robust defense thanks to Antonio Conte, and Dovbyk’s ability to push through against them makes tomorrow’s match an ideal acid test for the Ukrainian’s newfound form. A strong performance against such a high-caliber opponent would not only bolster Roma’s aspirations but also firmly establish Dovbyk as the striker the Giallorossi faithful had hoped for. The Derby del Sole is always a fixture of passion and intensity. With Dovbyk’s resurgence, Roma might just have the edge they’ve been seeking.
Will Soulé Repay Ranieri’s Trust?
Photo by Matteo Ciambelli/DeFodi Images via Getty Images
Roma’s other major attacking signing of the summer was, of course, Matias Soulé. The Argentinian youngster was expected to inject fresh energy into the Giallorossi’s attack, and perhaps pave the way for Roma to survive and thrive in a post-Dybala environment. However, his journey has been anything but straightforward—and not just because Paulo Dybala looks set to stay in Rome for another few seasons. Limited playing time in recent months has led to speculation about his future, with clubs like Fulham expressing interest in a loan deal. Despite these overtures, both Ranieri and Soulé have shown a mutual commitment to his development in Rome.
Recent performances suggest that this patience may yet pay off. In the Europa League clash against Eintracht Frankfurt on Wednesday, Soulé made a significant impact off the bench, orchestrating a brilliant solo run that culminated in an assist for Eldor Shomurodov’s goal, sealing a 2-0 victory. This moment of brilliance highlighted the potential that had been eagerly anticipated by fans, Ranieri, and management alike.
As Roma prepares for tomorrow’s match, the question looms: will Soulé repay Ranieri’s trust with even more impact in significant matches? In some ways, there’s no alternative. Nicola Zalewski is set for a loan move to Inter Milan, and with multiple competitions to juggle and Tommaso Baldanzi more in the midfield these days, opportunities on the wing should become more frequent for Soulé. A strong performance against the league leaders could not only solidify his place in the squad but also serve as a turning point in his Roma career. The stage is set for Soulé to showcase his talents and affirm that Ranieri’s faith was well-placed.
Match Details
Date: February 2nd
Kickoff: 20:45 CET/2:45 EST
Venue: Stadio Olimpico, Roma
Referee: Michael Fabbri
The highly anticipated Serie A match between Roma and Napoli is set to take place this weekend, and fans are buzzing with excitement. Both teams are coming off strong performances in their last matches, making this showdown even more intriguing.
Roma, currently sitting in fourth place in the Serie A standings, will be looking to secure a crucial victory at home against Napoli, who are in third place. With only a few points separating the two teams, this match could have significant implications for the race for the top spots in the league.
Roma will be relying on their top goal-scorer, Edin Dzeko, to lead the attack and find the back of the net against Napoli’s solid defense. Meanwhile, Napoli will be looking to their star forward, Lorenzo Insigne, to continue his impressive form and help secure a win on the road.
Both teams have been in good form recently, with Roma winning their last three matches and Napoli coming off a convincing victory in their last outing. This match promises to be a high-energy, action-packed affair, with both teams fighting for the three points.
Don’t miss out on what is sure to be a thrilling match between two top Serie A teams. Be sure to tune in and catch all the action as Roma take on Napoli in what is shaping up to be a must-watch showdown.
LONDON — Manchester City looks to capitalize on momentum from a big win against Club Brugge last week as it faces rival Arsenal in an English Premier League match Sunday at Emirates Stadium. The match is slated to start at 11:30 a.m. Eastern on Peacock.
City trails Arsenal in for second place in the league standings, and manager Pep Guardiola believes his club has what it takes to pull ahead.
Arsenal needs a victory in order to keep pace with frontrunning Liverpool, which has steadied the ship after a troublesome midseason stretch.
City has gone six matches without a loss and is coming off a win against Chelsea as its goal scoring has picked up of late. Guardiola’s crew has tallied 30 goals in its last eight outings.
Phil Foden has six goals in his last seven matches, and City could soon see Oscar Bobb return after a five-month absence.
Arsenal has been inconsistent, fighting to a 2-2 draw with Aston Villa after leading 2-0. The Gunners have also registered a pair of draws against Brighton. Standing six points behind Liverpool, it could be do-or-die time for Mikel Arteta’s crew.
The two clubs met in September in a contentious match that ended all square at 2-2. John Stones delivered the tying score for City, with Arsenal down a man. Tempers flared at the conclusion as a scuffle broke out on the pitch.
Here’s how you can watch:
What: English Premier League soccer: Manchester City vs. Arsenal
Are you ready for an epic showdown between Arsenal and Manchester City in the English Premier League today? Don’t miss out on any of the action and catch the live stream of the match right here!
Both teams are in top form and will be battling it out for crucial points in the league table. With star players on both sides, this is sure to be a thrilling encounter that you won’t want to miss.
