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The Good:

Giants Collide, Queens Rise: Jordynne Grace and Giulia offered a masterclass in brutality and brilliance. Grace, all strength and suplex, roared through the storm and felled the Stardom queen with backfists and Beast Mode thunder. The crowd rose, the barricades shook, and Stephanie Vaquer’s entrance post-match sealed the prophecy: the title match to come shall be glorious.

The Unexpected Victor: Myles Borne, once a background footnote in the No Quarter Catch Crew saga, emerged as the sole survivor of a 25-man battle royal teeming with chaos, eliminations, and surprise returns (Elijah, anyone?). His triumph—clean, emphatic, and against the odds—sets the stage for a potential seismic shift in NXT’s top ranks.

Jaida Parker, Certified Problem: Her hip attack finishes are vicious, her post-match promos venomous, and her upward momentum unmistakable. Give it six moons, and she shall grace the main roster stage.

The Bad:

DarkState Wins, But At What Cost? The six-man opener was chaotic fun, yes—but this faction still feels like an unsorted deck of cards. Interchangeable parts with no clear face cards. Trick Williams’ interference with Joe Hendry made sense narratively, but the actual winners? Forgettable.

Petrovic’s Plateau: Karmen Petrovic has the moves, the look, and the platform—but her matches now echo past iterations. She's in danger of becoming NXT’s designated enhancement talent in fancy gear unless something shifts dramatically.

The Ugly:

Split-Screen Sabotage: Once again, WWE insists on cutting to fast-food commercials mid-match, sacrificing momentum for mozzarella sticks. Even State Farm pigeons can’t save this one. Ye gods, let us watch our battles in peace!

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Final Thoughts:

This episode was a strong squire to last week’s knight. Grace vs. Vaquer is the women’s match to watch. Hendry vs. Trick—TNA title included—is an audacious first. And Borne? He might just be the uncut gem of this era, with Oba Femi looming large as his test of destiny.

A tale well told, with more yet to unfold. What say you—shall Myles Borne rise, or be stretched into obscurity?

The Good

Foremost among the night's triumphs was the prodigal return of Rusev, whose reemergence electrified the WWE Universe. His decisive victory over Otis not only invoked a wave of nostalgia but also injected a potent dose of momentum into the lead-up to Backlash. The crowd’s fervor underscored just how missed he was, paving the way for tantalizing future storylines.

In the realm of the women's division, the clash between IYO SKY and Roxanne Perez delivered a spectacle of athletic prowess. SKY’s cunning roll-up victory maintained the competitive edge of their rivalry, while the post-match assault by Giulia and Perez added layers of intrigue, ensuring the division remains a cornerstone of the show.

Penta’s triumph over JD McDonagh, despite The Judgment Day’s meddling, further solidified his status as a formidable force. His resilience in the face of interference underscored his mettle, enriching the narrative tapestry of Raw’s mid-card scene.

The Bad

Yet, not all shone as brightly. The verbal sparring between Becky Lynch and Lyra Valkyria, though intended to ignite anticipation, fell somewhat short of the mark. It lacked the spark required to elevate their feud to a fever pitch, leaving the audience less enthralled than a go-home segment should aspire to.

Similarly, the alliance of Seth Rollins, Bron Breakker, and Paul Heyman, while promising in theory, has yet to find its rhythm. Their promo, though brimming with potential, felt disjointed, leaving the audience yearning for a more cohesive dynamic.

The Ugly

Alas, the night was not without its blemishes. The overbooked chaos of the Penta vs. JD McDonagh match, while showcasing Penta’s fortitude, veered into the territory of convolution. Such frequent interference has become a tiresome trope, diminishing the purity and intensity of the in-ring action.

Moreover, the perennial challenge of Raw’s three-hour runtime once again reared its head. The pacing faltered, with some segments feeling interminably stretched, while others were hurried through, resulting in an uneven viewing experience.

In the grand theater of WWE SmackDown on May 2, 2025, fans were treated to a buffet of triumphs, trials, and tantalizing teasers. One of the night’s standout dishes was Rey Fenix taking down Santos Escobar in a sizzling showdown that left the crowd on the edge of their seats.

Positives: The high-flying mastery of Rey Fenix and the ever-charismatic Santos Escobar gave fans a match to remember. Tiffany Stratton and Jade Cargill’s tag team win over Nia Jax and Naomi was a highlight, showcasing their synergy and strength. Aleister Black’s victory over The Miz added a dark and thrilling note to the night, while Zelina Vega’s win against Piper Niven displayed her impressive resilience and skill.

Negatives: While the in-ring action was top-notch, the pacing occasionally felt rushed, leaving some storylines underdeveloped. Randy Orton’s ominous address to John Cena, though compelling, could have benefited from more build-up to truly cement the tension.

