On the final Monday Night RAW before SummerSlam, several pay-per-view quality matches elevated the show that would have otherwise been lackluster. Also, the debut of an alter ego that Seth Rollins promos hyped up to be the stuff of legend gave fans a memorable moment as the coronation of the first WWE Universal champion approaches.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best performances on this week’s RAW.
5. Heath Slater: Sure, Heath Slater took an unwanted trip to Suplex City. Sure, Brock Lesnar said he didn’t give a s**t about his kids. But the self-proclaimed “hottest free agent†continues to bring an entertainment value to WWE programming that is matched by a select few. While Slater may never reach main event status, getting beat up by those at that level will make him a WWE staple for years to come.
4. JeriKO: It’s a random pairing but the Canadian version of Beavis and Butthead continue to show their wit is only topped by their in-ring acumen. They will face Enzo and Cass at SummerSlam in their first high-profile match as a team but Chris Jericho and Kevin Owens likely have a future as partners for the foreseeable future.
3. Cesaro: He voiced his displeasure about being drafted to RAW the night of the WWE Draft but promised to entertain fans by speaking the language he knows best….the language of wrestling. After his loss to Rusev last week, Cesaro will start a best of seven series with Sheamus at SummerSlam, giving both men an opportunity to display their in-ring talents.
2. Brock Lesnar: The RKO may knock Lesnar down but it will not keep him down. Randy Orton and Lesnar will fight for the first time in nearly 14 years on Sunday but the former UFC Heavyweight champion was in rare form on Monday, slamming the “One Man Band†around the like he was Jimi Hendrix’ guitar. “The Beast Incarnate†is always the favorite and entering Sunday, that hasn’t changed.
1. Finn Balor (Demon King): After Seth Rollins taunted Balor and his painted alter ego, Demon King made his presence felt on Monday, entering the RAW arena for the first time as red smoke and excitement filled the arena. Many felt it was a waste to have Balor’s alter ego appear before SummerSlam but sometimes it’s better to appreciate the moment than plan ahead for it. The Balor Club is worldwide and on Sunday, Balor will try to capture the WWE Universal championship to prove it.
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