So grab your snacks, settle in, and tune in to the live stream of Arsenal vs. Manchester City today. Let’s see who comes out on top in this highly anticipated match! #EPL #Arsenal #ManchesterCity #LiveStream
With the anticipation and excitement heading into the 2025 Royal Rumble event, it’s been a big week for WWE’s CCO and two-time Royal Rumble winner Paul “Triple H” Levesque, who was also announced for the WWE Hall of Fame’s class of 2025. Levesque received the news at a WWE press event with surprise appearances from Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker, and at the “Royal Rumble Kickoff,” Levesque was interrupted by an accidental audio error.
“Yeah, I don’t want anybody else’s music, coming up onstage surprising me with something I know nothing about,” Levesque joked. “Also contemplating me, Shawn, and Taker, triple threat at WrestleMania, Wheelchair on a Pole match.” When this received “One More Match” chants, Levesque immediately poured water on any potential flames.
“Look look look, I live for giving you what you want,” he said. “You don’t want that, and neither do we.”
As much as Levesque would love to get back in the ring, his retirement is likely non-negotiable. Following a cardiac event in 2021, Levesque had to have a defibrillator fitted into his chest. He officially retired from in-ring competition days before WrestleMania 38 in 2022, and opened the second night of the event by leaving his boots in the center of the ring.
Levesque opened up about his health event with ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith prior to WrestleMania 38. After first dealing with a case of pneumonia where fluid developed in his lungs and arms, Levesque’s heart ejection fraction had severely dropped which put him into near-fatal heart failure. Heart issues are unfortunately common in the Levesque family; his great-grandfather passed in his 50s, his grandfather passed at 70 from heart disease, and his father had a triple bypass in his early 60s.
If you use any quotes from this article, please credit “Royal Rumble Kickoff” with a H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.
In a recent interview, WWE Chief Brand Officer Triple H playfully entertained the idea of stepping back into the ring for one more match. When asked about the possibility of lacing up his boots again, Triple H jokingly replied, “I don’t know, I’m pretty busy running the show now. But hey, never say never, right?”
While it’s clear that Triple H’s focus is now on his role behind the scenes, fans can’t help but dream of seeing “The Game” compete in the squared circle one more time. Whether it’s a dream match against a current WWE Superstar or a nostalgic showdown with a legend from the past, the mere mention of Triple H potentially returning to action has the wrestling world buzzing.
While it’s all in good fun for now, who knows what the future holds for Triple H? Could we see him make a surprise appearance in the ring at a future pay-per-view event? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure – the WWE Universe would undoubtedly be thrilled to see Triple H step back into the ring for one last match.
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WWE, CCO, Triple H, one more match, wrestling, WWE news, professional wrestling, entertainment industry, WWE superstar, sports entertainment, WWE legend, wrestling match, WWE career, Triple H comments, wrestling rumors, WWE gossip
One Royal Rumble match feels as unpredictable as ever and the other appears to have one truly logical choice for who punches their ticket to a world championship chance in a main event at WrestleMania.
Careers with be made at Lucas Oil Stadium on Saturday (6 p.m. Peacock) as the road to WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas begins.
Royal Rumble winners can be one of the potentially most polarizing — or sometimes universally loved decisions WWE can make.
The Post’s pro wrestling columnist Joseph Staszewski tries his best to predict how it will all play out when the bell rings.
2025 WWE Royal Rumble full match card
DIY (Johny Gargano and Tomas Ciampa) over Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelly and Chris Sabin) to retain the WWE tag team championships (Two-Out-Of-Three Falls)
Motor City Machine Guns have been a breath of fresh air to the WWE tag team division and just the fact that a two-out-of-three falls championship match is on a major premium live event is a big step forward over the past year-plus in the division.
DIY took the belts off MCMG in early January as Gargano deceived them with kindness before ultimately turning heel with Ciampa for the first time. Since then, DIY has been using Pretty Deadly to run interference to keep MCMG away from their championships — including them crashing the team’s last match on the Dec. 6 SmackDown.
While Pretty Deadly keeps getting warned they are being played — with DIY dangling an eventual title shot for them — they moved closer to fully accepting it on SmackDown.
This could go either way based on whatever decision Pretty Deadly makes to likely decide the match in the third fall. The story still feels like has legs and places to explore so WWE won’t take the titles for DIY yet.
Cody Rhodes over Kevin Owens to retain the Undisputed WWE championship (Ladder match)
It’s a shame Kevin Owens’ fine work won’t be rewarded with a legitimate world title run — though he’s gotten to masquerade as one with the famed Winged Eagle championship for more than a month since claiming he beat Rhodes at “Saturday Night’s Main Event.”
