WWE Raw
Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky
Cody Rhodes was shown leaving his bus walking into the arena earlier in the day.
Imperium (WWE Intercontinental Champion Gunther, Ludwig Kaiser & Giovanni Vinci) vs. The New Day (Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods) & Jey Uso
Jey Uso, Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods came out to a great reaction. Kaiser and Kofi began exchanging big strikes. Kofi rocked Kaiser with a standing dropkick. Kofi connected with a slingshot splash. Jey rocked Kaiser with a hip attacked. Gunther tagged into the match. Gunther distracted Jey. Vinci took advantage rocking Jey with a running lariat. Gunther rocked Jey with a huge chop. Jey battled back catching Kaiser with backdrop suplex as they returned from commercial. Kofi ran wild planting Vinci with a Famouser. Woods followed hitting a Slingshot DDT. Kofi connected with a flying splash to Vinci for two. Kofi connected with the Boom Drop to Vinci. Kofi called for Trouble in Paradise. Kaiser grabbed hold onto Kofi’s leg. Vinci rocked Kofi with a running boot for two. Gunther placed Kofi in Boston Crab. Jey made the save slapping Gunther. Kofi caught Kaiser with a backdrop as the returned from commercial. Jey ran wild planting Kaiser and Vinci with Samoan Drop. Jey rocked Kaiser and Vinci with hip attacks. Jey nailed Kaiser with a Superkick. Vinci went for a Superkick but Jey caught him with a Superkick. Gunther tagged into the match. Gunther went for a Rainmaker but Jey ducked. Jey caught Gunther with a flying crossbody for two. Jey went for a Spear but Gunther caught him. Gunther rocked Jey with a Rainmaker for a two count. Gunther went for a Super Splash but Jey got his knees up. Jey rocked Gunther with a Spear but Kaiser made the save. Jey rocked Vinci with a Superkick. The New Day and Jey delivered a Combo 1D to Vinci. Kofi connected with a Tope Con Hilo to Kaiser on the floor. Jey delivered an Uso Splash to Vinci for the win.
WINNERS: Jey Uso, Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods
(Amin’s Thoughts) — This was a really good action packed match with everyone working hard. A great showing and win for Jey building him up to challenge Gunther for the WWE Intercontinental Title.
We saw WrestleMania XL Kickoff Event highlights from last week.
We saw an Andrade vignette. Andrade spoke about loving this business. Andrade said he had his first match when he was 13-years old. Andrade spoke about winning the NXT Champion and the WWE United States Title during his first run in WWE. Andrade said the titles weren’t enough. Andrade said he had to leave to remember who he was. Andrade said he’s back. Andrade said he knows the direction is clear.
(Amin’s Thoughts) — This vignette was great as they presented Andrade like a star and a big deal on Raw.
Men’s Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match
Bobby Lashley vs. Bronson Reed
Bobby Lashley came out to a strong reaction with B-Fab and The Street Profits. They only came out for the entrance. Lashley got a big firework display. They aired a new awesome video of Bronson Reed destroying buildings as part of his new entrance. Lashley went for the Hurt Lock but Reed broke free. Lashley rocked Reed with a running clothesline. Reed used Lashley’s momentum sending him crashing into the ring post. Reed took control hitting a flying tackle from the ring apron to the floor. Reed rocked Lashley with corner clothesline as they returned from commercial. Lashley responded catching Reed with a flatliner. Lashley made a comeback planting Reed with a suplex for a two count. Reed responded nailing Lashley with a Superkick. Reed planted Lashley with a Northern Lights Bomb for two. Lashley caught Reed charging with a Spinebuster for two. Reed responded catching Lashley with a uranage slam. Reed called for the Tsunami. Lashley made a comeback tossing Reed off the turnbuckle. Lashley rocked Reed with a Spear for the win.
WINNER: Bobby Lashley
(Amin’s Thoughts) — This was a good back and forth match. A really good showing from Reed having a competitive match with Lashley. I would like to seen Reed win with Elimination Chamber talking place in his home country. This was a great win for Lashley as his power spots with Reed looked impressive.
