SLAP!What do you call a show that has a nostalgic return of the ultimate brotherhood, the announcement of a tournament to determine the new WWE World heavyweight Champion, a Cesaro match, a good promo from Reigns and a masterful performance by Triple H?You mostly will call it a good, good show.Raw was a show that had more good moments than the bad ones. The main roster is now thoroughly invested in the future and it seems like Reigns is destined to claw his way to the cusp of championship glory. Rollins' injury has deterred that journey, but it provides his story more depth.Here are the 3 things that worked from thsi week-
#1 Sheamus vs Cesaro
The entire tournament to determine the course of the WWE World Heavyweight Championship worked. but the best match of the night belonged to the one between Cesaro and Sheamus.
Cesaro is a beautiful wrestler. There is not a single match that he's ever been involved in that you're not in awe of. His counters, his unique ways of executing a move are spectacular. He makes a simple move like a drop kick look majestic.
Also, it takes a special kind of talent to be the most popular person in an England arena when Barrett is also involved in some capacity at the time. Barrett getting a smack from Rooney in the face was a nice touch. Also it should be noted that, Sheamus always delivers when his matches are given time.
#2 The Tournament
Seth Rollins is out for 6- 9 months.
While this is just unfortunate and heartbreaking for everyone who enjoyed his work, it has given rise to a tournament to determine the new WWE World heavyweight Champion, which is an exciting proposition in itself.
The tournament had its first round this week and Ziggler, Owens, Cesaro, Reigns and Ambrose advanced to the quarter-final. Special mention to Owens who made the hardcore English crowd, who wanted to cheer him, boo him ultimately, which is the trait of an insanely gifted heel.
It is a great way to build suspense and excitement as to what can unravel. It hugely looks like a showdown between Ambrose and Reigns ultimately.
#3 The opening segment
Speaking of reigns – he and Triple H had one of the best opening segments of Raw ever. All of it was so well laid out.
Triple H sold the idea of Reigns being a part of the Authority to perfection. Reigns played his part perfectly as well, contemplating the offer and trying hard not to ‘sellout’. Triple H, on the other hand, seemed like a master orator.
He almost got Reigns to think about the intriguing possibilities. Reigns spoke only a handful of words but uttered the ones that mattered. He looked great in this opening segment and so did Triple H.
The storyline has kicked off and it continue with someone joining The Authority.