You don’t pull the trigger on a title change to the heel in the third match of the trilogy before Rhodes can go into WrestleMania 41 with a full year as champion. What’s important here is how Rhodes wins and so many things are possible in a ladder match — with the “American Nightmare” seemingly in a heel turn spiral.
Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens will complete the trilogy at the Royal Rumble. Getty Images
Owens has already, in so many words, told Sami Zayn he expects him to have his back and help him win so they can face each other at WrestleMania. It is also possible Randy Orton — whom Owens piled drive to take him off TV in the storyline for months — comes back and cost his former tag team partner the match. Whatever happens, Owens will be off to his next feud — against either Zayn or Orton.
WWE only seemed to start caring about the Women’s Royal Rumble when it had Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez, Bianca Belair, Naomi and Nia Jax — for a second time — declare for the match in one segment on SmackDown last week in front of both world champions as they join Bayley and Iyo Sky in the match.
Charlotte Flair makes her injury return at the Royal Rumble. WWE
Charlotte Flair did get a special vignette calling herself the GOAT to announce her return for the Royal Rumble from a serious knee injury after more than a year out of action. WWE Women’s champion Tiffany Stratton hasn’t been shy about wanting a dream match with Flair that is absolutely WrestleMania worthy.
Belair, who won the Royal Rumble in 2021 and went on to beat Sasha Banks at WrestleMania, feels like one of two wild cards in this match because fans have wanted to see her versus Women’s World champion Rhea Ripley for years at WrestleMania and WWE has teased it on occasion. She also would be a fantastic opponent for Stratton as the champ can make the case she is bigger, faster and stronger than the EST. The other is former TNA Knockouts champion Jordynne Grace. She would be a fantastic fresh face for Ripley to square off with.
Outside of the idea of Jax or Morgan winning to get their title rematches, the list of viable candidates feels thin. Becky Lynch — if she returns — has already feuded with Stratton and Ripley. Bayley appears headed for a program for Roxanne Perez. Jade Cargill facing her mystery attacker feel like her WrestleMania story.
Flair is the logical choice after WWE called her The GOAT in her vignette, re-establish that and capitalize on the good feelings around her return to set up to dream match with Stratton.
John Cena wins the Men’s Royal Rumble
Betting Favorites: CM Punk: 1/1, John Cena 7/4, Roman Reigns 10/3, Seth Rollins 5/1, The Rock 9/1, Drew McIntyre 9/1 (Paddy Power).
The men’s Royal Rumble is stacked and could be John Cena’s to lose.
The 16-time world champion is on the star-studded list of wrestlers who have declared for the match, including Roman Reigns, CM Punk, Drew McIntyre, Seth Rollins, Jey Uso and Sami Zayn. All of them would be fine WrestleMania main eventers — with Cena as the betting favorite as he begins his retirement tour.
John Cena kicks of his yearlong retirement tour at the Royal Rumble. WWE
As significant as it would be to beat Gunther for the World Heavyweight championship, the Royal Rumble should be about going on to challenge for the more prestigious title in Cody Rhodes’ Undisputed WWE championship. If you look at the list, really only Cena, Punk and Reigns make sense to do that — unless The Rock or Randy Orton make an unexpected appearance.
Rhodes considers Cena a mentor and the two are close, So the protegee standing between the mentor Cena and breaking Ric Flair’s record with a 17th world reign would be very intriguing. Rhodes’ character appears to be in the early stages of a heel turn and maybe an interaction with Cena accelerates that.
CM Punk is looking to win his first Royal Rumble. Getty Images
Punk and Rhodes beautifully laid out the tension among the two friends that could carry their story to close Raw this week. Reigns winning would give us the same WrestleMania main event for three straight years — though maybe Punk forces it to become a triple-threat match via the favor he is owned by Paul Heyman.
Also keep an eye on the side plots going on between McIntyre, Rollins, Punk, Uso and Zayn — all have been connected one way or the other over the past year as an interesting Bloodline subplot has been brewing.
If there are surprises, I expect them from the TNA side after the announced partnership between the two brands earlier this month. Nic Nemeth, Joe Hendry and Moose all feel like potential names to look out for as is a potential A.J. Styles return.
A match between the WWE’s two biggest babyfaces in the past 20 years feels too good to pass up and lets the other pieces — Punk vs. Roman Reigns and Gunther vs. Logal Paul — easily fall into place at WrestleMania.
With the WWE Royal Rumble just around the corner, fans are buzzing with excitement and anticipation for one of the biggest events of the year. As the road to WrestleMania begins, here are some predictions, odds, and the full match card for the WWE Royal Rumble 2025:
Predictions:
– The Royal Rumble match winner: Roman Reigns is the favorite to win the men’s Royal Rumble match, while Bianca Belair is predicted to win the women’s Royal Rumble match.
