WWE Raw: Analysing and grading each segment (December 19th)

Charlotte vs. Bayley:

This was a decent match, but not either woman’s best work

Grade: 7/10

Its baffling that WWE insists on giving away eventual PPV matches on Raw, as Charlotte vs. Bayley could’ve been saved exclusively for the Royal Rumble. Still, at least the title wasn’t on the line here like every Sasha vs. Charlotte match on Raw. This wasn’t Charlotte or Bayley’s best work either, and the match was decent but had a few sloppy moments.

WWE resorts to the ‘challenger beats Champion in a non-title match’ cliché way too often, and this led to a predictable result in Bayley picking up a fluke victory. While their feud should be great, this wasn’t the best start, but it will hopefully improve in the next few weeks heading into the Rumble.

Charlotte’s arrogant, vicious heel character does coincide perfectly with Bayley’s fun, underdog babyface persona, so hopefully that will be emphasised in the build of this rivalry. Still, not their best work in this match, and a predictable outcome.