Parisian Predictions came to life at WWE Clash in Paris, a Premium Live Event held on August 31, 2025, at the Paris La Défense Arena in Nanterre, France. This event, WWE’s second major show in France after Backlash 2024, drew considerable attention, especially as it marked John Cena’s final European in-ring appearance and the last WWE main roster event on Peacock before the move to ESPN. Experts weighed in with predictions, adding to the anticipation surrounding each match.
World Heavyweight Championship: Rollins’ Gauntlet
Fatal 4-Way Match: Seth Rollins (c) vs. CM Punk vs. LA Knight vs. Jey Uso
The main event featured Seth Rollins defending his World Heavyweight Championship in a high-stakes Fatal 4-Way match. Experts largely favored Rollins to retain, though the chaotic nature of the match left room for surprises. According to CBS Sports, Rollins was predicted to retain through strategic maneuvering. TheSportster’s AI predictions went a step further, suggesting interference from The Vision members Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed to help Rollins defeat LA Knight. Total Apex Sports anticipated a Rollins victory via “creative chicanery.” NFL.com’s Mark Kaboly also predicted Rollins to retain, specifically by pinning CM Punk, with Bron Breakker again cited as a potential disruptor.
Singles Showdowns and Rivalries
Roman Reigns vs. Bronson Reed
This match was fueled by a personal feud, with Bronson Reed repeatedly antagonizing Roman Reigns. The consensus among experts pointed towards a Reigns victory. Total Apex Sports predicted a decisive win for Reigns, emphasizing his need to regain momentum. TheSportster’s AI suggested Reigns would overcome interference from Bron Breakker to win with a spear. However, The Times of India offered a contrasting view, predicting a Bronson Reed victory, potentially through underhanded tactics and interference. Mark Kaboly also predicted a Reigns victory, suggesting a post-match beatdown to set up a storyline for Survivor Series.
John Cena vs. Logan Paul
John Cena’s farewell tour included a match against controversial influencer Logan Paul, resulting in divided expert opinions. CBS Sports predicted a win for Logan Paul, viewing Cena’s match as a “speedbump on Cena’s retirement tour.” TheSportster’s AI went even further, predicting a shock victory for Paul after Brock Lesnar interfered. Conversely, Total Apex Sports predicted a Cena victory in a “surprisingly entertaining match.” The Times of India also favored Cena, while acknowledging the possibility of other wrestlers joining the fray, with fans hoping for appearances from Brock Lesnar or Cody Rhodes. Mark Kaboly sided with Cena, emphasizing the limited time remaining in his career.
Title Defenses and Donnybrooks
WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Becky Lynch (c) vs. Nikki Bella
Becky Lynch defended her Women’s Intercontinental Championship against the returning WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella. The prevailing prediction was a Lynch victory. CBS Sports and Total Apex Sports both predicted Lynch to retain, citing Bella’s extended absence from singles competition. Last Word On Sports, while acknowledging Lynch’s strong run, suggested a potential upset with Bella winning the title. The Times of India predicted a Lynch retention, possibly with a “numbers game” playing a role. Mark Kaboly emphasized Lynch’s strong heel persona and momentum, further supporting her retention.
Sheamus vs. Rusev (Good Ol’ Fashioned Donnybrook Match)
This no-disqualification “good ol’ fashioned donnybrook” match aimed to resolve the escalating conflict between Sheamus and Rusev. Experts generally favored Rusev. CBS Sports predicted a Rusev victory. Total Apex Sports also predicted Rusev to win, citing his comeback tour and the creative team’s plans. TheSportster’s AI predicted a brutal Rusev victory, ending with Sheamus going through a barricade. The Times of India also favored Rusev. Cinemablend predicted Rusev to win, noting his recent return to WWE. Last Word On Sports picked Rusev, highlighting his physical style and the compelling nature of the feud.
SmackDown Tag Team Championship: The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis) (c) vs. The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford)
The Wyatt Sicks defended their SmackDown Tag Team Championships against The Street Profits. The predictions leaned towards a Wyatt Sicks victory. The Times of India predicted The Wyatt Sicks would retain their titles. Last Word On Sports also predicted a Wyatt Sicks retention, stating WWE’s desire to protect the newly formed faction.
Impact and Aftermath
WWE Clash in Paris significantly impacted WWE’s global presence, particularly in Europe, building on the momentum from previous events like Backlash in Lyon. The event advanced key storylines, setting the stage for future rivalries and championship pursuits. The World Heavyweight Championship match outcome will shape Seth Rollins’ path, while the Cena vs. Paul match, regardless of the result, played a part in Cena’s farewell tour. Furthermore, the event marked the end of WWE’s main roster PPVs on Peacock in the US. The enthusiastic crowd and memorable moments are likely to encourage WWE to host more premium live events in France, further solidifying its international appeal.
