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Most people on the internet seem to think that Super Show-Down was a good show. I thought that the RAW that followed was even better. And this is a good sign for WWE. This is because ratings have tanked in recent weeks and WWE has decided not to give up and instead, put up a fight.
There were definitely more 'Bests' than 'Worsts' this week. For a change, I didn't even realize how fast the three hours flew by. I thought that the audience was great too, and that certainly helped.
Here is my analysis of the three hours of sports entertainment action. Be sure to share your thoughts and feelings in the comments.
What did you guys think about this week's show?
#1 Best: Two massive returns
I thought the Battle Royal to determine who would qualify for the WWE World Cup was absolutely perfect. The corrupt Authority figure, Baron Corbin, booked himself in an easy contest where he would be the clear winner, quite easily. He cleared the ring of all the competitors, even though they decided to team up against the acting GM.
Except for The Conquistador, who sat on the outside for most of the match. When he did enter the ring, he fought Corbin with the intensity of well, an Olympic Gold medalist. When the unmasking happened and Angle revealed himself to the world, the crowd reacted with utmost shock.
Lita's return was equally cool because nobody really expected it to happen. I am okay with Trish Stratus and Lita teaming up as a feelgood moment at Evolution, later this month.
WWE certainly pulled out all the stops to get the audience invested once again.
#1 Worst: Mistake with World Cup
I think many members of the WWE Universe had assumed that the World Cup would have representatives from various countries. And yet, there are already two superstars from America that have qualified for this massive tournament. They are none other than John Cena and Kurt Angle. And in my opinion, this is a confused booking decision.
The World Cup could have been a great opportunity to elevate an Irishman like Finn Balor or a Canadian like Kevin Owens. But instead, we get two men from the very same country!
#2 Best: Two heel turns
I think a heel turn or two always sets the stage for exciting television, in the weeks that follow. I was thrilled to see the double turn between Kevin Owens and Bobby Lashley. But the Bella Twins turning on Rousey was also a great move.
This is because The Bellas are much better as heels than they are as babyfaces. Like it or not, Nikki Bella vs. Ronda Rousey is a pretty big match. Much bigger than Rousey taking on anyone else in the roster not named Charlotte Flair.
Of course, I like the tease of Bobby Roode and Dean Ambrose turning heel too. There are more questions than answers at the moment.
#2 Worst: No feud for Elias?
I love the little cameos that Elias does as a singer-songwriter. But somehow, it's hard to take him seriously, because he's never booked in a feud. What he desperately needs is a proper program to develop his character.
If not, he'll continue to remain a sideshow. And he's far too entertaining a character to remain on the sidelines. I do hope that Elias is used in a feud with someone in the roster, and possibly even wins the feud.
#3 Best: The main event
The Shield and The Dogs of War had a great main event match. I thought it was even better than the match they had in Melbourne. What I like best about the two teams is that they tell stories every time they step into the ring. It's not just a random display of high-flying moves.
Each of the 6 men is a fantastic worker in his own right. And they always deliver, whether they're opening the show or bringing it to a close.
#3 Worst: The Intercontinental Championship picture
I think Seth Rollins is doing a fantastic job in The Shield. But because he's a critical component of the group, I think that The Intercontinental Championship has been forgotten. The same title that could have been used to elevate a performer like Finn Balor. As the Metallica song goes- 'It's sad but true'.
And yes, this is a real tragedy in my opinion. I wonder if a Dean Ambrose heel turn will bring about Rollins vs. Ambrose at WWE Crown Jewel.
#4 Best/worst: Paul Heyman
I felt Paul Heyman addressing the WWE Universe was fun. But it was a lot more of the same old. He spoke about his client, and droned on and on. But he did so with the eloquence that only he amply possesses.
Heyman without Lesnar feels pretty pointless. I do hope Lesnar makes a return prior to Crown Jewel. I certainly hope that the heat between the Universal Championship challengers intensifies greatly.
WWE writers can take a hint from ECW about how to make their segments exciting. This promo was okay at best. And this is because it seemed forced.
#4 Best/worst: The return of DX
I did not like the match in Melbourne. I don't think that the match in Saudi Arabia will be any better. Is WWE ruining the perfect retirement story that Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker told?
It does feel like that. And yet, I'm excited to see Shawn Michaels wrestle again. I mean, who isn't?
Please share your thoughts about the show. Did it live up to all your expectations?
Tonight's moment of bliss comes from Trish Stratus and Lita:
