SPOTLIGHTED PODCAST ALERT (YOUR ARTICLE BEGINS A FEW INCHES DOWN)...
Opening Segment: Bloodline Promo — HIT
This was the closest we have seen to a pure babyface promo from the Bloodline in months. Jimmy Uso showing genuine concern for his younger brother Solo Sikoa was a clear babyface move. While Jacob Fatu relied heavily on his catchphrases, he delivered a fired-up promo that energized the crowd.
The Jaida Parker misdirection was unexpected and interesting. It provided a teaser for why she is on Raw while also putting a pause on the inevitable showdown between 946 and the Bloodline, which would take place later in the show.
Roxanne Perez vs. Lola Vice — HIT
This was smarter booking and a better performance from Lola Vice than we saw in her debut. Her mechanics looked smooth and conveyed impact, and she was given the opportunity to display her personality and energy. By doing so, the crowd became invested in the match and was rewarded with a clean victory for Vice.
As for Roxanne, both her in-ring ability and heel character work were on point. The post-match run-ins and eventual Judgment Day beatdown were strong as well. I’m glad they allowed the match to conclude before getting to the outside involvement.
Oba Femi and Bronson Reed Showdown — HIT
Oba Femi continues to impress on the microphone. We have seen him deliver fired-up, catchphrase-heavy promos effectively, but I think his mic work tonight demonstrated a deeper skill level. He was able to further the storyline and build anticipation for the match with a talking segment rather than simply relying on his usual intensity.
As for Bronson Reed, his rebuttal was simple and effective, and you could feel the tension in the live crowd for the eventual showdown. Many probably believed this segment ended abruptly without a climax, but I applaud WWE for not having every talking segment between future competitors break down into a brawl with security guards eventually pulling everyone apart. In this case, it was fine to let the audience anticipate the future showdown between Bronson Reed and Oba Femi.
ARTICLE CONTINUED BELOW…
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Dragon Lee vs. Big Cass — HIT
A surprising underdog victory for Dragon Lee, who did a good job working from underneath and showing heart. While it was surprising to see Big Cass take a loss, this was the first opportunity we have had to see Cass play the bully heel in a match, and while it was not perfect, I think it showed promise.
His offense looked impactful, and he came across as intense and arrogant, which made the Dragon Lee victory that much more satisfying for the live crowd. An effective story combined with a surprising clean finish is a win from me.
LA Knight Video — HIT
Strong video. LA Knight spoke his truth, provided a quick history of his WWE career and his last match against Roman Reigns, and gave fans a reason to root for him in his upcoming title match.
Iyo Sky vs. Lyra Valkyria — HIT
Given the long-standing feud between Lyra Valkyria and Bayley, it was surprising how much better this match was than the Bayley vs. Lyra match last week. The crowd was much more involved, the action was smoother and more exciting, and the overall intensity was at a higher level.
Iyo Sky was the more energetic babyface, while Lyra was a much more deranged and effective heel. While the distraction finish is still overused, the fact that it was the first time they used that particular version of the finish tonight allows me to excuse it.
JD McDonagh & Dominik Mysterio vs. Je’Von Evans & Penta — HIT
A little bit of a mixed bag for me here, but overall, this was a high-energy and very good match. There was some sloppiness between Dominik and Penta in the middle, but once they made the hot tag to Je’Von, the energy picked up, the excitement increased, and the action was much better.
I’m glad Je’Von’s misfire on the OG Cutter, which hit Penta, was not blown out of proportion by either person. I could have done without Joe Hendry’s lame song, which just seemed mean-spirited, but getting another decisive and exciting finish put this in the HIT column for me.
Lastly, Braun Breakker showing up after the match instead of during it to lay out both of his Money in the Bank opponents was much preferred to having him interfere during the match and cause a disqualification.
Closing Segment: Bloodline and 946 Showdown — HIT
A chaotic and effective closing segment. Since their debut, this was by far the best 946 segment since their arrival on the main roster. The fighting and brawling felt legitimate and very physical, and the final scene with Jaida running over Jacob Fatu before revealing herself as a member of 946 was great.
The reaction from the live crowd, which could clearly be heard, was evidence of the segment’s effectiveness. I also loved Ricky Keys’ parting line, “All gas, no brakes,” as the show faded out.