Overall, SmackDown served up a delicious mix of action and drama, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the saga.

The Good

1. Joe Hendry’s NXT Presence & Cross-Promotion Feud

Joe Hendry showing up on NXT as the reigning TNA World Champion – and actually being over with the crowd – is proof positive that crossover booking can work. The “We believe” chants added legit juice to Hendry’s promo, and the Trick Williams storyline is giving both men momentum. Bonus points for Trick invading Rebellion – a bold touch that adds credibility and chaos in equal measure.

2. Ricky Saints vs. Lexis King – NXT North American Title Match

This was a hot opener with a good pace, clean execution, and a clear sense of rising stakes. Lexis King elevated his game and meshed surprisingly well with Saints (still not used to that name). It wasn’t match of the year stuff, but it was good TV and a smart way to kick things off.

3. The Women’s Main Event: Grace & Iyo Sky vs. Perez & Giulia

This was fantastic. Four elite-level performers in one ring with crowd heat, fluid action, and storytelling that didn’t insult the audience. Iyo continues to be one of the most beloved wrestlers in the company, and Jordynne Grace got the rub she needed. The final stretch—with quick pins, floor brawls, and Sky’s Over The Moonsault—was a highlight reel in motion.

4. Hank & Tank Retain in a Big-Boy Brawl

For a tag match full of big dudes, this had surprising speed and agility. Inamura accidentally hitting Briggs set up an intriguing tension post-match that could lead to a hard-hitting feud. All four guys came out looking better than they went in.

5. Ruca's Raw Talent (Even in a Filler Match)

Even in a match with little story build, Sol Ruca continues to stand out. She’s impossible to call in real-time—like the human version of a glitchy highlight reel. Petrovic held her own too, and the post-match boot to Adonis gave her some edge.

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The Bad

1. Trick’s Self-Hype Promo

Look, Trick Williams is electric, but this promo felt like he was trying too hard. Comparing himself to The Rock and Cena and calling Hendry a local talent? It was all a bit extra. Still, the fans are behind him, and the 25-man battle royal setup next week should reset the chessboard.

2. The Meta Four Breakup

The Lash Legend-led Meta Four split happened way too fast. Noam Dar’s reaction was great—and “Well, it’s just you and me” was a nice touch—but the group had more mileage. This felt like a season finale in the middle of the season.

3. Ava’s Overexposure

Ava’s involvement is logical, but she appeared in too many segments tonight. The GM character should feel important, not omnipresent. A little less would’ve gone a long way.

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The Ugly

1. The Culling Twilight Zone Segment

What in the budget “Twilight Zone” was that? Spears cutting a promo in the void with The Culling felt like a weird dream you’d have after eating gas station sushi. NXT prides itself on cinematic flair, but this one missed the mark.

2. Chase U Shenanigans (Again)

This may have been a background segment or glossed over, but Chase U has officially outstayed its welcome unless they have a sharp creative pivot planned. At this point, it’s just taking up valuable screen time.

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Final Thoughts

This episode didn’t have a massive match count, but it had quality across the board. The women’s tag was a legitimate show-stealer, the crossover between TNA and NXT is creating real buzz, and multiple character arcs moved forward. Still, NXT needs to be careful not to lean too heavily on authority figures or undercooked factions. That said, if they keep pushing talents like Saints, Ruca, and Inamura—and if Joe Hendry vs. Trick hits next week—we might be looking at a summer hot streak.

Overall Grade: B+

(Borderline A- if they follow through strong next week.)

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Sami Zayn came out and cooked Seth Rollins like a backyard brisket. He questioned the faux revolution brewing under Seth, Bron Breakker, and their shady handler Heyman, asking the million-dollar question: “How are you any different from Roman or Punk?” Cue existential crisis.

Jey Uso vs. Logan Paul build-up was classic stuff: cocky heel YouTuber versus the heart-of-gold babyface who hugs kids at ringside and drops Yeets like it’s 2023 again. Logan plays the slimeball perfectly, and Jey finally has a feud that doesn’t revolve around family therapy.

Lyra Valkyria shined on the mic and in the beatdown department. Her promo against Becky was the best she’s ever sounded, and the post-segment attack felt heated. A potential career-making moment, and Becky sold it like a pro.

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The Bad

Seth's Super Team Is Still Just Seth’s Ego Trip

Seth Rollins keeps saying “This isn’t like The Bloodline,” but man is it exactly like The Bloodline. He’s got a new monster, a Paul Heyman mouthpiece, and he’s giving guys the “join us or get stomped” ultimatum. All that’s missing is matching t-shirts and Solo Sikoa.

