Written by: Kevin Berge (All Images Courtesy of: WWE.com)
Last week's WWE Monday Night Raw was all about building up the roster ahead of a new day for the company with a new brand split coming. WWE Battleground feuds were set in motion while top stars such as Sasha Banks and The Wyatt Family returned to make their mark.
This week's Raw review theme is TV tropes. While it is often said that Vince McMahon does not watch anything but WWE, WWE will always be head on in competition with other television currently running, and they certainly know what the TV tropes are to exploit. In fact, they've repeated almost every trope in the book which makes pointing them out interesting.
This week's Raw review theme is TV tropes. While it is often said that Vince McMahon does not watch anything but WWE, WWE will always be head on in competition with other television currently running, and they certainly know what the TV tropes are to exploit. In fact, they've repeated almost every trope in the book which makes pointing them out interesting.
All these people complain about never getting title shots, but they should know you can get title shots on repeat by complaining in the ring.
Everyone That Matters Right Now Are All Set Into Conflict
Overview: Seth Rollins began the night to talk about WWE Battleground but suddenly shifted to Roman Reigns and his suspension. He made fun of Reigns and found the suspension to be a personal affront to himself even breaking down Roman's tweet. Rollins demanded then that Reigns be thrown out of the Battleground title match.
Dean Ambrose came out to answer Rollins' demand, teasing him with the WWE Championship right in front of his face. Ambrose didn't care much about Reigns' mistake, just looking forward. This brought out AJ Styles who agreed there should still be a triple threat just with him in the mix over Roman.
Styles used his win over John Cena as his reason for deserving the shot which brought out John. Cena said today was his WWE debut anniversary, and he wanted to celebrate it by fighting for the championship. He even brought up the United States Championship Open Challenge where Cena beat Ambrose, asking to get a fatal five way at Battleground.
Stephanie McMahon came out, saying she was mortified about Ambrose being WWE Champion, and, since Shane McMahon was not around, she was making all the decisions tonight. She made two matches, Seth Rollins vs. John Cena and Dean Ambrose vs. AJ Styles, where a win for Cena or Styles would insert them in the World Championship match at Battleground.
Analysis: This was a WWE classic with wrestling being the only competition where you usually get what you want by complaining. The two main event feuds right now are The Shield conflict and Cena vs. Styles, so they put everyone but Roman Reigns (for obvious reasons) in the same ring to all complain about wanting the same thing.
There is a reason this is a WWE mainstay move though as it worked well. Seth Rollins got to start things off by addressing Roman Reigns' situation, so the story can move on from that situation without awkward silence. Then we got to see four of the best right now talk and set up two main event quality clashes for the night.
Dean Ambrose came out to answer Rollins' demand, teasing him with the WWE Championship right in front of his face. Ambrose didn't care much about Reigns' mistake, just looking forward. This brought out AJ Styles who agreed there should still be a triple threat just with him in the mix over Roman.
Styles used his win over John Cena as his reason for deserving the shot which brought out John. Cena said today was his WWE debut anniversary, and he wanted to celebrate it by fighting for the championship. He even brought up the United States Championship Open Challenge where Cena beat Ambrose, asking to get a fatal five way at Battleground.
Stephanie McMahon came out, saying she was mortified about Ambrose being WWE Champion, and, since Shane McMahon was not around, she was making all the decisions tonight. She made two matches, Seth Rollins vs. John Cena and Dean Ambrose vs. AJ Styles, where a win for Cena or Styles would insert them in the World Championship match at Battleground.
Analysis: This was a WWE classic with wrestling being the only competition where you usually get what you want by complaining. The two main event feuds right now are The Shield conflict and Cena vs. Styles, so they put everyone but Roman Reigns (for obvious reasons) in the same ring to all complain about wanting the same thing.
There is a reason this is a WWE mainstay move though as it worked well. Seth Rollins got to start things off by addressing Roman Reigns' situation, so the story can move on from that situation without awkward silence. Then we got to see four of the best right now talk and set up two main event quality clashes for the night.
It's good that Dana Brooke came up to the main roster to replace Ric Flair as she is so much better as the inept lackey.
Sasha Banks and Paige def. Charlotte and Dana Brooke; The Bad Guy Avoids Her Rival By Throwing Her Lackey to the Wolves
Overview: Charlotte began against Sasha Banks, but Charlotte ran to tag in Dana Brooke before they could lock up. Dana isolated Banks in the corner but spent too much time speaking and got punched in the face. Paige got the tag, and the two sent both women reeling to the outside.
