Analyzing WWE Crown Jewel with WWE 2K23's MyGM Mode

WWE Crown Jewel is scheduled to take place on November 4 in Saudi Arabia. Fans worldwide can tune in to watch at 10 am PT and 1 pm ET. Given the timing, it is likely that the recently announced pre-show match between Sami Zayn and JD McDonagh will not be included, so fans may want to tune in a bit earlier. The main event will feature Roman Reigns defending his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against LA Knight, which is expected to conclude the show. With several championship matches on the card, there is much speculation and discussion about the outcomes. It would be interesting to consider how these matches would play out in WWE 2K23's MyGM Mode, although it should be noted that these simulations do not serve as actual predictions for the show. In the game, certain match-ups are penalized if they do not fit into the designated Bruiser vs. Fighter, Cruiser vs. Giant, Specialist categories. Additionally, the in-game Triple H prefers to have at least one Hell in a Cell match. While Crown Jewel may only have one match that deviates from the traditional Singles format, it promises to be an emotionally charged event. It is still worth discussing the real-world scenarios leading up to each match and speculating on the eventual winners.

As of this writing, the confirmed match lineup for WWE Crown Jewel is as follows:

Pre-Show Match: Sami Zayn vs. JD McDonagh

Seth Rollins defends his World Heavyweight Championship against Drew McIntyre.

Rhea Ripley puts her Women's World Championship on the line in a Fatal Five-way match against Nia Jax, Shayna Baszler, Zoey Stark, and Raquel Rodriquez.

Rey Mysterio (c) vs. Logan Paul for the WWE United States Championship

Cody Rhodes vs. Damian Priest

John Cena vs. Solo Sikoa

Iyo Sky (c) vs. Bianca Belair for the WWE Women's Championship

Roman Reigns, accompanied by Paul Heyman, will defend his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against LA Knight. However, it should be noted that due to the limitations of WWE 2K23, not all of these matches can be fully replicated. Therefore, the simulated matches in WWE 2K23's MyGM Mode may differ from the actual matches scheduled for Crown Jewel.

- The matches were split between Raw and SmackDown on a random PLE.

- Every match had maximum rivalries with the sole exception of Cody Rhodes and Damian Priest, which ended prematurely.

Result:

- WWE 2K23 does not include Nia Jax, and Fatal Five-Way matches are not available in MyGM Mode. As a result, this match had to be modified to a fatal four-way without her, making it an inaccurate prediction.

- Despite the efforts of Paul Heyman and the Bloodline, they were unable to assist the Tribal Chief in his match against LA Knight.

-In case there are last-minute changes or additions, this was done to reflect the Crown Jewel match card as known on November 1.

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Sami Zayn vs. JD McDonagh

Pre-Show Match

What to Know Going Into this WWE Crown Jewel Match

Sami Zayn has been engaged in a long-standing feud with The Judgment Day. This pre-show match was arranged after an exhilarating promo on the October 30 episode of Raw. Despite Kevin Owens' absence, Zayn vowed to confront The Judgment Day at every opportunity, declaring that his "name is Rebellion!" On the other hand, McDonagh, although not an official member of The Judgment Day and currently more of a wannabe member and whipping boy, is set to face off against Zayn in a pre-show match, leading up to Crown Jewel.

WWE 2K23 Predictions

Sami Zayn wins, and truth be told, the WWE match has all the makings to be more highly rated than the game gives it.

WWE Crown Jewel Real-World Predictions

This WWE 2K23 prediction appears probable as Sami's victory would progress both their ongoing storylines. A triumph for Sami demonstrates his ability to confront The Judgment Day, even as a solo competitor, and validates his recent promos. A strong showing could pave the way for future rivalries and opportunities for championship titles in singles competition. Meanwhile, JD McDonagh's involvement in the WWE faction would undoubtedly draw the disapproval of The Judgment Day.

Seth Rollins vs. Drew McIntyre

World Heavyweight Championship

Ever since Seth Rollins assumed the role of the inaugural fighting champion for the World Heavyweight Championship, he has fearlessly embraced every opportunity to step into the ring. Following a grueling rivalry with Shinsuke Nakamura, during which Rollins' back endured constant targeting due to "injuries," Drew McIntyre stepped up to challenge him. The situation is quite straightforward: Rollins possesses the coveted gold, while McIntyre possesses an unwavering desire to claim it, all under fair and just conditions. This led to the match being set for Crown Jewel. The build-up to this encounter may not have been as relentless or savage as Rollins vs. Nakamura, yet it has featured intriguing discussions regarding McIntyre's affiliation with Rhea Ripley and The Judgment Day, along with some noteworthy promos leading up to the showdown.

What to Know Going Into this WWE Crown Jewel Match

WWE 2K23 Predictions

Seth Rollins retains his championship.

WWE Crown Jewel Real-World Predictions

It is highly likely that Seth Rollins, a prominent figure in WWE 2K23, will emerge as the winner. This prediction is considered reasonable and secure due to Rollins' significant contributions in elevating the status of the World Heavyweight Championship. Whenever he eventually loses the title, the situation will require a more intense rivalry than what currently exists between Rollins and McIntyre. Whether this progresses into a series of matches or if McIntyre ends up aligning with The Judgment Day, it seems quite certain that the rivalry between Rollins and McIntyre will continue beyond just one PLE event, even after the upcoming Crown Jewel.