Paul Heyman and Bron Breakker are glorified mannequins this week. Why bring them out if they’re just gonna stand there like they’re waiting for a bus? Give us something, Paul—this alliance is supposed to matter.

Gunther’s indefinite suspension sounds serious… until you remember WWE “indefinitely suspended” Brock Lesnar one time and he came back three weeks later looking more rested than punished.

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The Ugly

Sami Zayn Got Sacrificed to Establish Stakes—Again

Bron Breakker didn’t just beat Sami. He ran through him like a Taco Bell order on cheat day. Spear after spear, ending with a ref stoppage which, last we checked, isn’t how WWE matches usually end unless someone’s literally combusting.

And then Rollins Stomped a defenseless Sami for good measure. This was more mafia than main event—“It’s not a threat, it’s a favor,” said Seth, probably while stroking an invisible cat.

The crowd? Half-hearted. A few “CM Punk!” chants, some barks for Breakker, and a “One More Time!” chant from folks who thought they were watching ECW in 2006. The detachment is real.

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Final Thought:

This week’s Raw gave us competent storytelling and decent stakes but wrapped it in reheated leftovers. Seth’s faction feels like diet Bloodline with zero calories of actual menace (yet), while the crowd seems unsure if they’re supposed to cheer, boo, or go make popcorn. Luckily, Sami Zayn still delivers truth bombs better than half the roster delivers promos.

What happens when you mix Shakespearean betrayal, cardio machines, and a man in leopard print yelling about the future of the industry? You get Monday Night Raw in Sacramento — less than seven days before WrestleMania 41 explodes onto the scene like a spear from a Samoan demigod.

And while many superstars were focused on delivering their final soliloquies ahead of wrestling’s grandest opera, it was Seth “Drip Messiah” Rollins who walked away with the spotlight — and the stomp count.

Main Event Mayhem: The Paul Heyman Sweepstakes

If The Last Supper had a steel chair and better lighting, it would’ve looked a lot like this segment. Roman Reigns entered the Golden 1 Center already fuming, having just witnessed CM Punk casually draped around Paul Heyman like a freshly delivered betrayal pizza. The sight didn’t sit well with The Tribal Chief. After all, Heyman is his wise man — or was.

Reigns, never one to whisper, asked the obvious question: “Why?” Heyman, suddenly the most emotionally conflicted man in California, claimed this was all about a favor Punk earned back at WarGames. Roman, channeling every father who’s ever refused to pay for someone else’s Uber, replied: “I didn’t ask for that favor.”

Enter Rollins, wearing his usual high fashion and higher levels of chaos. He called the upcoming triple threat the most important match in WrestleMania history — not because of titles or legacy, but because the soul of the industry is at stake. According to Rollins, if Reigns or Punk wins, wrestling dies. (Bold claim, but the man does wear see-through mesh on purpose, so he’s clearly fearless.)

Then came the breakdown:

Reigns tries to demolish Rollins.

Reigns shoves Heyman to the mat (yikes).

Punk storms out for revenge, only to eat a spear.

And Rollins, with the awareness of a hawk and the timing of a slap in a telenovela, returns to stomp both men into the canvas.

Fade to black. Cue existential dread for WrestleMania.

The Heyman Variable

Make no mistake — Paul Heyman is not just a character right now. He’s the MacGuffin. He’s the Iron Throne. He’s the golden ticket that nobody’s quite holding. His alliance with Punk has cracked Reigns' fortress of control for the first time in years, and Seth Rollins is gleefully tap dancing through the rubble. He stomped Punk last week. He stomped both Punk and Reigns this week. If he stomps a referee next week, we may just have a pattern.

Grade: B+

(Would’ve been an A, but no R-Truth segment. Yes, we’re petty.)

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The Undercard in Bullet Points (Because We Still Have Trust Issues from the Attitude Era)

• Gunther opened Raw with a very calm, very threatening message to Jey Uso. In summary: “You were lucky last time. This time, I’ll drown you in your brother’s blood.” Charming guy.

• Bayley def. Liv Morgan via jackknife pin after Raquel interfered, Lyra intervened, and everyone watching blinked twice just to keep up.

• Rey Mysterio def. Julius Creed after a textbook 619/West Coast Pop combo. Post-match, El Grande Americano turned heel faster than a lucha libre referee count.

• AJ Styles def. Karrion Kross, though “defeated” is generous. Kross practically gift-wrapped the finish. Logan Paul then showed up with a PowerPoint of Pettiness, and after a brief melee, laid Styles out with a Paulverizer. If you’re not rooting for Styles now, you may be Logan Paul.

• Jey Uso cut a promo, looked into Gunther’s soul, and claimed, “He’s scared.” Bold strategy, Cotton.