The two heels managed to get control after isolating Paige on the apron and knocking her to the floor. The two beat down on Paige with strikes and rest holds. Charlotte took a cheap shot at Banks that got her fired up which seemed to get Paige rolling as well as he continuously got close to the tag before connecting with the hot tag to Banks.
Banks took out both women with Charlotte barely saving Brooke from a cover. Paige then took out Charlotte on the outside, allowing Banks to dodge a Brooke roll up attempt before hitting a backbreaker into the Bank Statement for the submission.
Analysis: Every good bad guy has to get themselves some lackies to take the fall and make their rival look better. Dana Brooke is Charlotte's protege which basically means she's the cannon fodder to take beatdowns so that Charlotte doesn't have to, and she'll be doing a lot of that with Sasha Banks around.
As odd as it's been to not have Banks around, she has always been booked as a near unstoppable force. She rarely loses to anyone, and she's unlikely to lose clean until she's taken the title from Charlotte. Even though Charlotte is champion, she's the bad guy. She will always be the coward, running from Sasha's surprising power.
The two heels managed to get control after isolating Paige on the apron and knocking her to the floor. The two beat down on Paige with strikes and rest holds. Charlotte took a cheap shot at Banks that got her fired up which seemed to get Paige rolling as well as he continuously got close to the tag before connecting with the hot tag to Banks.
Banks took out both women with Charlotte barely saving Brooke from a cover. Paige then took out Charlotte on the outside, allowing Banks to dodge a Brooke roll up attempt before hitting a backbreaker into the Bank Statement for the submission.
Analysis: Every good bad guy has to get themselves some lackies to take the fall and make their rival look better. Dana Brooke is Charlotte's protege which basically means she's the cannon fodder to take beatdowns so that Charlotte doesn't have to, and she'll be doing a lot of that with Sasha Banks around.
As odd as it's been to not have Banks around, she has always been booked as a near unstoppable force. She rarely loses to anyone, and she's unlikely to lose clean until she's taken the title from Charlotte. Even though Charlotte is champion, she's the bad guy. She will always be the coward, running from Sasha's surprising power.
That's right, Rusev. You're not allowed to choose to take a count out loss. Titus will make you take a count out loss.
Titus O'Neil def. Rusev by Count Out; Underdog Steals a Win Over The Man Who Told Him He'd Never Win
Overview: Titus O'Neil started immediately beating down on Rusev rather than letting the match begin, but he was convinced to give Rusev space to get the bell rung. The match began as a brawl with Rusev gaining an advantage early and attacking Titus with the same vehemence. As Titus fought back and sent Rusev reeling, Rusev decided to walk out, taking his title.
However, O'Neil came running in as the two hit simultaneous clotheslines on the outside. Titus then threw Rusev into the timekeeper's area in order to roll back in and take a count out victory over the US Champion.
Analysis: Rusev and Titus O'Neil have a solid heated rivalry going right now which made the finish choice a bit odd. The two are showing that they were concerned with hurting one another then Titus just took a cheap, somewhat meaningless win rather than continuing to fight with Rusev who was already ready to walk out on the match and lose by count out.
This is basically a case of misappropriation. Certainly Rusev has sold the idea that he doesn't believe Titus O'Neil can beat him, but he already has shown he can scare Rusev. They should have been focusing on that with his hoss battle. The match itself here was their best yet, feeling like a true brawl.
However, O'Neil came running in as the two hit simultaneous clotheslines on the outside. Titus then threw Rusev into the timekeeper's area in order to roll back in and take a count out victory over the US Champion.
Analysis: Rusev and Titus O'Neil have a solid heated rivalry going right now which made the finish choice a bit odd. The two are showing that they were concerned with hurting one another then Titus just took a cheap, somewhat meaningless win rather than continuing to fight with Rusev who was already ready to walk out on the match and lose by count out.
This is basically a case of misappropriation. Certainly Rusev has sold the idea that he doesn't believe Titus O'Neil can beat him, but he already has shown he can scare Rusev. They should have been focusing on that with his hoss battle. The match itself here was their best yet, feeling like a true brawl.
It's all not quite the same without Jon Stewart.
