WWE Extreme Rules 2019: WWE Championship Match preview

Kofi Kingston’s first run as WWE Champion has been exemplary so far as he’s faced off with a variety of opponents in some epic matches. At Extreme Rules he puts the title on the line, this time against Samoa Joe.

After losing the United States title to Ricochet at Stomping Grounds, Samoa Joe wasted no time in making a claim for Kofi Kingston’s WWE Championship. Joe blindsided Kingston on an episode of Monday Night Raw, setting the wheels in motion for the title match to take place.

Things escalated when Joe confronted Kingston on SmackDown, requesting the champion shake his hand. Kingston responded with a non-PG finger salute followed by his signature “Trouble in Paradise” kick that leveled Joe.

This isn’t the first time the two have battled. In February a gauntlet match was announced to determine who would replace an injured Ali inside the Elimination Chamber. Kingston outlasted everyone, including Joe, to earn his spot in the match. The following March, another gauntlet match was held for Kingston’s right to challenge Daniel Bryan at WrestleMania. This time Joe stood tall in victory. Kingston also took his first loss on Raw since he being champion at the hands of Joe as well.

The pairing of these two talented athletes could steal the show at Extreme Rules. As of this writing no special stipulations have been added to the match but with performers the caliber of Joe and Kingston, they don’t need it to put on a stellar match.

Tune in to the WWE Network Sunday, July 14, at 7 ET/4 PT for Extreme Rules streaming live.