We saw highlights of Cody Rhodes beating Shinsuke Nakamura last week on Raw in a Bull Rope match. Drew McIntyre attacked Cody after the match.
Shinsuke Nakamura / Sami Zayn Segment
Jackie Redmond had a sit-down interview with Sami Zayn earlier in the day. Sami said when you speak to any contender who comes up short feels like a moment of embarrassment. Sami said a part of him feels embarrassed not beating Drew McIntyre last week on Raw. Sami said he had much stronger feeling of belief within himself. Sami said last time this year he was standing inside the ring with Cody Rhodes on Raw. Sami said he told Cody he had believe in himself he wanted to main event WrestleMania. Sami said that belief carried himself to the WrestleMania main event. Sami said he is a contender and will be a champion. Sami said it’s not an easy path. Sami said it’s a path he’s willing to walk to get there.
Shinsuke Nakamura appeared on the screen. Nakamura spoke in Japanese with English subtitles. Nakamura said “Sami what’s wrong with you? You’ve had the glory. The moments. Have you forgotten that? But you act like you are in misery. You want people’s sympathy. Such a clever guy you are. Just like Cody. But, I would love to see your true self in the ring tonight. The real you that tries to swindle people and stay in the spotlight. But if you don’t let your real emotions out…I won’t tolerate it. Your chance is gone. But don’t worry. I will pick up your soul, and continue my warpath forward.
(Amin’s Thoughts) — There are going to tell the story of Sami’s chase to him winning his first WWE World Title. They have a great story here with Sami beating McIntyre to win his first World Title. This was also good to see Nakamura still getting lots of shine and showcased on the show.
Cody Rhodes / Seth Rollins Segment
Cody Rhodes came out to a huge reaction and awesome firework display. The WOAHHH are getting louder. Cody signed autographs for fans at ringside. Huge Cody chants. Cody asked the fans what they wanted to talk about? Cody said he could talk about challenging Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania. Huge Cody chants. Cody said it took him a while to say that. Cody said he could say that because of the fans. Cody spoke about the fans engagement on social media. The fans chanted “We Want Cody!” Cody wasn’t sure how to repay the fans. Cody smiled as he looked at the WrestleMania sign. Cody spoke about wearing his emotions on his sleeves. Cody said he didn’t want to get emotional because it would be “crybaby.” The fans booed loudly. Huge chants of “Rocky Sucks!” Cody said there’s one person who didn’t want to hear “We Want Cody” chants. Cody spoke about The Rock as a potential Presidential candidate, the original People’s Champion is the same man who came with “Cody Crybabies!” Cody showed clips of The Rock on Pat McAfee Show. Cody said promo’s are different. Cody asked what are we suppose with the nuggets? Cody looked at Pat McAfee and asked what to do with the nuggets. Cody said at some point everyone was fans of The Rock. There were light boos. Cody said he didn’t to upset his ancestors at the WrestleMania XL Kickoff event. Cody said The Rock slapped him in public. Cody said Roman Reigns and The Rock together is the perfect story. Cody looked into the camera saying he’s going to his The Rock back. The fans cheered.
WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins came out to a big reaction. The fans sang along to Rollins theme. The fans cheered as Rollins took a bow. Cody thanked Rollins for coming to his aid at the WrestleMania XL Kickoff event. Rollins said “You’re Welcome!” Rollins said he looked forward to defending the World Heavyweight Title against Cody at WrestleMania. Rollins said he understands Cody decision. Rollins told Cody he had to “Finish The Story!” Rollins said there are millions of people who want to him to finish the story. Rollins told Cody he needs to finish the story for everyone. Rollins said the landscape after WrestleMania will get much darker if Cody doesn’t win. Rollins said Reigns will get more power. Rollins said Cody has to win. Huge Cody chants.
