6 Ups & 4 Downs For WWE Raw (28 July - Results & Review)

4. A Stumble, But Then A Strong Recovery

Lyra Valkyria has not exactly been on fire when she touches the mic. She’s held her own against Becky Lynch, but her promos are still a work in progress.

Fortunately, WWE is booking to her strengths and avoiding the idiot babyface tropes that have defined this company for two decades.

Monday, Lyra came out to show off her new platform sneakers (“They’re my Becky stompers.”) and pointed out that Lynch will have to beat her into the ground to keep her Intercontinental Championship. Valkyria said she’s seen everything Becky has done, but Lynch doesn’t know what Lyra is capable of.

That’s when Lynch’s music hit, with Lyra positioning herself for the entranceway attack. Suddenly, Valkyria hit the ropes and dropkicked an unsuspecting Lynch on the floor. She then pummeled her with a kendo stick Becky had brought to the ring.

While Lyra might not be a strong promo, she has been a more-than-capable wrestler. That is how she has connected with fans, so WWE is wise to have her show her character through action. Valkyria said she knows what Becky is going to do, and seconds later, she anticipates a sneak attack and cuts her off.

Verbal stumbles aside, Lyra is cementing herself as a vital part of the women’s division. She still is an unfinished product, but there’s a lot to like. She and Becky could easily have the sleeper Match of the Weekend.