Seth Rollins def. John Cena; The Good Guy Completely Loses His Game with The Sight of His Rival
Overview: Seth Rollins locked up with John Cena and quickly stuck a headlock with Cena throwing him off. The two locked up again with Rollins beating down on Cena, sending him to the mat. He threw John into the ropes and hit a dropkick. He stalked Cena but took a Cena dropkick for his efforts. Cena Irish whipped Rollins into the corner but ran into a knee from Rollins followed by a blockbuster for two.
Cena fought out of a chinlock then began rolling with shoulder tackles. He set up the five knuckle shuffle but took a kick to the face that sent him stumbling to the floor with Rollins making sure to taunt him as he tried to recover. The two fought back to the ring with Rollins missing a diving move and almost taking a STF.
Cena hit the series of shoulder tackles and slam and blocked Rollins' kick, slamming him again then hitting the five knuckle shuffle. Rollins knocked Cena to the floor and hit a superkick. The two fought to the top rope with Cena hitting a diving DDT for a nearfall.
The two both fought to their feet with Rollins hitting an enzuigiri for a nearfall. The two exchanged punches and kicks with Rollins winning with a dropkick. Rollins ran to the top rope but took a series of punches from Cena. Rollins fought Cena off and hit a running powerbomb into the turnbuckle for a nearfall.
Rollins then went for a frog splash, but Cena rolled out of the way. Cena went to the top rope as well, but he was caught for a superplex into the Falcon's Arrow for a very nearfall. Cena fought off a Pedigree and catapulted Rollins into the turnbuckle, quickly hitting an AA only for Rollins to get his foot on the ropes.
Cena went for a second AA, but Rollins fought out of it into a Pedigree that Cena turned into an STF. Rollins almost got to the ropes, but Cena pulled him back into the middle of the ring. Unfortunately for John, The Club appeared and walked down to the ring. The distraction allowed Rollins to hit a sudden Pedigree for the victory.
Analysis: John Cena and Seth Rollins are always great together though this match felt a bit slow for their usual affair. The contest was pretty classic heel domination with Cena making the comeback with the seeming dominance necessary for a win, but then we had the obvious distraction.
This is one of the least effective tropes used repeatedly in WWE. It is an easy way to sell the rivalry between wrestlers, but distractions are always so heavily illogical. Styles cannot do much of anything to cost Cena his match, so the veteran should know not to let his eyes off his opponent.
Cena fought out of a chinlock then began rolling with shoulder tackles. He set up the five knuckle shuffle but took a kick to the face that sent him stumbling to the floor with Rollins making sure to taunt him as he tried to recover. The two fought back to the ring with Rollins missing a diving move and almost taking a STF.
Cena hit the series of shoulder tackles and slam and blocked Rollins' kick, slamming him again then hitting the five knuckle shuffle. Rollins knocked Cena to the floor and hit a superkick. The two fought to the top rope with Cena hitting a diving DDT for a nearfall.
The two both fought to their feet with Rollins hitting an enzuigiri for a nearfall. The two exchanged punches and kicks with Rollins winning with a dropkick. Rollins ran to the top rope but took a series of punches from Cena. Rollins fought Cena off and hit a running powerbomb into the turnbuckle for a nearfall.
Rollins then went for a frog splash, but Cena rolled out of the way. Cena went to the top rope as well, but he was caught for a superplex into the Falcon's Arrow for a very nearfall. Cena fought off a Pedigree and catapulted Rollins into the turnbuckle, quickly hitting an AA only for Rollins to get his foot on the ropes.
Cena went for a second AA, but Rollins fought out of it into a Pedigree that Cena turned into an STF. Rollins almost got to the ropes, but Cena pulled him back into the middle of the ring. Unfortunately for John, The Club appeared and walked down to the ring. The distraction allowed Rollins to hit a sudden Pedigree for the victory.
Analysis: John Cena and Seth Rollins are always great together though this match felt a bit slow for their usual affair. The contest was pretty classic heel domination with Cena making the comeback with the seeming dominance necessary for a win, but then we had the obvious distraction.
This is one of the least effective tropes used repeatedly in WWE. It is an easy way to sell the rivalry between wrestlers, but distractions are always so heavily illogical. Styles cannot do much of anything to cost Cena his match, so the veteran should know not to let his eyes off his opponent.
We have reached the point in WWE where the New Era is symbolized by a crowd doing the wave as these two destroy no name wrestlers.