Rollins said Cody is the man for the job. Rollins asked Cody what’s his plan? Rollins said Cody was screwed out the WWE Title at WrestleMania. Rollins said Cody fought his way back and won the Royal Rumble again. Rollins said the deck is stacked against Cody again. Rollins said Cody is dealing with The Rock. The fans booed. This led to “Rocky Sucks” chants. Rollins said Cody doesn’t have to fight alone. Rollins said Cody wanted to take everything from Reigns. Rollins said he felt that. Rollins said that’s why he stood up for Cody. Rollins said he’s tired of these “arrogant entitled pricks” who get to throw their weight around. Rollins said part of him was Reigns has become. Rollins said Reigns is standing next to someone as selfish he is. Rollins told Cody there’s one man who’s uniquely suited to be your Shield. The fans cheered. Rollins said he was once an architect. The fans cheered as Rollins led the them to chant his catchphrase. Rollins music played as he left the ring.
(Amin’s Thoughts) — The fans are completely behind Cody wanting to see him beat Roman Reigns at WrestleMania. I would’ve liked if Cody explained why he gave The Rock his WrestleMania main event match. They have changed directions which is much better. There’s still time before WrestleMania so they could still tell that story. Seth Rollins was awesome here putting over Cody as the biggest babyface star in the company. Rollins wanting to help Cody looks like they are teasing the tag match with Cody vs. The Rock & Roman Reigns for WrestleMania.
Cathy Kelly interviewed Jey Uso and The New Day backstage. Jey Uso was wearing glasses he might gotten from Seth Rollins as we’ve seen his fashion choices. I don’t mind it Rollins makes it work and the fans love him. Cathy noted Gunther will defend the Intercontinental Title next week against Jey. This got Jey and New Day excited. Jey said he got a big win with New Day. Jey vowed to win the IC Title next week. Kofi wore Jey’s glasses. The walked off hyping each other up.
They showed footage of Patrick Mahomes and Isiah Pacheco wearing the replica NFL WWE Championship titles after winning the Super Bowl.
We saw a Liv Morgan vignette. Liv spoke about going on the run of her career. Liv said that was stopped when Rhea Ripley injured her. Liv said she’s going to win the Women’s Elimination Chamber and take everything away from Ripley. Liv said this is the first step on her revenge tour. Liv told us to watch her.
We saw a Zoey Stark vignette. Stark said she’s been making history since coming to Raw. Stark spoke about taking care of Becky Lynch and Trish Stratus. Stark said this is about her showing she’s the baddest woman in the division. Stark said she’s going to WrestleMania.
Women’s Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match
Liv Morgan vs. Zoey Stark
Liv Morgan got a solid babyface reaction. Stark got no entrance. Liv started quickly rocking Stark with strikes. Liv caught Stark with a Popup Hurricanrana. Liv followed rocking Stark with a springboard dropkick. Liv went for a dive but Stark caught her with a right hand. Stark took control planting Liv with a Death Valley Driver on the ring apron. Liv rocked Stark with a rising knee strike as they returned from commercial. Liv caught Stark with a flying Codebreaker for a two count. Stark responded catching Liv with a Running Powerbomb for a two count. Stark connected with a springboard dropkick for a two count. Stark went for Z360 but Liv broke free. Liv caught Stark with a Crucifix Bomb for a two count. Liv went for a Codebreaker but Stark blocked. Stark catapulted Liv into the turnbuckle. Liv caught Stark charging with a double stomp. Stark quickly stopped Liv with a Superkick for a two count. Stark went for a flying corkscrew splash but Liv moved. Liv made a comeback catching Stark with a Codebreaker. Liv followed hitting ObLIVion for the win.
WINNER: Liv Morgan
(Amin’s Thoughts) — This was good match as both Liv and Stark worked well together. A good showing and win for Liv presenting her like a star. Liv as really good matches and just looks like a star. I would like to see Liv get a showcase match at WrestleMania.
Judgment Day was walking backstage. R-Truth appeared walking with Judgment Day. Damian Priest told JD McDonagh he got this. Priest told R-Truth he’s not part of Judgment Day. Priest told R-Truth tonight would be an execution. Judgment Day left. R-Truth looked sad.
R-Truth was on the phone backstage. Adam Pearce appeared telling R-Truth his match is next. R-Truth tried to call The Miz telling him apparently to come from LA to Raw.
