Around the Ring: Wrestlemania 23 preview

I know Wrestlemania 23 will be in a week, so I thought I'd jump the gun and comment on the matches that are currently announced and make some predictions. While this year's card for me isn't as robust and exciting as past “Manias, I'm sure a good time will be had by all. Hopefully we'll have a few surprises as well! As a bonus, Interrobang reader, Kyle Thibeault, has offered to put in his two cents in the column this week! Let's see if we see eye to eye:

Chris Benoit (c) vs. MVP for the US Championship

Peter: I think this match will be ok, seeing how Benoit can carry most through a match. As someone who doesn't support MVP too much, I can't see myself getting into this match. They've hyped up this guy enough to have him pull the upset victory over Benoit to continue this feud for a few more months. Winner: MVP.

Kyle: I think this match is going to MVP since Smackdown paid some big bucks to get this guy and it is his first Wrestlemania. As well they can create some very interesting story lines with his character since he is not liked by many of the other stars. Winner: MVP

Kane vs. The Great Khali

Peter: ZZZ…what? I have to comment on this? This match won't last long considering that Khali can't really do anything. With that being said, Kane will take this match. Winner: Kane.

Kyle: I also agree with your opinion of Kane winning this match. Kahli has been over hyped lately as unstoppable. Kane will win this and set himself up for a major belt run. Winner: Kane

Melina (c) vs. Ashley for the WWE Woman's Championship

Peter: Melina is learning how to get better in the ring. Ashley is learning how to take her clothes off. Winner: Melina

Kyle: Ashley is the winner of this match because WWE is really trying to make her the brand name girl of the franchise (since Trish left) much like Cena for the males. Winner: Ashley

ECW Originals vs. The New Breed

Peter: This is the match where you will see blood and some completely ridiculous spots. If you liked Foley/Edge vs. Dreamer/Funk last year, you'll love this one. Winner: ECW Originals.

Kyle: I also agree with the Originals winning this match. The ECW is in jeopardy and really supporting the guys who brought it to where it is today will make fans happy. Winner: Originals

Money in the Bank Ladder Match

Peter: This is the match that will steal the show. You have the Hardy's, Edge and Orton, Mr. Kennedy, CM Punk, King Booker, and Finley. These guys can all do excellent things individually, so you know that there are going to be some amazing spots planned. Winner: Mr. Kennedy (due to other storylines for more high-end superstars are going to be in place).

Kyle: I agree that this will be the highlight match of Wrestlemania. But unlike you Peter I'm going to pick a previous winner in Edge. This will come along nicely for the Orton/Edge feud that's about to start. Winner: Edge

Battle of the Billionaires - Lashley w/Donald Trump vs. Umaga w/Vince McMahon

Peter: Does anyone really think that Trump went into this to get his head shaved? Lashley is going to get the win (just barely) over Umaga and Stone Cold will be there to shave Vince's head.

Kyle: Lashley will win the match, Vince will be bald and Stone Cold will be drinking a lot of beers. Can I Have a “Hell Yeah?” Winner: Lashley

John Cena (c) vs. HBK for the WWE Title

Peter: This match should be an excellent back and forth match and although there hasn't been much face vs. heel build up to this match, everyone is anticipating to who is gonna turn on the crowd. I think it will be HBK, but it will be after the match when the WWE lets Cena walk out as the champ. Winner: Cena

Kyle: I'm so sick of Cena that I hope HBK takes this down. HBK will turn face on the fans and Cena for the ultimate price, the WWE Title. Winner: HBK

Batista (c) vs. The Undertaker - World Heavyweight Championship

Peter: One big title will change hands at WM 23 and this is the one that will. Batista won't end The Undertaker's winning streak and let the Deadman have his last title reign before he retires. Don't be surprised to hear Batista get booed and turn as well. Winner: Taker

Kyle: I hate the Taker as much as I hate Cena. For that reason only I hope the animal takes down. Realistically Undertaker will win this match but I'm hoping for like always some crappy WWE finish that will get the Undertaker disqualified. Winner: Undertaker

Thanks, Kyle for your input! We'll have to see how the show goes and perhaps have a post-show article discussing the high and lows!