Enzo and Cass def. Local Competitors; Always Have Your Money Makers Selling Their Catchphrases
Overview: Enzo and Big Cass sold their usual chant and made the crowd do the Wave as they destroyed two local competitors in a matter of seconds. The Social Outcasts made their big return to try and make a big statement against the newcomers to WWE, but they were made fun of and thrown out of the ring who then called them SAWFT.
Analysis: Enzo and Cass are the most over tag team in WWE. In fact, they're among the most over acts in all of WWE. They certainly didn't need to squash a few nameless competitors, but they did. Why? Well, that is probably because WWE had nothing else for them to do, and the company couldn't not have them on Raw.
While New Day and The Wyatt Family are busy fighting, Enzo and Cass can't not be on TV. They sell too much merchandise with every appearance. Thus they went out on TV, made a new crowd reaction for them by adding the Wave, and destroying both two local competitors and the returning Social Outcasts. If that was the beginning of a rivalry, the Outcasts certainly aren't going to be winning any match in this competition.
Analysis: Enzo and Cass are the most over tag team in WWE. In fact, they're among the most over acts in all of WWE. They certainly didn't need to squash a few nameless competitors, but they did. Why? Well, that is probably because WWE had nothing else for them to do, and the company couldn't not have them on Raw.
While New Day and The Wyatt Family are busy fighting, Enzo and Cass can't not be on TV. They sell too much merchandise with every appearance. Thus they went out on TV, made a new crowd reaction for them by adding the Wave, and destroying both two local competitors and the returning Social Outcasts. If that was the beginning of a rivalry, the Outcasts certainly aren't going to be winning any match in this competition.
You're stealing Titus' feud gimmick, Becky! On second thought, you should just keep doing that. Maybe they'll keep booking you like a wrestler instead of "just a woman".
The Goody Toe Shoes Has Had Enough and Lets Loose on Her Rival
Overview: Before his announced match against Summer Rae, Becky Lynch lost it and assaulted Natalya who was watching on commentary. She repeatedly beat down on Natalya until a referee had to separate Lynch from Natalya who walked to the back.
Analysis: The best babyfaces are the ones that are not bound by the ties of their gimmick. In general, Becky Lynch is a happy, pun throwing face who wants to make friends and fight. Natalya though has finally caused Lynch to break, losing it against Natalya with reckless abandon, even forgetting her own scheduled match. This is a strong way to sell how heated a rivalry is.
It is great to have Lynch vs. Natalya as a real second women's feud. In fact, it is shaping up as more interesting so far over the title feud. The women's division will benefit from selling this feud with the same fervor of an upper midcard feud for the men.
Analysis: The best babyfaces are the ones that are not bound by the ties of their gimmick. In general, Becky Lynch is a happy, pun throwing face who wants to make friends and fight. Natalya though has finally caused Lynch to break, losing it against Natalya with reckless abandon, even forgetting her own scheduled match. This is a strong way to sell how heated a rivalry is.
It is great to have Lynch vs. Natalya as a real second women's feud. In fact, it is shaping up as more interesting so far over the title feud. The women's division will benefit from selling this feud with the same fervor of an upper midcard feud for the men.
I'm still confused what purpose Chris Jericho served her even though he was the best part.
Two Rivals Recant Their History Ahead of Their Final Clash
Overview: Chris Jericho demanded the crowd to be quiet for the Highlight Reel before saying his two guests were ruining their own lives and his (by allowing Dean Ambrose to win the Money in the Bank contract) through their hatred. He wanted to put a stop to all this, so he brought out first Kevin Owens then Sami Zayn. The two glared each other down as Jericho tried to stir the pot.
Zayn refused to be teased into a fight as he was only in the ring for one reason: to put an end to this rivalry finally at WWE Battleground. He called Owens a coward who was frustrated with Zayn's accomplishments ahead of him. KO finally spoke up and said the truth was that Zayn was the true problem in their friendship.
He blamed their friendship's end on Zayn's pettiness with KO then agreed to a match at Battleground. Jericho was excited to have the match announced on his show but quickly began egging on Zayn, saying he made Jericho sick by not realizing the crowd's opinions don't matter.
Jericho made it all about him, giving the crowd the Gift of Jericho. It annoyed both men so much that they hit simultaneous superkicks to shut him up. Owens walked out first, letting Zayn watch him leave.