JD McDonagh (w/Finn Bálor, Damian Priest & Dominik Mysterio) vs. R-Truth
JD McDonagh came out to a strong heel reaction. R-Truth got a strong babyface reaction. R-Truth was holding a phone in hand. R-Truth started quickly slamming McDonagh into the turnbuckle. The fans chanted JD sucks. R-Truth planted McDonagh with an Attitude Adjustment. The crowd booed as Dominik pulled McDonagh to the floor. R-Truth did John Cena’s signature moves as they returned from commercial. R-Truth connected with the Five Knuckle Shuffle. R-Truth looked in Priest direction calling for Attitude Adjustment but McDonagh broke free. R-Truth went for the Scissors Kick but McDonagh moved. McDonagh caught R-Truth with Devlin’s Side for the win.
WINNER: JD McDonagh
—McDonagh hugged Priest after the match. Balor, Dominik and McDonagh went after R-Truth after the match. R-Truth made his own comeback clearing Judgment Day from the ring. R-Truth and Priest had a stare down. R-Truth stopped McDonagh who tried to go after him. The crowd booed as Priest rocked R-Truth with a forearm smash. The fans cheered as Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa ran down to make the save. The fans chanted DIY.
(Amin’s Thoughts) — This was a fine match. Good to see JD McDonagh get the clean win as they need to heat Judgement Day back up as the top heel faction on Raw. They are still continuing R-Truth’s involvement with Judgment Day. I could see The Miz & R-Truth challenge Balor & Priest for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Tiles at WrestleMania. This way they could also have a WrestleMania tag team showcase for the teams not challenging for the titles.
Sami Zayn was warming up backstage. Cody Rhodes thanked Sami for having his back against Shinsuke Nakamura last week. Sami said he always had Cody’s back. Cody said he heard what Sami said. Cody said he and the fans believe in Sami. Cody offered a handshake. Sami hugged Cody.
Becky Lynch / Rhea Ripley / Nia Jax Segment
Becky Lynch came out a big reaction. Becky pointed to a sign saying she’s going to the prom in 2034. Becky said they are on the Road to WrestleMania. Becky it’s been crazy, wild and unpredictable. Becky said she loved this business. Becky spoke about being inside the wrestling ring a 15-years old. Becky said she went from failing gym class to being in the WrestleMania main event. The fans cheered. Becky spoke how she met her husband and has her daughter from this business. Becky said it’s this obsession with this business which makes you miss stuff. Becky got emotional as she spoke about missing birthdays, weddings and her father’s funeral. Becky spoke about having some difficult conversations with her daughter about why her body is a wreck. Becky said she had to explain why her father wants to fight Maui. (The Rock’s new upcoming animated film). Becky spoke about her daughter going to see her compete in the Elimination Chamber. Becky said her daughter is going to see the brutality her mother is capable of. Becky said she’s obsessed with winning a title she’s hasn’t held in two years. Becky said that starts with winning the Elimination Chamber. Becky put over Rhea Ripley for being one of the most dominant champions. Becky said lots of fans like Mami. Becky said people think nobody can beat her. The fans chanted Mami. Becky said Ripley hasn’t faced someone like her. Becky asked someone to hand her a drink. Becky made a toast for the ride they would go onto WrestleMania. Becky told Ripley to enjoy her last few weeks as champion. Becky took a swig from the drink.
The fans booed as Nia Jax came out. Jax spoke about Becky having their differences. Jax said she had something to say. Jax asked Becky if she can share the ring. Becky agreed. The fans chanted you suck at Jax. Jax got emotional saying she would be lucky if her mom was half the mom that Lynch is. Becky had a skeptical look. Jax said God willing she will become a mother and lead by the example that Becky is. Jax said Becky is going to win the Women’s Elimination Chamber. Jax changed her tone to serious saying there’s nothing going to stop her from beating Rhea Ripley and becoming the Women’s World Champion. Becky smiled at this line.
