Sami Zayn has yet to capture a world title in WWE, although he has vied for the World Heavyweight Championship on SmackDown. He will compete in tonight’s number one contender match on Saturday Night’s Main Event. Facing obstacles like Randy Orton, Trick Williams, and Damian Priest, Zayn is making a significant push toward his dream of becoming world champion. Even if he doesn’t prevail in the Fatal Four-Way match, WWE plans to keep him involved in the world title picture.
According to Fightful Select, Zayn is being considered and "tentatively planned" for a world title match leading up to WrestleMania 42. His last shot at a world title was in February 2023 at Elimination Chamber, where he lost the Undisputed WWE Championship to Roman Reigns in Montreal, his hometown. While not featured in the world title scene since, Zayn remains a fan favorite. It seems likely that if he continues as a contender, he will face Drew McIntyre for the WWE Championship, especially considering their recent verbal exchanges on SmackDown following McIntyre’s victory over Cody Rhodes.
Zayn has yet to defeat McIntyre in singles competition, a fact highlighted repeatedly on WWE programming, suggesting the direction of his storyline. While a World Heavyweight Championship match against CM Punk could be exciting, it doesn’t make much sense for WWE to pit two of their top fan-favorite characters against each other.
WWE would be wise to craft another compelling Road to WrestleMania storyline, similar to those featuring Daniel Bryan and Cody Rhodes in the past. Sami Zayn embodies the perfect underdog narrative, with his history of not yet winning a world title and the ambition to become a Grand Slam champion. He has earned the audience’s support, standing out as a heroic figure in the Bloodline saga after Roman Reigns, appealing to fans with his perseverance and passion.
Many see Zayn as the best candidate to win the Royal Rumble on January 31st and challenge McIntyre at WrestleMania. There are rumors WWE might book another McIntyre vs. Rhodes match or include Jacob Fatu in a triple threat, but this would be a missed opportunity. Cody Rhodes shouldn’t remain the main title challenger endlessly when fresh stars like Zayn deserve their shot. If Zayn wins the Royal Rumble, he should not only challenge McIntyre but also capture the world title at WrestleMania to cement his legacy.
Fan Take: This development is huge for WWE fans because Sami Zayn embodies the underdog spirit that many love to rally behind, and his world title run could bring a fresh, emotionally compelling storyline. A crowning moment for Zayn at WrestleMania could reinvigorate WWE’s top tier and inspire the next generation of wrestlers and supporters alike.
