WWE exploring idea of unifying Intercontinental and United States titles

Just this past Dec. 15 in Houston at the TLC pay-per-view, WWE unified the WWE and world heavyweight championship titles, clearing up the top of the card and officially doing away with the brand extension. That left five titles spread across the roster:

1. WWE World heavyweight title
2. Intercontinental title
3. United States title
4. Tag team titles
5. Diva's title

Of the above championships, the Intercontinental and United States straps mostly serve the same purpose. They operate as mid-card accomplishments used to bolster a particular star on his way to bigger and better things.

Or at least that's how it always used to be.

Perhaps that's why WWE is now exploring the idea of unifying those two titles and going back to the old school system of having one major championship for each rung on the ladder. Triple H always was a sucker for tradition, so this makes sense for the creative direction he's hoping to take the promotion in as he gains more power and influence.

In an article at WWE.com, Big E. Langston and Dean Ambrose were asked about unifying the belts:

WWE.COM: Let's get right to it: Do you think the United States Title and the Intercontinental Title should be unified?

BIG E LANGSTON: I'd be open to it. If it strengthens the legitimacy of both titles, then I'm all for it.

DEAN AMBROSE: It'd be a good thing as long as they made one good looking championship for me to haul around, because I'd definitely be the one holding it.

Later in the interview, they were asked about a potential match:

WWE.COM: It sounds like you're both prepared for an eventual champion vs. champion showdown.

LANGSTON: I'd welcome the challenge.

AMBROSE: I feel that what I've given and sacrificed for the U.S. Title, I'd be willing to put that on the line as a pride thing. It's just as good as the Intercontinental Title. That's something I'd be willing to prove.

For what it's worth, WWE.com is also conducting a poll asking fans if the titles should be unified. You can vote on that by clicking here. As of this writing, 62-percent of just over 15,000 voters said the titles should, in fact, be unified.

Your thoughts, Cagesiders?