The final episode of WWE Raw on USA Network marked the end of an era and set the stage for its new chapter on Netflix. While the night delivered some memorable moments, it also highlighted a few long-standing issues.
1. Lyra Valkyria vs. IYO SKY
- What We Loved:
- The semifinal clash in the Women’s Intercontinental Championship tournament was a masterclass in women’s wrestling.
- Both Valkyria and SKY showcased exceptional skill, with SKY’s technical prowess matched by Valkyria’s resilience.
- The match elevated Valkyria, giving her a signature win over a decorated former champion.
- The Houston crowd was fully engaged, making the match feel significant.
- This sets up an exciting final between Valkyria and Dakota Kai, offering fresh opportunities for storytelling.
- What Could Have Been Better:
- The messy finish detracted from the match’s immersion, leaving a slightly sour note on an otherwise brilliant contest.
2. CM Punk and Seth Rollins’ Promo Segment
- What We Loved:
- This promo was a war of words steeped in real-life animosity, making it one of the most compelling segments of the night.
- Punk’s allusions to Vince McMahon, Steve Austin, and Rollins’ history added depth and realism.
- Rollins played the perfect foil, referencing Punk’s AEW stint and his perceived hypocrisy.
- The tension built since Punk’s return at Survivor Series 2023 exploded in a way that left fans eager for their match next week.
3. A Proper Farewell to Cable
- What We Loved:
- WWE honored Raw’s legacy on USA Network with segments featuring iconic Superstars like New Day, Jey Uso, and Drew McIntyre.
- The opening segment blended nostalgia with current storylines, paying homage to Raw’s roots while pushing forward.
- The presence of Raw’s cornerstone Superstars, Seth Rollins and CM Punk, in the main event segment gave the show a fitting sendoff.
Things We Hated
1. Pete Dunne vs. R-Truth Feud
- Why We Hated It:
- This feud has overstayed its welcome, with Dunne’s attacks on Truth feeling repetitive and uninspired.
- Dunne’s repeated declarations of “I’m nobody’s Butch” lack impact and have become tiresome.
- Truth’s comedic character, typically a highlight, feels misused in this storyline.
- WWE missed an opportunity to wrap this up cleanly, instead dragging it out unnecessarily.
2. Judgment Day vs. War Raiders Stagnation
- Why We Hated It:
- The repetitive booking of this feud has drained it of excitement.
- The six-man tag match followed a predictable formula: interference, Judgment Day’s defeat, and a post-match beatdown.
- Damian Priest’s character has shown awareness of the repetitive nature of Judgment Day’s tactics, but the booking refuses to evolve.
- Without a fresh direction, this storyline risks losing fan interest entirely.
3. Mishandling of Chad Gable vs. Otis Feud
- Why We Hated It:
- Gable and Otis have been feuding since June 2024, and their rivalry has overstayed its welcome.
- While their match was technically excellent, it felt misplaced on the final cable episode of Raw.
- Ivy Nile’s interference and Gable’s dirty win suggest the feud will continue, frustrating fans who hoped for closure.
- WWE’s failure to showcase this feud on major platforms like SummerSlam or Survivor Series is a disservice to both men.
- The feud, once promising, now feels like a weekly TV filler.