Chicago Sun-Times: [ There is no doubting that Chris Benoit has the skills... ]

There is no doubting that Chris Benoit has the skills to beat any man at any time and can be a World champion. At the same time, Benoit must admit he has let more than his share of chances get away.

Just before the "Royal Rumble," Ric Flair pointed out to Benoit that on numerous occasions the Crippler has been able to grab the brass ring, but let it slip out of his hands every time -- and the Rumble could be his last chance. If that was the case, Benoit took advantage of his last chance and finally eliminated the Big Show in winning the "Royal Rumble" to become the No. 1 contender for the World title.

Then Benoit shook up the "Raw" roster. As HHH and Shawn Michaels argued over who should be the champ following their last-man- standing match at the Rumble, Benoit informed the two that despite being on the "SmackDown" roster, his intentions were to face the "Raw" champ at "WrestleMania." This bombshell most affects "SmackDown" GM Paul Heyman, who had been counting on a Benoit vs. Brock Lesnar Mania main event, but now has nothing.

That problem is about to be fixed for him as Goldberg is on his way to the "SmackDown" roster to try to gain a measure of revenge against Lesnar, who helped eliminate Goldberg from the Rumble. Will either Goldberg or Benoit win at "WrestleMania"? Probably not, but they both put on great shows at the Rumble.

HEARD AROUND THE RING: Sandman announced he is bringing in Terry Funk as a tag partner for next week's NWA-TNA show. ... Sounds like when Spanky quit the WWE last week, he left the door open behind him. We hear that quite a few other wrestlers are fed up with the direction of the company and are looking for work elsewhere.

HOTLINE: The WWE interested in Jeff Hardy, New Jack and three other tag-team greats. Get the details and much more on the hotline: (900) 990-SLAM ($2 per minute).