‘Series of matches’ announced to crown new WWE Universal champion on Raw next week

Former (and initial) WWE Universal champion Finn Bálor had barely handed the new belt over to Raw General Manager Mick Foley when a parade of contenders for the belt marched to the ring to petition for a shot at the title, or in the case of Seth Rollins, to just be handed the championship.

In addition to Rollins, Chris Jericho, Sami Zayn, Kevin Owens, Enzo Amore, Big Cass and Roman Reigns all hit the ring to ask for an opportunity.

Foley broke through the chaos to announce the plan - although he was light on details. There will be a series of matches on Raw tonight to determine who will battle for the Universal title next Monday night in Houston.

Whether that’s a tournament isn’t clear; nor is how the “series” will work with an odd number of wrestlers.

That should become more clear as the evening wears on - especially since the first bout, Rollins vs. Zayn, is taking place now.

UPDATE: Neville has been added to the series for a match against Owens. No word if that’s the only addition, or what the format is.

UPDATE 2: Michael Cole announced there will be four matches tonight, the winner of which will face off in a Fatal 4Way for the Universal title. Enzo is not competing. The remaining two matches will be Rusev vs. Big Cass and Reigns vs. Jericho.

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