6 Ups & 4 Downs From WWE Raw (7 August)
Rollins, Ripley, Gunther's next challengers revealed, impromptu matches galore.
SummerSlam might have been a major show on WWE’s calendar, but the company very clearly pushed past the biggest party of the summer Monday night, turning the page and setting the table for several new feuds.
The fallout from Saturday’s PLE was evident, with the results informing character direction, but rather than languishing in it or seemingly setting up rematches, WWE charted new paths for the World Heavyweight Championship, Women’s World Championship and Intercontinental Championship, while also kicking off a couple of grudge feuds.
Seth Rollins’ next title challenger made his presence felt in the main event, leaving little doubt that he’s not going to be overlooked any longer. Gunter’s next opponent won a fun fatal four-way match to earn his title shot. And Rhea Ripley found out that multiple women are ready to pick a fight with her.
But shockingly, one of the biggest highlights had to be the Miz and LA Knight squaring off. They got personal without emptying the clip and actually left fans wanting to see more between the two, which is impressive given that Miz hasn’t been “must-see” in ages.
Raw also featured several impromptu matches, and one of the most cliché-filled, trope-laden opening segments in recent memory. But that wasn’t enough to derail an above-average show that kicked off some new directions for superstars.
Let’s get to it…