User blog comment:B214/Shin DxD 1 discussion/@comment-85.210.90.245-20180909181230/@comment-2601:87:8300:20D0:CD5A:D6E7:DB47:45F1-20180910193953

Ultimate Pawn I feel that Hades it not only confident, but also knows not to underestimate them. It's hard to believe someone of his caliber wouldn't have a backup plan. In know way was because his opponents were weak that he won. That's just an insult and excuse. They strong opponents more experience even God level and you said that. Rias vs Vali for the climax seems redundant that it's nothing more than a revenge match and has less meaning than Issei vs Vali regardless of the winner. I feel that most of the Rias supporters just assume that Issei could just return to Rias team, but that sounds too simply. Anyone can be a candidate but to built up the story I believe Issei vs Vali is the best choice and long time coming whether it's now or later, does anyone think that fight won't happen. They have the perfect stage and the gave the name Azazel cup without making it obvious. I know this is speculation and doesn't prove anything but how many times have rivals in stories and animes can only face each other in the finals win or lose.