Analysis: As with all great story arcs, it is important to cleverly recall history before setting up the final clash. Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens' rivalry has already raged long throughout WWE, and they need to have one final showdown to settle their differences and move on, at least for now.
They were both excellent here with Zayn especially stepping up on the mic to fuel his rage on the mic over all that Kevin has done to him. Even if they couldn't go into their true past, they alluded to it well and hit on the power points of their rivalry in NXT and WWE.
I would hope that the two get a true blowoff match stipulation to make this feel like the final fight. Last Man Standing, Falls Count Anywhere, or even just a pure Street Fight would be enough to sell this as the last chapter for these two, at least until circumstances change.
Zayn refused to be teased into a fight as he was only in the ring for one reason: to put an end to this rivalry finally at WWE Battleground. He called Owens a coward who was frustrated with Zayn's accomplishments ahead of him. KO finally spoke up and said the truth was that Zayn was the true problem in their friendship.
He blamed their friendship's end on Zayn's pettiness with KO then agreed to a match at Battleground. Jericho was excited to have the match announced on his show but quickly began egging on Zayn, saying he made Jericho sick by not realizing the crowd's opinions don't matter.
Jericho made it all about him, giving the crowd the Gift of Jericho. It annoyed both men so much that they hit simultaneous superkicks to shut him up. Owens walked out first, letting Zayn watch him leave.
Analysis: As with all great story arcs, it is important to cleverly recall history before setting up the final clash. Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens' rivalry has already raged long throughout WWE, and they need to have one final showdown to settle their differences and move on, at least for now.
They were both excellent here with Zayn especially stepping up on the mic to fuel his rage on the mic over all that Kevin has done to him. Even if they couldn't go into their true past, they alluded to it well and hit on the power points of their rivalry in NXT and WWE.
I would hope that the two get a true blowoff match stipulation to make this feel like the final fight. Last Man Standing, Falls Count Anywhere, or even just a pure Street Fight would be enough to sell this as the last chapter for these two, at least until circumstances change.
Welcome back to WWE, Miz. While you were gone, apparently everything went back to normal including the treatment of your title.
Kane def. The Miz By Count Out, The Miz Remains Intercontinental Champion; Cowardly Bad Guy Uses An Excuse to Avoid Facing Angry, Dominant Foe
Overview: The Miz came out for his title match against a mystery opponent only for it be revealed that it was Demon Kane. Miz came out swinging, but he struggled to go after the legs as he nearly got chokeslammed then ran into a big boot. Kane repeatedly splashed Miz in each corner then stomped on Miz for good measure.
Kane hit a delayed suplex then a running dropkick for two. Miz ran right into a right hand to the face then almost got chokeslammed. Maryse distracted Kane then fell off the apron, seemingly injuring her knee. Miz slapped the neck of Kane against the ropes then grabbed his "injured" wife and walked out to have her checked up on.
Analysis: This was the weakest part of the night which is a shame given that the Intercontinental Championship has been such a great part of the show up to when Miz left to shoot The Marine 5. Coming back to a feud with Kane is just a waste of the title, perhaps signaling that the titles status is about to fall with the brand split.
Worse, the match was so much a trope all its own that you could have predicted the entire match. Miz comes in high and mighty even against a monster, but he just can't beat this behemoth of a threat, and his wife pulls a fast one to allow him an excuse for escaping without losing his gold. Cowardly heel runs from a fight.
Kane hit a delayed suplex then a running dropkick for two. Miz ran right into a right hand to the face then almost got chokeslammed. Maryse distracted Kane then fell off the apron, seemingly injuring her knee. Miz slapped the neck of Kane against the ropes then grabbed his "injured" wife and walked out to have her checked up on.
Analysis: This was the weakest part of the night which is a shame given that the Intercontinental Championship has been such a great part of the show up to when Miz left to shoot The Marine 5. Coming back to a feud with Kane is just a waste of the title, perhaps signaling that the titles status is about to fall with the brand split.
Worse, the match was so much a trope all its own that you could have predicted the entire match. Miz comes in high and mighty even against a monster, but he just can't beat this behemoth of a threat, and his wife pulls a fast one to allow him an excuse for escaping without losing his gold. Cowardly heel runs from a fight.
Only Sheamus could be so annoying he could break the international heel code of friendship.