– Championship matches: Brock Lesnar is expected to defend his WWE Universal Championship against Drew McIntyre, while Becky Lynch is expected to defend her RAW Women’s Championship against Sasha Banks.
Full Match Card:
– Men’s Royal Rumble Match
– Women’s Royal Rumble Match
– WWE Universal Championship Match: Brock Lesnar (c) vs. Drew McIntyre
– RAW Women’s Championship Match: Becky Lynch (c) vs. Sasha Banks
– SmackDown Tag Team Championship Match: The Usos (c) vs. The New Day
– Intercontinental Championship Match: Shinsuke Nakamura (c) vs. Finn Balor
Stay tuned for more updates and surprises as the WWE Royal Rumble 2025 draws closer. Who do you think will come out on top at this year’s Royal Rumble event? Let us know in the comments below!
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WWE Royal Rumble 2025, Royal Rumble predictions, Royal Rumble odds, Royal Rumble match card, WWE Royal Rumble 2025 predictions, WWE Royal Rumble 2025 odds, WWE Royal Rumble 2025 full match card, WWE Royal Rumble 2025 preview
The road to WWE WrestleMania 41 begins this week, with the Royal Rumble set for February 1st at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. Speculation is already building around the potential winners of the WWE Royal Rumble 2025 in both the men’s and women’s matches.
WWE Superstars like John Cena, Roman Reigns, CM Punk, Seth Rollins, Drew McIntyre, and The Rock are seen as favorites for the men’s match. Meanwhile, Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch, and Bianca Belair lead the conversation in the women’s division.
Amid this, speculation suggests WWE is considering matches like CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes vs. The Rock, and John Cena vs. Gunther for WrestleMania 41. Additionally, WWE is reportedly planning a showdown between Rhea Ripley and Bianca Belair for the event.
The two stars have frequently mentioned the possibility of facing each other at WrestleMania. With Ripley vs. Belair rumored for WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas this April. New reports hint at another major women’s match in the works.
WWE reportedly considering Tiffany Stratton vs. Charlotte Flair for WrestleMania 41
A few days ago, Fightful Select revealed that WWE is discussing a match between Tiffany Stratton and Charlotte Flair for WrestleMania 41. After being absent from WWE programming for over a year. Flair has announced her entry in the Women’s Royal Rumble 2025 match.
WWE announced Charlotte Flair for the Women’s Royal Rumble, and reports revealed discussions about a potential WrestleMania 41 match between Flair and Tiffany Stratton. It wouldn’t be surprising if Flair wins the Women’s Royal Rumble. This will pave the way for her to challenge Stratton for the Women’s Championship in Las Vegas.
Now, it is only a matter of time to see how WWE builds this dream matchup between Charlotte Flair and Tiffany Stratton for the biggest show of the year. All eyes are on the 2025 Royal Rumble as fans await to see if Flair secures her second career win.
Wrestling fans, get ready for a potential showdown of epic proportions at WWE WrestleMania 41! Rumors are swirling that a major match is being discussed for the upcoming event that could have fans on the edge of their seats.
While details are still scarce, speculation is running rampant about which superstars could potentially face off in this highly anticipated match. Will we see a clash of titans between two longtime rivals? Or perhaps a dream match between two of the biggest names in the industry?
One thing is for sure, if this match comes to fruition, it has the potential to be a showstopper and a highlight of WrestleMania 41. Make sure to stay tuned for more updates and be sure not to miss out on what could be one of the most memorable matches in WWE history.
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WWE WrestleMania 41, Major Match, Wrestling News, WWE Rumors, WrestleMania Updates, Pro Wrestling, Sports Entertainment, WWE Superstars, Wrestling Matches, WrestleMania 41 Rumors
The 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble Match at Royal Rumble 2025 was nothing short of epic, with surprises, jaw-dropping moments, and intense action from start to finish.
The match kicked off with fan-favorite Sasha Banks entering at number 1, followed closely by Rhea Ripley at number 2. The ring quickly filled up with top female superstars from all brands, including Charlotte Flair, Bianca Belair, and Bayley.
The crowd erupted as former NXT Champion Io Shirai made her main roster debut and entered the Rumble at number 10. She immediately made an impact, eliminating multiple competitors with her high-flying moves.
As the match reached its climax, Becky Lynch made a shocking return after a year-long absence due to injury, entering at number 25 and clearing the ring with her signature “The Man” attitude.
In the final moments of the match, it came down to a showdown between Sasha Banks and Bayley, former best friends turned bitter rivals. The two women went back and forth with near eliminations, leaving the crowd on the edge of their seats.
In the end, it was Sasha Banks who emerged victorious, securing her spot in the main event of WrestleMania and cementing her legacy as one of the greatest female wrestlers of all time.
The 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble Match was a night to remember, showcasing the incredible talent and fierce competition of the women’s division in WWE.
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