Payback Predictions: Which Midcard Title Match Will Be Better?

Over the past few weeks, WWE has surprisingly done a good job finally developing the midcard picture. In fact, one of the champions – Sheamus – is a former multi-time world champion. His resume helps boost the prestige of the title back to where it should be throughout its nearly 40-year lineage.

The Intercontinental Champion – Bad News Barrett – has used his new character in his favor to distinguish this title reign from his previous ones as a member of the Corre and a bare knuckle fighter.

The feuds have formulated differently, but both spark an interest in the midcard league that is long overdue. For Sheamus, the United States Championship was crowned after winning a 20-man battle royal. Sheamus proved that it was not a fluke after defeating former champion Dean Ambrose on an episode of SmackDown. Then, former US Champion Cesaro found a perfect opportunity to reclaim the title by engaging in brawls against the Celtic Warrior. With his "Paul Heyman Guy" influence, which led to a pinfall victory on an episode of Raw, he is now the No.1 contender.

For Barrett, his character first started as having annoying cameo appearances beside the announcer's table. With strikes already distributed due to his previous failed gimmicks, many thought this was just another one that will flop. However, his ground podium turned into an elevating podium, and he gained the interest of the fans by interrupting non-engaging matches. As a result, he was primed for another Intercontinental Championship reign. To determine a No. 1 contender, Raw hosted a Beat the Clock challenge, in which RVD won. Since then, the interaction between Barrett and RVD has revolved around Barrett distracting RVD in his matches.

So, out of the two matches scheduled for Payback, which one will be better? Sound off below, and voice your opinion on the Pancakes and Powerslams show Tuesday evening at 11pm EST on Blog Talk Radio.

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