The fans cheered as Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley came out to a big reaction. A brawl broke out. Ripley rocked Jax with strikes. Jax responded catching Ripley with a head butt. Jax shoved Ripley into Becky against the corner. Jax nailed Ripley with a right hand. Becky caught Jax with a missile dropkick. Becky looked at Ripley’s direction. Ripley shoved Becky nailing Jax with a big boot. Ripley sold her jaw looking at Jax.
(Amin’s Thoughts) — Becky’s promo was great speaking about what wrestling means to her. I guess the idea was Jax was suppose to be a sincere babyface but then turn right back heel. The crowd didn’t buy it as they were loudly booing Jax. The brawl was good presenting Jax a strong challenge for Ripley to beat in her home country at the Elimination Chamber show.
Jackie Redmond interviewed Drew McIntyre backstage. Jackie congratulated McIntyre on qualifying for the Men’s Elimination Chamber match. Jackie noted Cody will face McIntyre next week on Raw. McIntyre said he just wanted to give the fans what they wanted. McIntyre said he pushed Cody in the right direction to facing Roman Reigns at WrestleMania. McIntyre said Rollins was trying to play hero. Mcintyre said Rollins wanted Cody in a match for himself. Mcintyre called Rollins selfish. McIntyre said he had to beat AJ Styles to qualify for the Elimination Chamber. McIntyre said he was doing things the right way. McIntyre told Cody to get out of this match with him. McIntyre said there’s two things Cody should avoid. Mcintyre said Cody should not be McIntyre’s prayers and not face him in match. McIntyre said Cody might not make it to WrestleMania just like Punk. McIntyre smiled.
R-Truth thanked Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa for helping him against Judgment Day. Ciampa noted Miz said R-Truth might need some help. Gargano said they wouldn’t pass up going against Judgment Day. . R-Truth couldn’t believe he was saved by D-Generation X. R-Truth took Ciampa as Triple H and Gargano as Shawn Michaels. R-Truth asked how Road Dogg was doing? R-Truth said he had two words for them. You can hear the fans say “Suck It!” R-Truth said, “No, Thank You!” R-Truth left.
Men’s Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match
LA Knight vs. Ivar (w/Valhalla)
LA Knight came out to a huge babyface reaction. Michael Cole was at it again about Valhalla not wearing the antlers. Valhalla tried to grab at Knight’s leg. Ivar took advantage rocking Knight with knee strikes. Knight battled back catching Ivar with a DDT. Knight slammed Ivar onto the announcers table. The fans chanted YEAH. Ivar responded dropping Knight onto the barricade. Ivar took control delivering a running crossbody squashing Knight against the barricade. Knight battled back catching Ivar with an impressive Springboard Superplex as they returned from commercial. Knight covered Ivar for a two count. The fans chanted “This Is Awesome!” Knight went for a powerslam but his back gave. Ivar caught Knight with a Tour of the Islands for a two count. Ivar planted Knight with a Tiger Driver for a two count. Ivar went for a Bronco Buster but Knight moved out of the way. Knight made a comeback planting Ivar with a powerslam. Knight followed hitting an LA Knight Elbow for a two count. Valhalla stood on the ring apron. Knight moved as Ivar almost bumped into Valhalla. Ivar nailed Knight with a spin kick. Ivar went for a Flying Moonsault but Knight moved. Knight connected with Blunt Force Trauma for the win.
WINNER: LA Knight
(Amin’s Thoughts) — I like having qualifying matches because it makes them more important. I gotta say so far all the winners in the qualifying matches have been quite predictable which is fine adds more star power to the show. This was a good back and forth match as both Ivar and Knight worked well together. A good win for LA Knight having a strong showing. I don’t think Knight will win the Chamber match. I would like to see Knight get a big WrestleMania match.
Sami Zayn was walking backstage. Sami approached Mcintyre on his way to the ring. McIntyre told Sami to keep his name out of his mouth. McIntyre told Sami to keep his nose out of his business. Sami told McIntyre he was standing in his way. McIntyre let Sami walk by to the ring. Sami looked behind to see McIntyre.
