The Sami Zayn Ultimatum
The conclusion of the Royal Rumble PPV saw what can only be described as a masterpiece. The anticipation leading to this was phenomenal and a testament to how effective this entire story has been. Similarly to other well received moments such as CM Punks AEW debut and the return of Cody Rhodes to WWE, everybody that was tuned in knew what was coming but it took absolutely nothing away from the spectacle itself.
Whilst Zayn has always managed to keep himself relevant throughout his career by adapting his presentation, gimmick and general appeal, this entire ordeal with the Bloodline may turn out to be the most impactful and beneficial route he's ever dwindled upon. The perception of him has always been a positive one but now more so than ever. Zayn is in a unique spot though, in the sense that he isn't seemingly being given the perfect conclusion his performance demands. He'll be facing Roman Reigns at Elimination Chamber in Montreal which is destined to have an immense atmosphere, but the outcome feels obvious and it'll potentially lead to Zayn being in the Tag Title picture come Wrestlemania season, which isn't the ending this story deserves. It's rare, especially nowadays, that WWE can create a story with so much investment and emotional value and it needs to be treated with the upmost prestige.
Cody Rhodes, the Royal Rumble winner, is deserving of his spot at Wrestlemania regardless of whatever your opinion of him may be. His popularity is off the charts and him facing Roman is undoubtedly the money match. With Wrestlemania being a two night event though, it feels odd that Zayn doesn't get a chance to feature in one of the main events against Reigns. Having the two World Titles defended separately over the two nights would be wonderful and is far more of a meaningful conclusion for this saga. Ultimately though, it seems as if the final decision has been made regarding how this story ends and although it greatly disappoints me, I appreciate how much work Zayn and the Bloodline have put into telling a compelling and interesting story.