Cesaro and Apollo Crews def. Sheamus and Alberto Del Rio; Overconfident Bad Guy Gets Left Alone to Get Beat Down By A Possible Ally
Overview: Sheamus refused to fight Apollo Crews early and let Alberto Del Rio get beat down by Crews then Cesaro. Cesaro hit Del Rio with an uppercut train then went for a giant swing with Sheamus making the save before the swing could begin. Del Rio stopped Cesaro from swinging Sheamus as well then hit an enzuigiri and DDT on Cesaro.
Del Rio trapped Cesaro in the tree of woe, but Sheamus tagged in before a double foot stomp. Sheamus dominated Cesaro including hitting an Irish Curse Backbreaker for a nearfall. Sheamus teased ADR and refused to tag in his partner.
Cesaro got separation, forcing both to tag in their partners. Sheamus kept trash talking on the apron until ADR hit a slap of a tag on Sheamus and an enzuigiri. He walked out and left Sheamus to take a standing sit out powerbomb for the loss.
Analysis: This match was fairly standard for the most part. Each side of the match got their chance to dominate, and the big moments were too sparse. However, the twist for this match was the best part. Instead of the usual faces and heels getting along with their partners, WWE actually sold the history of Sheamus and Del Rio to the max.
The clash between the two was a better story than the actual feud going on between Sheamus and Apollo Crews, and surprisingly the crowd seemed to readily accept Del Rio when he acted out in a near face manner. I would hope though that doesn't mean WWE will consider turning Del Rio who is the blandest of faces.
Del Rio trapped Cesaro in the tree of woe, but Sheamus tagged in before a double foot stomp. Sheamus dominated Cesaro including hitting an Irish Curse Backbreaker for a nearfall. Sheamus teased ADR and refused to tag in his partner.
Cesaro got separation, forcing both to tag in their partners. Sheamus kept trash talking on the apron until ADR hit a slap of a tag on Sheamus and an enzuigiri. He walked out and left Sheamus to take a standing sit out powerbomb for the loss.
Analysis: This match was fairly standard for the most part. Each side of the match got their chance to dominate, and the big moments were too sparse. However, the twist for this match was the best part. Instead of the usual faces and heels getting along with their partners, WWE actually sold the history of Sheamus and Del Rio to the max.
The clash between the two was a better story than the actual feud going on between Sheamus and Apollo Crews, and surprisingly the crowd seemed to readily accept Del Rio when he acted out in a near face manner. I would hope though that doesn't mean WWE will consider turning Del Rio who is the blandest of faces.
I still don't understand what unicorns have to do with New Day's gimmick. It's okay though because I also still don't get the sheep mask thing with The Wyatt Family. It balances out.
Rivals Clash Over Ideology With One Man Showing Uncertainty
Overview: The Wyatt Family seemed to be making their usual entrance, but it turned out to be New Day who mocked the Wyatt Family opening. The three men roasted The Wyatt Family as they walked to the ring while also being frustrated about The Wyatt Family negativity. Xavier Woods tried to convince them to wrap up after not even speaking, but they refused to stop.
This brought out the actual Wyatt Family with Wyatt finding the message of New Day to be too positive. He was around to tell the crowd about what they needed to know, and New Day were distorting the truth. Wyatt turned to Woods, promising to help Xavier which seemed to truly shake Woods.
Wyatt ended by promising once more that New Day would fall.
Analysis: The New Day and The Wyatt Family feud has been cool so far in how direct a clash of ideologies it is. Usually Wyatt spends much of his feuds spouting riddles that don't hold firm to the story, but this one has allowed Wyatt to speak clear about what these two sides are fighting over.
That clash of ideology is the defining line in this feud which is fascinating as WWE usually seems to avoid boiling down a feud like this. They usually just let it go from good guy - bad guy to two heated rivals. Having this ideology clash also allows natural dissension in the ranks as Woods seems to be slowing getting swayed by cult leader Wyatt.
This feud is really a great thing for the tag team division even if it isn't great for Wyatt. WWE is getting creative with these guys, and it is helping them stand out.
This brought out the actual Wyatt Family with Wyatt finding the message of New Day to be too positive. He was around to tell the crowd about what they needed to know, and New Day were distorting the truth. Wyatt turned to Woods, promising to help Xavier which seemed to truly shake Woods.
Wyatt ended by promising once more that New Day would fall.