• Judgment Day jumped Bron Breakker backstage. Because that’s just how they flirt.

• Finn Bálor def. Penta by DQ, thanks to Breakker returning like a battering ram in sneakers. Penta closed the segment with a dive so beautiful it deserves its own entrance music.

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Final Thoughts

Monday Night Raw gave us drama, tension, and just enough chaos to remind us: the road to WrestleMania is not paved — it’s barbed-wired, emotionally unstable, and lined with people who owe Paul Heyman favors. And in this bizarre, beautifully broken power triangle of Punk, Reigns, and Rollins, it’s the wise man who might just hold the key to it all.

Next stop: WrestleMania.

Bring popcorn. And probably a helmet.

The Good

This show was like comfort food—easy to digest and mostly satisfying. The wrestling was solid, the results made sense, and the crowd was all-in, making it an enjoyable watch. Let’s dive into the highlights:

Rhea Ripley Retains Her Title

The Women’s World Champion, Rhea Ripley, kicked off the night by retaining her title against Nia Jax in a strong opener. Rhea continues to dominate without much character development lately, but when you're that big of a star, who needs layers? She's the superhero we root for—even if she’s missing the dramatic backstory. Call it the “Rhea Effect.”

Bron Breakker vs. Sheamus: The IC Title Saga

Bron Breakker defeated Sheamus to retain his Intercontinental Championship in what may have been the match of the night. It’s Sheamus’ 798th attempt to capture the IC Title (at least it feels that way), but who’s counting? Oh, wait—I am.

Sheamus’ quest for the IC belt is like a long-running TV series. Think Supernatural—great in the beginning, but after a while, you’re wondering, “Are we still doing this?” Don’t get me wrong; the story works, but if they want to keep the momentum, a WrestleMania career vs. title match might be the way to go. Sheamus needs that defining, all-or-nothing moment.

As for Bron, he’s in an odd spot. The man’s barely on TV these days, except for the occasional backstage promo where he growls about dogs barking. His last televised match was over a month ago on 12/16, but somehow, it hasn’t hurt his credibility. WrestleMania season is here, though, so let’s hope the dogs start barking a little louder.

Gunther Retains Against Jey Uso

In the main event, World Champion Gunther retained his title against Jey Uso in a surprisingly strong showing for Jey. Now, let’s be real: No one over the age of seven thought Jey was walking out with the belt, but the crowd was firmly in his corner. Jey’s popularity carried the match, and Gunther remains an unstoppable force.

With WrestleMania looming, both men are in intriguing positions. Gunther is clearly set for a marquee moment, while Jey remains a fan favorite with untapped potential. Will they strike gold with his storyline, or will he remain the eternal “almost” guy?

The Bad

Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens Contract Signing

This segment wasn’t technically bad, but it felt lukewarm for a program as well-written as this one. Cody and Kevin are both incredible on the mic, and Shawn Michaels served as the mediator (tolerable, if not impactful), but this feud is severely lacking buzz.

One big problem? No one really wants to boo Kevin Owens. He’s too beloved for fans to truly buy into him as a credible heel against Cody, who is clearly the chosen one on a collision course with John Cena at WrestleMania. The outcome feels like a foregone conclusion, which dampens the stakes. My guess? Owens pivots to a program with Sami Zayn after this. It’s not bad; it’s just… there.

The Ugly

The WWE Transfer Portal

Okay, I’m cheating here because this doesn’t directly tie into Saturday’s show, but the Transfer Portal is a glaring issue across WWE programming. What is it, you ask? Great question. No one knows.

For months now, WWE has been casually allowing superstars to jump between shows with zero explanation, creating a chaotic free-for-all. It’s as if someone handed WWE the Infinity Gauntlet of storytelling tools, and they snapped away all logic. Sure, I understand the real-world reason—flexibility to keep storylines moving—but would it kill them to explain this on TV?

At its core, the Transfer Portal undermines the brand split structure, making it hard to care about roster alignments when there’s no foundation. It’s bush-league storytelling, plain and simple, and easily the worst creative decision under Triple H’s leadership—yes, even worse than those endless bad finishes (which, to his credit, have improved recently). WWE has done so much right, but this? Fix it, please.

Final Thoughts

Saturday Night Main Event was a fun, breezy show overall, with solid matches and strong crowd energy. Rhea Ripley continues to shine, Bron and Sheamus delivered a great match despite a tired story, and Gunther remains a world-class champion. However, the Cody-Kevin feud needs more heat, and the Transfer Portal remains a mess WWE needs to address.

With WrestleMania season officially underway, there’s plenty to look forward to, but here’s hoping WWE cleans up its loose ends. Because no one likes a house built on a shaky foundation—unless that house happens to belong to the Addams Family.

