As was seen on Sunday’s Royal Rumble PPV Pre-Show, WWE Superstar Mojo Rawley answered the United States Title Open Challenge from Bobby Roode.
It was reported yesterday on via Wrestling Observer that WWE originally had planned for Dolph Ziggler to return in that spot but plans were changed and he was pulled from the match. The report also stated that one other member of the roster was also considered for the match before ultimately deciding to go with Mojo Rawley instead.
The name of that other WWE Superstar who was considered for the match is now known. On today’s installment of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer reported that plans at one point Sunday were for Adam Cole to be the one to answer the challenge. WWE eventually changed the plan because they felt it ultimately wouldn’t be a good idea to have Adam Cole make his debut only to lose to Bobby Roode in under 8 minutes.
Instead, WWE opted to have Adam Cole come out as an entrant in the men’s Royal Rumble Match. Cole came out as a surprise as the 23rd entrant, and was eventually eliminated by a returning Rey Mysterio.
Cole lasted 6 minutes and 52 seconds in his first Royal Rumble Match.
