AJ Styles will face two high-profile Superstars in his first defense of his newly-won WWE World Championship.
It was announced on "SmackDown Live" that the "Phenomenal One" will put the belt on the line against Dean Ambrose and John Cena in a Triple Threat Match on Oct. 9 at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, Calif.
Styles won the title Sunday night when he defeated "The Lunatic Fringe." It marked the first time in his illustrous career that Styles won the richest prize in the WWE.
While all three Superstars are top draws, only one can win. Here is our ranking of these combatants and how worthy they are to walk out of No Mercy with the WWE World Championship.
3) Dean Ambrose
The "Lunatic Fringe" was well-deserving of winning the gold at Money in the Bank, but he may be the least desirable potential winner out of the three main eventers. Ambrose's first run as WWE Champion was underwhleming and his character could use a tune-up. The WWE may want to consider a full-on heel turn in order to freshen things up. After a lackluster first run, there is really no good reason to hot shot the belt right back onto Ambrose.
2) John Cena
Love him or hate him, the "Cenation" leader's passion for the business is unparalleled. Cena is a veteran and has reached a point in his career where he can put on a great match with whomever he steps into the squared circle with. Cena has deserved to be the face of "SmackDown Live," but since his next reign will tie him for Ric Flair for the most World Championships all-time (16), it should happen at a much bigger event.
1) AJ Styles
The decision to put the belt on the "Phenomenal One" was a great idea as he deserved to be rewarded. Styles has been a fantastic edition to the WWE roster and could very well carry the Blue Brand over its "rival" "RAW." Styles has already notched several Match of the Year candidates since bursting onto the scene at the Royal Rumble back in January. The former TNA, ROH and NJPW standout has chemistry with everyone he steps into the ring with and thus, he should have a lengthy run rather than dropping the title so soon.