Stay tuned, wrestling fans. Things are bound to get interesting. 

The Good

For a two-hour show, Raw somehow managed to fit in moments that made you glad you tuned in instead of doomscrolling Twitter for the evening.

CM Punk reminded us why he’s the Picasso of promos, delivering a sit-down segment that painted Seth Rollins as a needy WWE mascot clutching the company logo like a blankie. Seth’s retort was solid—passionate, intense—but let’s be real, it also screamed, “Please validate me, Daddy WWE!” Still, the back-and-forth was gold.

The Judgment Day, who’ve spent months feeling about as intimidating as an unpaid parking ticket, actually looked good last night. Finn Bálor showed up with a mic in hand and actual fire in his soul, while Gunther—yes, Gunther—gave us a promo that deserves to be framed. Can we all agree that Gunther might secretly be the best talker in the business? Meanwhile, Damian Priest played the lovable punching bag, and shockingly, the crowd cared.

And The New Day? Oh, they understood the assignment. Their segment was pure magic, a perfect blend of comedy and charisma. If you missed it, drop everything and watch it. Seriously, it was that good.

The Bad

You know what wasn’t good? The never-ending snoozefest that is Final Testament vs. Wyatt Sixx. Last night’s match was fine—if by fine, you mean the wrestling equivalent of eating unsalted crackers. The Wyatts still have some spark, but Final Testament? These guys are walking, talking heat sinks. Every feud they touch immediately cools off. It’s like their superpower.

This program has all the momentum of a shopping cart with a broken wheel, and the fact that it’s still limping along is honestly impressive. Wyatt Sixx might recover from this, but Final Testament? They’re circling the creative drain faster than we can say, “budget cuts.”

The Ugly

Ah, the Women’s Midcard Division, where talent goes to die. WWE is introducing two new midcard titles, but here’s the problem: they barely give the current women’s midcard any screen time. Last night, the booking was so bad, I half expected someone to cue the Benny Hill theme.

It’s not like they’re short on talent, either. Over in NXT, they’ve got Julia, Zaria, and Vaquer—arguably the best trio of prospects in a decade. But if WWE keeps up this nonsense, those women will graduate to Raw or SmackDown just to sit in catering.

Let’s face it: the women’s division is a mess, and unless something changes fast, those midcard titles will be as meaningful as a participation trophy.

Final Thoughts

Raw’s new two-hour format is a blessing and a curse. On one hand, the pacing is tighter, and the show doesn’t feel like a marathon. On the other hand, WWE’s bad habits—like ignoring the women’s midcard and dragging out lifeless feuds—still stand out.

That said, with CM Punk, Seth Rollins, The New Day, and Judgment Day’s strong performances, there’s still hope. Now, if they can just fix the women’s division and send Final Testament to feud purgatory, we might have a near-perfect show. Here’s to next week. Try harder, WWE.

 Yet, Friday Night SmackDown this week delivered a near-flawless spectacle, leaving this critic with little to critique and much to celebrate. In the spirit of fun and scholarly dissection, let us explore this gem of an episode through the lens of the good, the (barely) bad, and the (nonexistent) ugly—complete with the intellectual rigor befitting a Harvard thesis.

The Good: A Cornucopia of Excellence

SmackDown was replete with moments of unadulterated brilliance, beginning with the ever-magnificent Bloodline segment. At this point, The Bloodline saga has transcended traditional wrestling storytelling, becoming a Shakespearean drama played out under the bright lights of the squared circle. The familial tension, strategic alliances, and betrayal mirror King Lear more than Monday Night Raw, and this week’s installment did not disappoint. The segment was a masterclass in narrative pacing, character development, and emotional gravitas.

Elsewhere, DIY’s heel turn injected a refreshing shot of adrenaline into a team that had languished in the shadows for far too long. While comparisons to the New Day’s heel turn on Monday are inevitable, DIY’s effort felt more meticulously crafted, even if slightly less dynamic in execution. Still, their transition to the dark side promises an intriguing new chapter in their story, reminiscent of a prestige TV character’s moral decline—think Walter White in Breaking Bad, but with more superkicks.

Bianca Belair, ever the consummate performer, showcased her prodigious talent in a scintillating match against Piper Niven. Watching Belair is akin to witnessing Serena Williams in her prime—power, grace, and an indomitable will to succeed, all on full display. The match was a high-water mark in what has already been an illustrious career for Belair, and Niven’s underrated prowess made for a formidable opponent.

The Cody Rhodes vs. Chad Gable match, while perhaps not transcendent, was another highlight. Rhodes, a wrestler who can transform even the most ephemeral feuds into compelling narratives, brought his usual flair, while Gable’s hometown hero reception in Minnesota added an emotional undercurrent to the bout. It was the wrestling equivalent of a well-executed Netflix mini-series: short, impactful, and worth the watch.

