User blog comment:IamJakuhoRaikoben/Chapter 496: Forward, Review./@comment-4945830-20160801190726/@comment-25111584-20160802064625

I don't think anybody actually hates Invel. They're either just not interested in him (like Rai) or not too hyped because, well, introduction just 3 Chappies (normal Shield bullshit fight length) before 500 does not bode well. Not to mention the fact that Invel seems the most rational of the Shields, so heading out alone would be disappointing.

A fight against Gray is boring because the ice vs. ice concept has been overused. Plus, Invel being a God Slayer simply to counter Gray's IDSM is unimaginative, and anything otherwise would be nerfing Gray's IDSM (which I would actually welcome, but others might not). And the sheer predictability also works against the fight. Of course these are only the reasons applicable specifically to Gray vs. Invel.

There are quite a few reasons to hope that Gray doesn't fight a Shield at all. Gray not getting a fight till now most likely means that the Shield would stand no chance against him, no matter what powers they showcase, which is an instant formula for even more bullshit. Even worse, Juvia could be involved in the fight, however stupid that sounds, and then the whole affair would become a shipping farce rather than an actual fight.