WWE News: New champion crowned at RAW 25

What's the story?

The Miz defeated Roman Reigns at the Barclays Center as part of WWE Raw's 25th Anniversary show to win the Intercontinental Title. This marks the eighth time the 'Most Must See Superstar in Sports Entertainment' has held the title.

In case you didn't know...

The match between Roman Reigns and The Miz was the only announced match-up heading into Monday Night RAW's big anniversary bonanza. The Miz returned and stated his intention to get revenge on Reigns for putting him through a table before he left and to regain 'his' Intercontinental Title.

The heart of the matter

The match started with Roman Reigns, who was being booed like mad from the Barclay's Center crowd, using his strength and power to gain the upper hand until he miscalculated and ran head first into the turnbuckle, leading to The Miz bringing out his version of Daniel Bryan's kicks.

Look familiar, @WWEDanielBryan? #RAW25 #ICTitle @mikethemiz pic.twitter.com/VKdyh3iaXK

— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018

'The Miztourage' managed to make their presence felt throughout the match, jumping at every opportunity to distract Reigns and turn the match in The Miz's favour. However, Reigns also took every opportunity to beat up Bo Dallas and Curtis Axel. That is until the referee expelled them from ringside. However, whilst he was distracted The Miz very sneakily removed a turnbuckle cover which would come into play later.

SEE YA BYE, @TheBoDallas & @RealCurtisAxel!#RAW25 #ICTitle pic.twitter.com/INUTeCNBz0

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018

While Reigns was distracted, The Miz was able to hit a Skull Crushing Finale, only to get a near-fall. Roman Reigns then rallied himself a little and prepared for a Spear, but The Miz dodged it, causing Roman to run head-first into the exposed turnbuckle. The Miz then hit a second Skull Crushing Finale for the win, in what was a low-key great match.

Who knows WHERE that turnbuckle pad went? But it doesn't matter...@mikethemiz has made history by winning the #ICTitle on #RAW25! pic.twitter.com/L6xzwS8WMn

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018

What's next?

The Miz is now the Intercontinental Champion and has announced his entry into the Royal Rumble. Is there a chance he goes on to win it and challenge for a world title at 'Mania? Probably not, although the outcome of this match does make it seem more likely that Roman Reigns could win the Royal Rumble match.

Author's take

Even though it was expected, it was great to see The Miz retain in front of a crowd that was very much on his side.

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