The Barely Bad: The Portal Transfer Conundrum

If there is a blemish on this otherwise pristine episode, it is the curious introduction of the so-called “portal transfer.” WWE’s history with the brand split has been, shall we say, less than consistent. The concept of wrestlers traversing the boundaries of Raw, SmackDown, and NXT has always been treated with a laissez-faire attitude that undermines the potential value of such a system. Now, with the introduction of this portal, the narrative logic is stretched even thinner.

The portal transfer concept, while ostensibly designed to facilitate the shifting landscape of WWE’s television contracts—Raw to Netflix, SmackDown to new heights—feels like an afterthought rather than a deliberate, well-integrated mechanism. One cannot help but wonder: could this not have been explained with more gravitas? Instead, it lands with all the narrative cohesion of a Michael Bay subplot—flashy, but not fully thought through.

That said, the portal’s potential for reshaping the WWE landscape is undeniable. The prospect of The Bloodline moving to Raw, Cody Rhodes anchoring SmackDown, or Seth Rollins injecting his enigmatic energy into a new roster is tantalizing. But for now, the portal transfer exists as an idea in need of refinement.

The Nonexistent Ugly: A Night of Clean Finishes

In a stunning departure from WWE’s usual modus operandi, this episode of SmackDown featured—brace yourselves—a series of clean finishes. Such a rarity in modern wrestling deserves to be lauded with the fervor of a Marvel fan watching the first Avengers movie. No convoluted interference, no sudden disqualifications—just honest-to-goodness wrestling matches reaching their natural conclusions. This adherence to in-ring integrity elevated the episode to a realm of excellence rarely seen.

Final Thoughts: A Masterpiece of Modern Wrestling

Friday Night SmackDown this week was not just good; it was a beacon of what WWE can achieve when firing on all creative cylinders. From the Bloodline’s operatic drama to Bianca Belair’s athletic tour de force, the show was a testament to the artistry and entertainment value of professional wrestling at its finest. Even the portal transfer, with its flaws, hints at a future rich with narrative possibilities.

In the words of The Dark Knight’s Alfred Pennyworth, “Some men just want to watch the world burn.” But as a wrestling fan, I’d much prefer to watch a world where SmackDown delivers episodes of this caliber week after week. If this is a harbinger of things to come, consider me optimistic about the future of WWE storytelling.

The Good: Excellence in Execution (For Once)

First and foremost, let us bow our heads and acknowledge the brilliance that was The New Day segment. Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods delivered three minutes of perfection—a masterclass in subtle storytelling that could make even the bard himself weep. Watching these two friends navigate a growing rift has been both heartbreaking and fascinating. It's the kind of slow-burn narrative WWE typically fumbles, but this time? Chef's kiss.

Honestly, do we even want these two to break up? This feels like the rare opportunity to tell a different kind of wrestling story—one where best friends actually reconcile without having to throw each other through furniture. Imagine this: Big E, the heart and soul of the group, swoops in to patch things up and they go on to set new records. Call me sentimental, but we could be onto something revolutionary here. Regardless, last night’s segment was a reminder that, when WWE gets it right, it really gets it right.

Also in the "Good" column: Damian Priest, who seems to have discovered his promo skills in some hidden drawer of his Judgment Day wardrobe. Where was this energy during his title run? Priest going toe-to-toe with Gunther in a promo battle was compelling stuff. Though Gunther's “crisis of confidence” storyline isn’t exactly Shakespeare, it’s at least logical—tying back to his loss to Cody Rhodes at Crown Jewel. Baby steps, people. Baby steps.

The Bad: Another Title Nobody Asked For

WWE announced the new IC Women’s Title before the show, and, well, let’s just say this feels like a solution in search of a problem. Conceptually, a mid-card women’s title sounds fair. Realistically, WWE’s women’s division isn’t ready to handle it. Why? Because while the roster is deep enough in bodies, it’s shallow in characters.

Let’s be honest: only 3-4 women per show are actually over. The rest are wandering the creative desert, surviving on the scraps of whatever promo time they can find. Adding a new belt when the storytelling is already this thin feels like handing someone a trophy for a race they haven’t run yet. Maybe this works if WWE invests in elevating the women’s division as a whole, but right now, the math isn’t mathing.

And, for the love of wrestling gods, did we really need another brand-specific belt? This could have been a floating title—something to build intrigue across both shows. But alas, WWE seems content to pile up belts like it's hoarding them for a post-apocalyptic barter system.

The Ugly: Finish Him? Nah.

