6 Ups & 3 Downs From WWE Raw (4 May - Results & Review)

1. Fatu Puts Roman Down

Jacob Fatu might be headed for the dreaded “first challenger for a new champion” outcome at Backlash, but he is not getting short-changed during this quick build.

Roman Reigns and Fatu signed their contract for the World Heavyweight Championship match this weekend, with the 'Tribal Chief' berating his “little cousin” for using the Tongan Death Grip last week and not adhering to a family code of conduct. He talked down to Jacob, which only fuelled Fatu’s contention that he “feels like it’s me against the world” and he has no choice but to take Roman out and snatch the title.

Reigns continued to belittle Fatu, finally saying that Jacob was beneath him, which triggered the 'Samoan Werewolf' to attack, repeatedly going for the Tongan Death Grip. Roman fought it off a few times, but as he lunged for a Superman Punch, Fatu locked the goozle in and choked out Reigns, who gasped and faded with his eyes bulging as he struggled.

Jacob then slammed Roman on (not through) the table and flipped it over on top of the champ before signing the contract as fans chanted “Fatu.”

As long as the title bout matches the intensity and execution of the past 2 weeks, then Fatu is going to be elevated regardless of the outcome. Reigns has given him plenty here and set him up incredibly well to succeed, and their mini-feud has thrived as a result.