STEP UP: Jack Swagger & Rusev
Swagger has really hit his stride this year. Getting him away from Cesaro was a step in the right direction, and turning him babyface was the next logical step. People still remember the “All-American America” gimmick – complete with man in eagle costume – and WWE has cranked it up to 11 with Zeb Colter at his side.
I don’t mind that they came back to the Rusev and Swagger program. The well isn’t dry yet. Rusev crushed him at SummerSlam in a match that had way more buzz that I ever thought was capable for a non-title midcard program. Since then the Bulgarian Brute has legitimized himself against Mark Henry and Big Show – who are now both heel, by the way – and got a huge rub from being in the same ring as The Rock.
It helps when you only watch the Raw highlights, but I still enjoy this program. I like Swagger’s new intensity, and attempt to break everyone’s ankle. It’s not about pure patriotism anymore – it’s personal. He wants to take Rusev’s spot. Grab that brass ring. Will he win at TLC? Probably not. But it’s one of the few things WWE is doing that doesn’t put me to sleep, so I’ll take it.
