WWE gossip column: Finn Balor in line for push, Batista Wrestlemania plans and more

The road to Wrestlemania is nearly upon us.

Most main-event Championship matches will be made clear after the men’s and women’s Royal Rumble takes place on January 27.

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Here are the latest WWE rumours circling the wrestling world.

Finn Balor in line for massive push

Finn Balor’s push was confirmed on last night’s Monday Night Raw taping when he beat Drew McIntyre, Baron Corbin and John Cena to become the new no1 contender for Brock Lesnar’s Universal Championship.

The Wrestling Observer’s Brian Alvarez confirmed The Demon’s push is in full swing. It’s a remarkable turnaround for the Irishman, who was used sparingly by WWE last year.

AJ Styles yet to sign new WWE contract

AJ Styles has been a workhorse for WWE since joining the company in 2016.

With his contract set to expire soon, it is believed that fresh terms would see the 41-year-old work part-time.

Styles is expected to sign a new deal with Vince McMahon’s empire despite interest from new wrestling promotion All Elite Wrestling.

WWE opens talks with Batista over huge Wrestlemania match

Seeds were planted when Batista taunted Triple H during the 1,000th episode of SmackDown in October. The Hollywood actor told The Game he’d done everything in WWE, “except beat me”.

Any plans for a showdown between the legendary pair were scuppered when Triple H tore his right pectoral muscle at WWE Crown Jewel. Now, the 14-time world champion is a doubt for Wrestlemania 35.

However, according to Slice Wrestling, discussions are underway with Batista for a possible match at The Show of Shows. The 49-year-old is set to shoot a new movie in February, which could impact WWE’s plans.

Lars Sullivan update

NXT star Lars Sullivan reportedly suffered an anxiety attack which caused him to miss several WWE house shows last week.

Rajah.com claims The Freak has not spoken to his employers since, forcing WWE to hold off on plans for a Wrestlemania feud with John Cena.

Sullivan was supposed to attack Cena to begin their Mania storyline in a segment, which would air next week, but McMahon “pulled the plug on that either this morning or last night”.

Andrade “Cien” Almas set for marquee Wrestlemania match 

Andrade “Cien” Almas’ main roster career has been uneventful since being called up from NXT last April.

Despite his excellent in-ring ability, he is still waiting for a title match on SmackDown. But that could change at this year’s Wrestlemania.

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Slice Wrestling reports “WWE officials have recognised Andrade ‘Cien’ Almas’ ability to perform in big match situations”.

The publications states WWE would like to showcase his in-ring skills in a ladder or title match, possibly for the United States Championship, at Wrestlemania 35.