7 Ups & 8 Downs From WWE Raw: In Your Face (Sep 14)
6. Kevin Owens Is Great
A special shout-out to Kevin Owens and his hard work last night, as he continues to thrive in a restrictive Sports Entertainment universe.
KO entered an excellent defensive performance against Aleister Black, selling his skin off for his rival, further establishing himself as one of the company's better in-ring storytellers. He was money on the microphone, too. Owens met with Sarah Schreiber ahead of the bout, saying he didn't know why Aleister was angry with him, speculating that it might be because Hot Topic wouldn't honour his coupon for a t-shirt of "some band that screams nonsense." He promised to beat the Dutchman back into his dark little hiding spot and remind him what happens when you pick a fight with KO, adding that he wasn't worried about how he was going to do these things - because he's Kevin Owens.
This strong, bullish promo was counter-balanced by the vulnerability shown by Owens in the ring, showcasing his character's full range. A good night for him, despite the booking.