Rhea Ripley vs. Nia Jax vs. Shayna Baszler vs. Zoey Stark vs. Raquel Rodriquez

Furthermore, the possibility of Damian Priest utilizing his Money in the Bank contract should also be taken into account. Even though it may appear improbable considering his upcoming bout against Cody Rhodes, which is likely to occur prior to this matchup, it is worth noting that unexpected events have transpired before.

Women's World Championship

What to Know Going Into this WWE Crown Jewel Match

During WWE Payback, Rhea Ripley successfully defended her Women's World Championship title against Raquel Rodriquez. A subsequent rematch between the two was unexpectedly disrupted by the unexpected return of Nia Jax, who launched an assault on both Ripley and Rodriquez. Jax continued to cause chaos by interfering in a match featuring Zoey Stark and Shayna Baszler, leading to further scuffles. These incidents prompted Raw General Manager Adam Peace to announce a Fatal Five-Way match at Crown Jewel. It is important to note that Jax's absence from WWE 2K23 makes this a fictitious prediction. Nevertheless, we meticulously simulated the match with the remaining wrestlers.

WWE 2K23 Predictions

Zoey Stark beats the other characters, though this simulation is again with caveats.*

WWE Crown Jewel Real-World Predictions

In a surprising turn of events, Zoey Stark defies all expectations and emerges as the victorious new Women's World Champion. Despite predictions leaning towards Rhea Ripley retaining her title, this unexpected outcome adds an exciting twist to the match. It showcases Ripley's ability to stand alone without the support of The Judgment Day and solidifies her position as one of WWE's most popular female superstars. The odds were stacked against her, making her victory even more impressive. That being said, recent signs of discord within The Judgment Day suggest that a member losing a championship may be on the horizon. Whether that member is Ripley and whether it will happen as early as Crown Jewel remains uncertain.

Rey Mysterio vs. Logan Paul

WWE United States Championship

What to Know Going Into this WWE Crown Jewel Match

Following his victory in boxing on October 14, the ever-confident Logan Paul issued a challenge to Rey Mysterio for the WWE United States Championship. Responding on social media, Mysterio informed Paul that he can be found every Friday on SmackDown. A mix of promotional activities, confrontations, and shenanigans between Paul and Dirty Dom Mysterio ultimately led to Rey accepting the match at Crown Jewel. It's a scenario reminiscent of Rollins and McIntyre: Rey possesses the coveted gold while Logan Paul eagerly desires it. Nevertheless, apart from the WWE United States Championship, one intriguing possibility that could emerge from this is a revived conflict between Dirty Dom and his father or further hijinks involving Dirty Dom and Paul, given their shared penchant for being villains.

WWE 2K23 Predictions

Logan Paul beats Rey Mysterio to become WWE United States Champion.

WWE Crown Jewel Real-World Predictions

This one has the potential to take any direction. While Mysterio's association with the LWO adds credibility, his illustrious career suggests he won't need to hold onto it for long. On the other hand, if Logan Paul is making a long-term comeback, it might be wise to put the championship on the heel to set up intriguing future storylines. While loyal WWE fans might desire Mysterio to retain the title, Logan Paul's critics wouldn't want him to achieve such success. However, considering the various narrative possibilities, this match feels like a toss-up.

Cody Rhodes vs. Damian Priest

Singles Match

What to Know Going Into this WWE Crown Jewel Match

The dominance of The Judgment Day in Monday Night Raw is evidenced by the abundance of championship gold adorning their waistlines. As a result, numerous exhilarating showdowns have taken place between The Judgment Day members and esteemed wrestlers like Cody Rhodes, Sami Zayn, Kevin Owens, and even Jey Uso. Anticipating the potential WarGames event at Survivor Series, many speculate that The Judgment Day and McDonagh will confront the aforementioned quartet. Recently, Rhodes and Uso managed to seize the Undisputed WWE tag team championship belts from Damian Priest and Finn Balor, only to have them regained, thereby fostering a gripping rivalry between Rhodes and Priest.

The intense promos between Priest and Rhodes included Priest calling Rhodes a failure, subtly taunting his loss to Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 39. This clearly motivated Rhodes, who expressed in a recent promo that he is determined to reclaim his path, likely leading to a shot at the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. Rhodes also belittled Priest, referring to him as a follower in the stories of other wrestlers like Rhea Ripley, Balor, and Mysterio, emphasizing his own superiority. Although this match is not for a championship, it is a battle of pride.

WWE 2K23 Predictions

Pride goeth before the fall. WWE 2K23's Damian Priest beats Cody Rhodes.

WWE Crown Jewel Real-World Predictions

This prediction appears highly unlikely. Not only is Cody Rhodes currently established as the leading good guy in WWE, but a victory in this match could serve as a catalyst for Rhodes' transition from The Judgment Day back to The Bloodline. Meanwhile, regardless of the outcome, The Judgment Day's vulnerabilities have started to become apparent. Priest's opportunity to utilize the briefcase is also diminishing, suggesting that it might be time for The Judgment Day to direct its relentless aggression towards other individuals.

