The excitement was palpable as WWE Raw unfolded, and there was an extra layer of celebration with the 19th anniversary of “Casino Royale,” a cherished entry in the James Bond franchise. As fans raised their vodka martinis in tribute, John Cena kicked off the show to an electric reception in New York City, akin to a celebrity athlete being hailed by adoring fans.
In an unexpected turn, Cena’s farewell was interrupted by Dirty Dom, prompting an impromptu six-person tag match featuring the Intercontinental Champion, Sheamus, Rey Mysterio, Finn Balor, and JD McDonagh. This spirited matchup was a nostalgic nod to the performing prowess of seasoned wrestlers, showcasing a mix of action and entertainment that perfectly embodied a classic house show vibe. Ultimately, the IC champion secured victory by pinning JD McDonagh, leaving the crowd energized.
The atmosphere remained lively when the New York Giants’ rookies made an appearance and exchanged banter with members of the Judgment Day. The presence of yet another celebrity, although unacknowledged in detail, added to the electrifying environment.
Turning to the women’s division, the dynamic Nikki Bella made her mark by attacking Stephanie Vaquer ahead of their official title match set for Survivor Series. Nikki’s fierce attitude has proved captivating, establishing her as a formidable presence heading into their highly anticipated showdown.
In another pivotal moment, Charlotte Flair’s potential involvement in the upcoming War Games was foreshadowed during Alexa Bliss’s impassioned plea for her best friend to rally to her side. The ensuing chaos involved a host of talent including Asuka, Kairi Sane, Nia Jax, and more, ultimately leading to Charlotte making her entrance with a kendo stick, hinting at her return to form.
GUNTHER’s comeback with a familiar theme music drew cheers, inviting a renewed sense of hope for fans. His match against Je’Von Evans was the highlight of the evening, effectively reestablishing GUNTHER’s dominance through a compelling showcase of athleticism and strategy. Je’Von, showcasing his talent as a gifted seller, engaged GUNTHER in a thrilling narrative centered on resilience and the fierce nature of competition. Despite Je’Von’s best efforts, GUNTHER’s experience proved too much, culminating in a victory after a hard-fought battle.
In the other tournament match, Dolph Ziggler faced Solo Sikoa in a nostalgic clash that elicited fond memories for fans, even as Solo emerged victorious. The crowd seemed to relish the rivalry, booing the nearby Philadelphia Eagles in a passionate display of sportsmanship.
Asuka’s bold approach to recruit Bayley for her War Games team added an unexpected twist, with Bayley’s swift refusal providing a humorous moment amidst the intensity of the night.
This episode of Raw not only celebrated some of wrestling’s most beloved figures but also advanced storylines and showcased emerging talent, leaving fans eager for what lies ahead.