Adam Pearce was in his office speaking to Candice LeRae and Indi Hartwell about next week’s last chance battle royal. Chelsea Green appeared asking Pearce if she was in the battle royal. Pearce mentioned it had to be taken under consideration. Green said she was a champion and shouldn’t be in a loser battle royal with LeRae, Hartwell, Shayna Baszler and Zoey Stark. Pearce took his glasses off. Baszler and Stark just happened to be standing behind Green. Baszler said she and Stark were here to talk about the Kabuki Warriors. Baszler mentioned she wouldn’t mind tearing Green apart limb by limb. Baszler and Stark left. Green asked Pearce if his glasses work asking if he knew Baszler and Stark were standing behind her the whole time. Green left. Pearce said he needed a drink. Green is tremendous in her role.
Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Sami Zayn
Cole spoke about Sami being Nakamura’s WWE debut match. Nakamura told Sami to “C’Mon!” Sami used Nakamura’s momentum sending him to the floor. Sami teased a dive but Nakamura moved. Sami told Nakamura “C’Mon!” Sami caught Nakamura with a flying elbow drop for a near fall as they returned from commercial. Nakamura took back control rocking Sami with a running knee strike for a two count. Nakamura nailed Sami with a spin kick for a near fall. Nakamura planted Sami with a sliding German Suplex for a two count. Nakamura went for a reverse Exploder Suplex but Sami landed on his feet. Sami caught Nakamura with a Michinoku Driver for a two count. Sami caught Nakamura with a clothesline sending him to the floor. Sami followed hitting a Tope Con Hilo to the floor. Nakamura rocked Sami with corner kick as the returned from commercial. Nakamura and Sami exchanged big strikes. Sami went for a Blue Thunder bomb but Nakamura held onto the ropes. Nakamura nailed Sami with a rewind kick. Nakamura called for the Kinshasa. Sami caught Nakamura with a Blue Thunder Bomb for a two count. Sami called for the Helluva Kick. Nakamura rolled to the floor. Sami rolled to the floor. Sami went for his corner DDT but Nakamura caught him with a flying kick. Such a great callback to the NXT TakeOver: Dallas match. Nakamura nailed Sami with a flying kick for a two count. Nakamura nailed Sami with a second flying kick for a two count. Sami caught Nakamura charging with a lariat. The fans cheered as Sami roared. Sami rocked Nakmaura with corner strikes. Sami followed hitting an Exploder Suplex. Sami called for the Helluva Kick. Drew McIntyre ran down. Nakamura kicked Sami in the leg. Nakamura connected with the Kinshasa for the win.
WINNER: Shinsuke Nakamura
—McIntyre and Nakamura attacked Sami after the match. The fans cheered as Cody Rhodes ran down to make the save. Cody and McIntyre exchanged strikes. Cody caught McIntyre with a Cody Cutter. Cody caught McIntyre with Cross Rhodes. Cody posed on the ropes. Michael Cole hyped Cody vs. McIntyre for next week. Cole hyped Roman Reigns and The Rock’s appearance for SmackDown. McIntyre pointed at the WrestleMania. Cody helped Sami to his feet. Sami looked disappointed. The show ended.
(Amin’s Thoughts) — This was a really good back and forth action packed match. Nakamura and Sami had one of my favourite NXT matches at TakeOver: Dallas. I really liked the callbacks to their classic match. A strong showing from Nakamura as he looked great in the win. Nice to see Nakamara is being presented like a featured star on Raw. Sami has been quite a lot of matches. I’m curious if this leads to Sami possibly turning heel. It more looks like they are building to Sami getting his big win over McIntyre. A good closing angle presenting Cody like the big babyface star coming to help Sami. A good way to hype the Cody and McIntyre match for Raw next week. It will be interesting to see what happens because neither Cody or McIntyre should be losing with WrestleMania approaching.
OVERALL THOUGHTS
A pretty solid episode of Raw. I like having qualifiers because it makes the matches more important. There were some very good wrestling matches on the show. There were also some great promos from both Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins. Overall, a good episode of Raw. A good focused show building towards the Elimination Chamber show with WrestleMania approaching.