Ah, the bane of modern WWE: bad finishes. Last night was no exception. WWE's obsession with "storytelling over competition" reared its ugly head yet again, delivering a buffet of nonsensical, momentum-killing endings that made me long for the days of clean, decisive victories.

It’s disheartening because we know Triple H is capable of better. His NXT booking was built on competitive matches that made sense. Now, it feels like he’s absorbed Vince McMahon’s philosophy of “eh, finishes don’t matter,” and it’s a little soul-crushing to watch. Sure, the crowd of 12,000 didn’t seem to care. WWE is red-hot right now, and maybe most fans have just accepted that shoddy finishes are “what wrestling is.” But one day, this approach is going to bite them. Hard.

Final Thoughts: Raw in a Nutshell

In summary, last night’s Raw was a mix of brilliance, mediocrity, and downright frustration. The New Day stole the show with a flawless segment, Damian Priest and Gunther added some much-needed credibility to the mid-card scene, and then WWE went and WWE’d the whole thing with another title and a heap of bad finishes.

It’s the dichotomy of WWE: they can give you a three-minute masterpiece and then turn around and make you question why you care so much. But hey, that’s sports entertainment for you—equal parts joy and exasperation. 

The Good

Let us delve into the intricacies of the War Games setup. On the women’s front, the match appears to exist solely because War Games is the titular event—a thematic indulgence reminiscent of Vince McMahon’s proclivity for prioritizing spectacle over narrative coherence. Yet, despite its ostensibly perfunctory inception, the build has been commendable, providing at least a veneer of justification for its occurrence. The return of Rhea Ripley, donning a striking mask, injects a much-needed infusion of gravitas and star power into the proceedings, akin to adorning an otherwise ordinary narrative with an opulent flourish.

Conversely, on the men’s side, the Bloodline’s calculated recruitment of Seth Rollins provides a narrative throughline imbued with dramatic tension. The interference of the newly configured Bloodline faction in the main event—ultimately costing Rollins the match—practically cements his eventual participation in the War Games match. Whether the deeply personal familial conflicts at the heart of this storyline genuinely necessitate a fifth man remains a matter of intellectual debate, but WWE’s deft storytelling thus far has rendered the journey to this destination more compelling than the sum of its narrative components might initially suggest.

The Bad

It would be disingenuous to label this entirely as “bad,” yet WWE’s recent predilection for taped programming warrants scrutiny. While the practice undoubtedly enhances the well-being and morale of its overworked and undercompensated athletes, the resultant episodes possess a discernible diminution of urgency. It is an imperceptible yet palpable phenomenon, akin to the subtle diminution of quality one detects in reheated gourmet cuisine. The abundance of video packages further exacerbates this malaise, rendering Raw a simulacrum of itself—a production bereft of immediacy and vitality, striving yet failing to replicate the dynamism of its live counterparts.

The Ugly

Now we arrive at WWE’s perennial Achilles’ heel: the egregious absence of clean match conclusions. While last night’s proceedings did not descend into unmitigated farce, the absence of resolution in the Sheamus-Bronn bout exemplifies a persistent issue. Bronson Reed’s ostensible triumph over Seth Rollins in the main event, facilitated by a cacophony of external interference, feels less like a legitimate victory and more like a theatrical contrivance. WWE’s apparent pedagogical mission to inculcate in its audience the notion that match outcomes are inconsequential fundamentally undermines the very ethos of professional wrestling. In an industry predicated upon the simulation of competitive combat to ascertain supremacy, the reluctance to deliver decisive conclusions is as confounding as it is counterproductive.

Final Reflections

While Raw succeeds in cultivating anticipation for the forthcoming War Games spectacle, its overreliance on pre-recorded episodes and its chronic aversion to clean finishes preclude it from achieving narrative or artistic excellence. WWE would do well to recall that the essence of compelling storytelling often lies in its simplicity—a victor and a vanquished, a resolution unclouded by artifice. Instead, the company appears content to obfuscate its narratives, serving an audience a mélange of convoluted plotlines and incessant interference.

The Good

1. Damian Priest's Promo Skills Are Finally on the Rise First up, The Good. Damian Priest's promo abilities have made a miraculous turnaround. Up until last night, I was questioning if his charisma stat was set to zero, but he really delivered. Last night was his shining moment; I’m not saying he’s the new Paul Heyman, but he’s finally hit the point where you lean forward to listen, instead of wondering if it's snack time.

2. The Ladies Held It Down Shoutout to the women of Raw, who proved that they’re a force, even if WWE’s storyline writers seem to be getting their cues from daytime soap operas. Damage CTRL reunited, and while we’re not exactly cheering these former “villainous” heels just yet, it's nice to see them back together, wreaking a little havoc. And the main event tag team title match? Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill vs. Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez — a great showcase, even if it felt a bit underserved. Plus, we’ve got the women’s WarGames match coming up. While the story build-up hasn’t exactly been epic, it should still deliver in the ring.