Analysis: The New Day and The Wyatt Family feud has been cool so far in how direct a clash of ideologies it is. Usually Wyatt spends much of his feuds spouting riddles that don't hold firm to the story, but this one has allowed Wyatt to speak clear about what these two sides are fighting over.
That clash of ideology is the defining line in this feud which is fascinating as WWE usually seems to avoid boiling down a feud like this. They usually just let it go from good guy - bad guy to two heated rivals. Having this ideology clash also allows natural dissension in the ranks as Woods seems to be slowing getting swayed by cult leader Wyatt.
This feud is really a great thing for the tag team division even if it isn't great for Wyatt. WWE is getting creative with these guys, and it is helping them stand out.
Big Match John is on his way back to take his spot atop the main event, and he's steamrolling through. Thanks, Roman.
Dean Ambrose def. AJ Styles; Bad Guys Always Go For the Cheap Shot
Overview: Seth Rollins watched this match on commentary. Dean Ambrose and AJ Styles locked up and continued to shift control with a few quick roll ups. Styles struggled to get out of Dean's grip, finally hitting a series of chops only to nearly take Dirty Deeds and stumble backward in surprise. The two circled once more with Styles trying to figure out Ambrose.
Styles found his opening and began wearing down Ambrose. He threw q series of wicked strikes followed by a flying lariat for two. Styles then locked in an arm bar with Styles fighting out with a headbutt. He then threw Styles' face first into the top rope. The two landed simultaneous clotheslines followed by a quick fisherman suplex for two by Ambrose.
Styles then took a neckbreaker for a nearfall. Ambrose then missed a dive from the top rope and went for a backslide for another nearfall. Ambrose used a jacknife for another nearfall only for Styles to plant Ambrose for a nearfall of his own. Ambrose caught Styles on the top rope and hit a double underhook superplex.
Ambrose hit a splash then went for a bulldog but got bombed into the mat by Styles for a very nearfall. Styles went for a Phenomenal Forearm right into a kick then a Dirty Deeds attempt. Ambrose went off the top rope only to be caught mid air by his knee. Styles then locked in the Calf Crusher on the hurt knee.
Dean made it to the ropes just barely. Styles ran toward Ambrose only to get thrown over with Ambrose then hitting a hobbling suicide dive. Styles rolled through a diving elbow into a roll up for two. Styles hit a pele kick with Ambrose immediately hitting a rebound clothesline.
The Club ran to the ring to distract Ambrose to take a near brainbuster for a nearfall. John Cena then attacked The Club, distracting Styles to take a Dirty Deeds for a victory. Afterward, The Club assaulted Cena while Rollins planted Ambrose with a Pedigree. The Club then hit the Magic Killer on Cena onto the stage while Rollins hit a second Pedigree and stood tall with the WWE Championship.
Analysis: This was probably the best match of the night as AJ and Dean had a strong back and forth style between them. It was cool to see Styles sell how much Ambrose's chaotic style threw him off. Rollins didn't add much on commentary, just harping on how much he wanted Ambrose to suffer yet still win.
The distraction finish was expected once again, but this was accentuated by the heels all getting in their licks. The best way to sell a feud is to let each side stand tall for a time. The heels of course always are the ones who win the brawl when the other guy has his back turned.
The biggest thing here though was reiterating just how big Battleground is going to be for the first time. We have The Shield clash as well as the very likely Cena vs. Styles rematch, both of which should be four star plus spectacles. Who knew a show with such a poor reputation could finally get some love?
Styles found his opening and began wearing down Ambrose. He threw q series of wicked strikes followed by a flying lariat for two. Styles then locked in an arm bar with Styles fighting out with a headbutt. He then threw Styles' face first into the top rope. The two landed simultaneous clotheslines followed by a quick fisherman suplex for two by Ambrose.
Styles then took a neckbreaker for a nearfall. Ambrose then missed a dive from the top rope and went for a backslide for another nearfall. Ambrose used a jacknife for another nearfall only for Styles to plant Ambrose for a nearfall of his own. Ambrose caught Styles on the top rope and hit a double underhook superplex.
Ambrose hit a splash then went for a bulldog but got bombed into the mat by Styles for a very nearfall. Styles went for a Phenomenal Forearm right into a kick then a Dirty Deeds attempt. Ambrose went off the top rope only to be caught mid air by his knee. Styles then locked in the Calf Crusher on the hurt knee.