John Cena vs. Solo Sikoa

Singles Match

What to Know Going Into this WWE Crown Jewel Match

WWE 2K23 Predictions

Cena has put in considerable effort to endorse LA Knight, who is scheduled to face Roman Reigns at Crown Jewel. However, many argue that Knight doesn't actually require Cena's support. LA Knight's popularity within the WWE has skyrocketed, and a match against Roman Reigns seems like a natural progression. Consequently, Cena finds himself facing off against Solo Sikoa, The Bloodline's enforcer. In a recent episode of SmackDown, Cena delivered a promo expressing his frustration over not winning a televised singles match since 2018, which he considers an excessively long period for a superstar of his caliber. Thus, he issued an open challenge, which Sikoa accepted, resulting in a brawl and the subsequent official announcement of the match.

In what would be a huge upset, WWE 2K23 predicts Solo Sikoa beating Cena.

WWE Crown Jewel Real-World Predictions

Iyo Sky vs. Bianca Belair

There are several potential benefits for Sikoa in defeating Cena, although it seems highly unlikely considering Cena's admirable humility and his recent five-year streak of televised singles losses. However, given Cena's part-time status, it would make logical sense for him to secure a victory in this situation.

WWE Women's Championship

What to Know Going Into this WWE Crown Jewel Match

After winning the WWE Women's Championship title at SummerSlam, Bianca Belair's victory was short-lived as Iyo Sky cashed in her Money in the Bank contract and claimed the title. Belair then took a break from the show for two months, citing a "knee injury." However, she made her triumphant return right after Sky's successful defense against Charlotte Flair. Belair intervened to save Flair from an attack by Sky and Bayley. Following this incident, Belair immediately requested a rematch for the title, speaking to the new SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis about her aspirations.

WWE 2K23 Predictions

Belair becomes the new WWE Women's Champion.

WWE Crown Jewel Real-World Predictions

This scenario presents a challenge. While Sky's reign as champion may not have been long enough to warrant relinquishing the title to Belair, there is potential for an engaging and multi-faceted feud. Sky cunningly seized the belt, fueling Belair's desire to reclaim it. This serves as a compelling motivation. However, it is undeniable that Belair enjoys considerable popularity. Although Sky appears to be the probable victor at the moment, a surprise Belair win would not be out of the question.

Roman Reigns vs. LA Knight

Undisputed WWE Universal Champion

What to Know Going Into this WWE Crown Jewel Match, YEAH.

Because of LA Knight's immense popularity, it is evident that WWE Creative is determined to propel him to new heights. Supported by Cena, LA Knight boldly confronted Roman Reigns, officially signed the contract for their highly anticipated match, and even nonchalantly passed by Reigns without acknowledging his presence. Following several intense brawls, compelling promos, and various other thrilling moments, the showdown between The Megastar and The Tribal Chief becomes an irresistible spectacle.

WWE 2K23 Predictions

WWE 2K23's Roman Reigns retains the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.

WWE Crown Jewel Real-World Predictions

Everyone is well aware that Reigns is highly unlikely to lose the title to LA Knight, and even if he did, it would go down as one of the most shocking moments in WWE history. The repercussions would throw off a multitude of other storylines that revolve around Reigns, leading to complete chaos within the WWE universe. Nevertheless, LA Knight finds himself in the same ring as Reigns, and regardless of whether Reigns emerges victorious through fair means or foul, it signifies a significant step forward for the Megastar. What lies ahead for LA Knight afterwards remains uncertain, but it is highly probable, as suggested by WWE 2K23, that Reigns will continue to hold onto the championship belt.

WWE 2K23

WWE 2K23 is set to be the biggest and best game in the franchise so far. It will offer expanded features and a large roster of current and former WWE Superstars. The game includes various multiplayer modes, such as 3v3 and 4v4. In addition, players can experience John Cena's iconic moments in the ring through the Showcase mode.

For the game details:

- Franchise: WWE 2K

- Platforms: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, PC

- Release date: March 17, 2023

- Developer: Visual Concepts

- Publisher: 2K

- Genre: Sports

- ESRB rating: T for Teen (Blood, Language, Suggestive Themes, Violence)

- How Long To Beat: 8 Hours

- Metascore: 82

- Crossplay support: PS4 & PS5 and Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S

- Split Screen Orientation: N/A (Shared Screen)

- Number of Players: 1-4

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I am excited about the upcoming WWE Crown Jewel event and eager to see how the matches play out. I think the event will be a thrilling spectacle, filled with unexpected twists and intense rivalries. I'm especially looking forward to the main event, where Roman Reigns will defend his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against LA Knight. It should be an epic battle, and I can't wait to see who comes out on top.

I also think it's great that WWE 2K23's MyGM Mode allows fans to simulate the matches and see how they would play out in the game. It's a fun way to engage with the event and get a sense of what might happen. I think the simulations are a good way to predict the outcomes of the matches, but I also think there's always a chance for surprises. Overall, I'm excited about WWE Crown Jewel and can't wait to see what happens!