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So much happened on this week's episode of RAW that it's hard to keep track of everything. It was definitely a good show with some weaker moments. However, we must commend WWE for keeping our attention across three hours. Let's hope SmackDown Live can follow suit, as well.
The central theme running through this show was the Superstar Shake-Up, of course. There were some big names traded from SmackDown to RAW. We're certain there will be some big names headed to SmackDown as well.
You cannot go wrong with an episode like this. Let's hope that WWE carries the momentum of this episode into the weeks to come.
In any case, we present the 'Best and Worst' of RAW.
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#1 Best: Changing the landscape of RAW
From Natalya to Baron Corbin to Jinder Mahal to The Riott Squad to Bobby Roode, every SmackDown Live superstar that came to RAW will change the dynamics of the red brand significantly. This week signals the end of the previous season of RAW and the beginning of a brand new season.
There were quite a few superstars whose names were mentioned online, who did not get a television appearance. Needless to say, RAW will be a very, very different show from next week. We will see new programs and fresh feuds take place.
We find the Rousey-Natalya chemistry particularly interesting. We wonder if it's leading to a feud between the women down the line.
#1 Worst: The Best of Both Worlds
We saw an cringe-worthy advertisement during the show that we had to mention. Superstars from RAW and SmackDown Live entered the studio to lip-sync along to a track entitled 'The Best of Both Worlds'. The purpose was to showcase that both RAW and SmackDown Live superstars would be part of monthly pay-per-views going forward. The pay-per-views would no longer be brand specific.
In addition to the fact that the song did not befit superstars who depict themselves as combat athletes, it made Kalisto and Erick Rowan break character and groove along to this extremely PG theme. The result was quite embarrassing.
#2 Best: Massive title change
The Hardy Boyz were on a career high last year, when Jeff Hardy suffered an injury and had to sit on the sidelines while his brother became 'Woken'. We are glad to report that he's back in the mix once again. Moreover, he's the new United States Champion! And what does that make him?
You guessed it right! He's a grand champion now. He's won every title there is to win in WWE.
Mahal will be invoking his rematch clause at the Greatest Royal Rumble. We couldn't be any more excited for the upcoming pay-per-view.
#2 Worst: Botch after botch
The first botch of the night happened when Bayley stumbled on the turnbuckle during her match with Sasha Banks. Needless to say, their match wasn't the NXT classic we'd come to expect. There was no heat for the match either until the very end.
The botches would then continue with Absolution coming out to Paige's music. With Paige becoming the General Manager of SmackDown Live, this did not make any sense at all.
Finally Corey Graves confused the Balor Club with the Bullet Club. Vince McMahon couldn't have been too happy with the botch.
#3 Best: The return of Drew McIntyre
Perhaps the biggest surprise to come out of the Superstar Shake-Up was the return of Drew McIntyre. We'd assumed he'd have a run in NXT first, to reclaim his Championship. Turns out he was fast-tracked to the main roster. He certainly seems ready.
We'd love to see Ziggler team up with McIntyre and face off against teams like The Bar and even The Revival. Not only will this be a huge step up for McIntyre, it would also give Ziggler something interesting to do!
#3 Worst: The Bar's string of losses
The RAW tag team division was built around The Bar, going into WrestleMania. And at WrestleMania, they lost to Braun Strowman and a 10-year old child. Shortly after, they were pinned by Breezango, a team that was used as little more than enhancement talent on SmackDown Live. We feel that their momentum is gone!
Unless it results in a strong run for Breezango, we do not really see the point of The Bar taking a pin. And we strongly doubt that Breezango will be allowed to run with the brass ring.
#4 Best/worst: Breaking up the Miztourage
RAW concluded with The Miz and The Miztourage going their separate ways. This is because they will be on different brands following this week's RAW. The Miz will become a SmackDown Live superstar. Axel and Dallas will remain on RAW.
We do not doubt the fact that The Miz will get over. He is a bonafide WWE superstar. We're afraid for Axel and Dallas' future following this big split.
Neither has The Miz's charisma, very honestly. We do hope they can be booked in such a manner that they always have a role.
This may be the last time we see The Goddess on RAW as well, so we end with this picture.
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