Sport

WWE experts predict major shifts in Italian championship landscape

Analysts at CBS Sports outline likely outcomes for Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, and other top contenders in Turin

Author
Adrian Cole
Political Correspondent
Published
Draft
Source: CBS Sports · original

                        WWE Clash in Italy 2026 predictions, picks for each match scheduled for Sunday in Turin
Clash in Italy card features four title bouts with significant narrative implications

WWE is set to host its annual premier live event, Clash in Italy, in Turin on Sunday, 31 May 2026. The event card features five matches, four of which are contested for championships. According to predictions from CBS Sports wrestling experts Brent Brookhouse and Shakiel Mahjouri, the night is likely to produce decisive changes in the title picture, particularly for the World Heavyweight Championship.

The World Heavyweight Championship bout sees Roman Reigns defending against Jacob Fatu in a Tribal Combat match. Reigns previously defeated Fatu at Backlash using underhanded tactics, prompting Fatu to demand a rematch and continue his assault on Reigns and The Usos. Experts predict Jacob Fatu will win the title, arguing that losing the championship would add nuance to Reigns' character and revive The Bloodline storyline.

In the Undisputed WWE Championship match, Cody Rhodes defends against Gunther. The feud intensified after Gunther issued an open challenge to the SmackDown locker room and put Rhodes in a sleeper hold. Rhodes is also dealing with friend Sami Zayn, who allowed the attack to happen without intervening. Experts predict Rhodes will retain, citing his status as the franchise player and the lack of narrative steam in the feud.

The only non-title match on the card features Brock Lesnar facing Oba Femi in a rematch of their WrestleMania 42 bout. At WrestleMania, Femi defeated Lesnar quickly, leading to Lesnar retiring in the ring before attacking Femi to force a rematch. Experts predict Lesnar will win to set up a potential SummerSlam rubber match, noting that losing to Lesnar is not a damaging outcome for Femi.

On the women’s side, Rhea Ripley defends the Women’s WWE Championship against Jade Cargill, the woman she won the title from at WrestleMania 42. Experts predict Ripley will retain, viewing her as a decorated champion and major attraction rather than a transitional figure. Meanwhile, Becky Lynch defends the Women’s Intercontinental Championship against main roster newcomer Sol Ruca. Experts predict Sol Ruca will win the title to establish her as a star, leveraging her eye-catching offense.

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