Dean made it to the ropes just barely. Styles ran toward Ambrose only to get thrown over with Ambrose then hitting a hobbling suicide dive. Styles rolled through a diving elbow into a roll up for two. Styles hit a pele kick with Ambrose immediately hitting a rebound clothesline.
The Club ran to the ring to distract Ambrose to take a near brainbuster for a nearfall. John Cena then attacked The Club, distracting Styles to take a Dirty Deeds for a victory. Afterward, The Club assaulted Cena while Rollins planted Ambrose with a Pedigree. The Club then hit the Magic Killer on Cena onto the stage while Rollins hit a second Pedigree and stood tall with the WWE Championship.
Analysis: This was probably the best match of the night as AJ and Dean had a strong back and forth style between them. It was cool to see Styles sell how much Ambrose's chaotic style threw him off. Rollins didn't add much on commentary, just harping on how much he wanted Ambrose to suffer yet still win.
The distraction finish was expected once again, but this was accentuated by the heels all getting in their licks. The best way to sell a feud is to let each side stand tall for a time. The heels of course always are the ones who win the brawl when the other guy has his back turned.
The biggest thing here though was reiterating just how big Battleground is going to be for the first time. We have The Shield clash as well as the very likely Cena vs. Styles rematch, both of which should be four star plus spectacles. Who knew a show with such a poor reputation could finally get some love?
Stephanie would like to repeatedly inform us all not to tune into the show because it is abomination headed by Dean Ambrose as champion.
Final Notes: Corporate Kane found Stephanie McMahon backstage and heavily campaigned for a shot at power in WWE. The Miz and Maryse walked in and announced their return which led to Kane suggesting Miz should defend his Intercontinental Championship tonight which Stephanie agreed with, making him defend against a mystery opponent.
Bob Backlund and Darren Young talked about making this new era the Darren Young Era. WWE also did a nice, quick segment putting over the Special Olympics through the Play Unified campaign. The Miz and Maryse got to the back after Miz's match, and Maryse showed she was just acting which Miz called an award worthy performance that seemingly surprised him.
Dean Ambrose was interviewed about being WWE World Heavyweight Champion. He was loving being champion because he got to face the best in the world every night including AJ Styles tonight. Stephanie McMahon interrupted and again said she was appalled by Ambrose being the face of WWE, hoping he lost tonight to get one step closer to losing the championship.
Kofi Kingston and Big E kept joking around about The Wyatt Family in an interview with Xavier Woods walking out silently.
Conclusion: Tropes uses or not, this was the second absolutely quality Raw. There were some issues in the undercard particularly an unfortunate decision revolving around the Intercontinental Championship, but it was overall a night for good wrestling and solid storytelling development.
This week truly felt like WWE ramping up toward a final big show before the WWE draft. WWE Battleground has a bad reputation, but it has fallen on the perfect time, just ahead of a massive change in WWE. It will be the final PPV of the pre-brand split WWE, and that means WWE is going all out.
If that continues to mean top notch wrestling every week and heated conflict between bitter rivals, I am all in for Raw and may not even need themes/gimmicks to get through reviewing them.
Bob Backlund and Darren Young talked about making this new era the Darren Young Era. WWE also did a nice, quick segment putting over the Special Olympics through the Play Unified campaign. The Miz and Maryse got to the back after Miz's match, and Maryse showed she was just acting which Miz called an award worthy performance that seemingly surprised him.
Dean Ambrose was interviewed about being WWE World Heavyweight Champion. He was loving being champion because he got to face the best in the world every night including AJ Styles tonight. Stephanie McMahon interrupted and again said she was appalled by Ambrose being the face of WWE, hoping he lost tonight to get one step closer to losing the championship.
Kofi Kingston and Big E kept joking around about The Wyatt Family in an interview with Xavier Woods walking out silently.
Conclusion: Tropes uses or not, this was the second absolutely quality Raw. There were some issues in the undercard particularly an unfortunate decision revolving around the Intercontinental Championship, but it was overall a night for good wrestling and solid storytelling development.
This week truly felt like WWE ramping up toward a final big show before the WWE draft. WWE Battleground has a bad reputation, but it has fallen on the perfect time, just ahead of a massive change in WWE. It will be the final PPV of the pre-brand split WWE, and that means WWE is going all out.
If that continues to mean top notch wrestling every week and heated conflict between bitter rivals, I am all in for Raw and may not even need themes/gimmicks to get through reviewing them.