Since first stepping into the squared circle, Rusev has had Lana at his side. But, after they parted ways on the latest edition of Raw, one has to wonder if The Ravishing Russian has been the key to Rusev’s success all along.

It is said that behind every successful man is a woman who got him there. Whether or not that is true, no one can deny that having someone in their corner that holds them in such high esteem will fill any competitor with the confidence to take on the world. Since day one, Lana’s unique combination of beauty, purpose and commanding presence has demanded that the spotlight shine on The Bulgarian Brute.

While not necessarily a physical threat like J&J Security or as crafty as The Mad Scientist Paul Heyman, the blonde bombshell has always radiated encouragement, much like Miss Elizabeth once did for WWE Hall of Famer Randy “Macho Man” Savage. Her exquisite nature drove many opponents off their game, just enough to render them vulnerable to Rusev’s excruciating Accolade. Moreover, one could say that together the pair was always undefeated – since it wasn’t until they had issues that John Cena finally conquered his vicious foe.

Perhaps most importantly, there have been numerous instances where Lana’s influence over her fierce competitor has kept his temper in check, whether that meant convincing him to cease his attack or to not engage an adversary at all when the timing wasn’t to their advantage. It might not be too far out of reason to suggest that throughout Rusev’s career, Lana has been the only force that could control him at all. However, that voice of reason is no longer in the equation and one has to wonder whether the lack of control will ultimately send the brutal Superstar into a tailspin.

This Sunday, in the first WWE Elimination Chamber Match for the Intercontinental Championship, Rusev may be stepping inside the career-altering Chamber with five opponents, but his mind may very well be on what is lacking. Lana will most likely be in the corner of Dolph Ziggler, and the WWE Universe will find out one way or the other whether Rusev can win without her. Don’t miss WWE Elimination Chamber, this Sunday at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, exclusively on WWE Network for people watching in the U.S.