5 Ups & 8 Downs From WWE Raw (May 17)

by Andy H Murray

1. Despite Everything, Ricochet Vs. Sheamus Ruled

Sheamus Ricochet
WWE.com

Saddling Ricochet with dopy gimmicks like his recent reinvention as Man Who Steals Clothes isn't how you get the guy over. Focusing on his exemplary work between the ropes is, and his latest Sheamus match was a triumph in that regard.

Flattened on the WrestleMania Backlash Kickoff Show, the United States Title challenger put up more of a fight here. He and Sheamus worked a fun clash of styles that paired the Irishman's stiff, bruising offense against Ricochet's superior quickness and agility. It was so effective that the nearfalls were believable despite Ricochet entering with no realistic chance of winning, particularly off his springboard 450 splash, and more complex sequences like Sheamus knocking his opponent out of the sky with a knee were executed with the required level of precision.

A particularly savage Brogue Kick almost took Ricochet's head off the finish. Sheamus reclaimed his garments after the bell, hopefully putting an end to this rotten two-day Ricochet run.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.