Monday Night Raw has been on a bit of a slippery slope as of late, as viewership continues to decline. While this weeks edition of Raw has been praised by fans for being at least better than the previous weeks episodes, it seems that the WWE is fearful they may have angered a certain sect of their fanbase. WWE has issued an official apology for the segment between the Big Show and Rusev. At the end of the segment, Big Show tore down the Russian flag. The company stated on their website that they wish to apologize to the Russian people for the incident on Monday Night Raw. The statement goes on to add that the company did not want the incident to be construed as disrespect for nations flag. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hLWNLE7HNw The segment in question featured the continuation of the current storyline between Rusev and the Big Show. During the segment, a giant Russian flag dropped from the rafters while Lana spoke on behalf of Rusev. Later, the 7 400-plus pound Big Show entered the ring and chased Rusev off. With the Russian flag hanging there, Show grabbed the enormous piece of cloth and ripped it down. Interestingly, the WWEs apology comes across a little strangely. Included with the official statement is a video of the incident, as well as a link to subscribe to the WWE Network. It seems entirely possible that the segment was done to create controversy in an attempt to attract new viewers. However, it should be made clear that this is just speculation. Was anyone offended by the Russian flag segment on Raw, or is the WWE just playing it safe? Furthermore, is the companys apology sincere or a simple attempt to gain some more publicity? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Douglas Scarpa is a freelance writer, independent filmmaker, art school graduate, and pro wrestling aficionado -- all of which mean he is in financial ruin. He has no backup plan to speak of, yet maintains his abnormally high spirits. If he had only listened to the scorn of his childhood teachers, he wouldn't be in this situation.