3. The New Day Breakup (But Make It a Soap Opera) The New Day split continues, but subtlety has clearly taken a holiday. Gone are the nuanced tensions, replaced with the melodrama that only pro wrestling can deliver. That said, because these guys have been together forever, it’s hitting harder than your usual break-up script. This one still feels meaningful — unlike the twenty-something other breakups WWE’s running right now. (Seriously, it’s like WWE caught a case of “Breakup Fever” that’s spread faster than a social media trend.)

4. Bloodline Plot Thickens…On Raw? The Bloodline story continues to unfold — on Raw. (Why? Don’t think about it too hard.) The big surprise? Seth Rollins and Bronn Breaker were being recruited. Seth? Makes sense. Bronn? That’s a wild card if I’ve ever seen one. Is this storyline perfect? Not exactly. But with a legacy like the Bloodline, even the shaky moments hit the right emotional beats.

The Bad

1. Bronson Reed Brawl-a-palooza Last night was a great show if you’re into brawls — especially Bronson Reed's. Seriously, this guy has had more brawls this year than your favorite reality TV star has had “breakdowns.” Reed and Seth mixed it up for what feels like the fiftieth time, and it’s getting hard to keep track. I’m all for beef, but how about throwing Reed a victory once in a while? He’s like that bully who can talk tough but couldn’t knock over a house of cards. WWE, let’s get this guy a W before he’s forever the “brawl but no bite” guy.

The Ugly

1. WWE’s Love Affair with Breakups Finally, The Ugly. WWE has fallen head-over-heels for breakups — we’re talking Ross and Rachel-level drama here. Case in point: Judgement Day. It’s been, what, three months since they formed? And already they’re showing cracks in the foundation. It feels like WWE has one recipe to cook up tension, and it’s the “will they, won’t they” breakup storyline. Now, it worked with The Bloodline because it was fresh, unique, and had layers. But now? It's WWE’s only trick in the playbook.

Just the last year alone, we had hints of breakups everywhere. Judgement Day’s on the rocks, Theory and Waller aren’t seeing eye to eye, Bianca and Jade have tension, Nia and Tiffany’s bond is paper-thin, and even The New Day is splintering. It’s like WWE hit copy-paste, and we’re in for every possible combo of “friends turned enemies.” Can we mix it up a bit, please?

Wrapping It Up

So there it is, folks: last night’s Raw in all its ups, downs, and plot twists. At the end of the day, WWE still knows how to get us talking. And hey, as long as they keep bringing the surprises (and maybe lay off the breakups), we’ll keep tuning in. Here's hoping for a little storyline diversity in the weeks to come. After all, wrestling is at its best when it keeps us guessing, not groaning.

The Good: The Bloodline Segment

The Bloodline’s storyline always gets attention, and this week’s segment didn’t disappoint. While the reunion of the Bloodline felt a little rushed, especially considering that elements of the story could have been developed over a few more weeks, it still delivered. Roman Reigns’ limited schedule likely made it difficult to extend the build-up, but despite that, the angle came across as the highlight of the show. The tension and drama around The Bloodline continue to be compelling, and it remains the best part of SmackDown right now.

The Bad: The Women’s Title Situation

The ongoing women’s division storyline feels like it’s running in circles. Nia Jax has shown noticeable improvements in the ring, but the Tiffany storyline is dragging and becoming increasingly frustrating. It feels like WWE is stretching it out unnecessarily, and in doing so, they're neglecting the rest of the talented women on the roster. The division deserves better storytelling and more focus on other women who are equally deserving of spotlight moments.

The Ugly: The Finishes

The same issue continues to plague WWE: terrible finishes. Nearly every match ends with some form of interference or distraction, which only weakens the significance of the outcomes. It’s a shame, because WWE has made strides in many areas since Vince McMahon stepped down, but the constant use of interference in matches continues to undermine the credibility of the product. It’s as if WWE is afraid to have clean finishes, which ultimately devalues the results and leaves fans feeling unsatisfied.

Honorable Mentions: Kevin Owens & DiY

One positive takeaway was the brutal Kevin Owens piledriver on Randy Orton. The angle has potential, and if WWE follows up on it properly, it could lead to some exciting developments. Another honorable mention goes to DiY, who seem to be on the verge of turning heel. A heel turn is exactly what they need right now to elevate their characters, and I’m hoping it’s executed well.

Overall Rating: 7/10

While there were moments of brilliance, SmackDown this week left a lot to be desired in terms of consistency. The good was great, but the bad and ugly elements continue to hold the show back. Still, I’m looking forward to seeing how some of these storylines progress.