WWE Raw results, highlights (Mar. 3): Iyo...

WWE Raw results, highlights (Mar. 3): Iyo...

After this past weekend’s Elimination Chamber, WWE is well into WrestleMania season. The first “WWE Raw” after all of the drama didn’t do much to advance one of the biggest WWE stories of all time – that will likely be saved for “WWE SmackDown,” when stars like Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton and Kevin Owens show up. Instead, everything that unfolded Monday night was entirely overshadowed by the show’s beginning and end, the latter of which stunningly crowned a new Women’s World Champion.Sky is the limit As soon as Rhea Ripley vs. Iyo Sky began, it was the match the world knew it would be. Both women went at each other 100 miles per hour. There were quick pin attempts, drop kicks from hell, outside suplexes, an Asuka Lock, an In-Sane Elbow and the classic Ripley DDT sell. To say it delivered would be an understatement, and as it went on, Sky began looking unbeatable – which she had been in previous matches against Ripley.

But still … wow. More than a few bewildered expletives tumbled out of the mouth of yours truly when it stayed that way and Sky scored the win by moonsault. Sky winning was a genuine surprise because WWE fumbled all of this no matter how you slice it. Charlotte Flair didn’t need the Royal Rumble win; that spot was primed for Sky to set up Ripley vs. Sky at WrestleMania 41, while Flair could’ve won the Elimination Chamber to land her Tiffany Stratton title shot. Even how Sky won was a miss, with Ripley seemingly turning into an idiot heel at the end of the match when she chose (literally nothing happened to prompt her) to be distracted by Bianca Belair ringside. It also looked like there was about to be a DQ loss for Ripley, which would’ve been bad as well, but this was just a stream of unforced errors that prevented an otherwise perfect match from being precisely that.

Ultimately, the Elimination Chamber winner Belair has clear unfinished business with the Jade Cargill and Naomi story (finally), but now there’s this wrinkle too. With Sky as the champion, there has to be a triple-threat match at WrestleMania 41 in the works between Sky, Ripley and Belair. The thing is, though, at least right now, it feels as if the latter has just been wholly shoe-horned into all of this. Can you guys believe it? I’m not a fan of a star-studded triple-threat match. (That being said, it’ll probably be a guaranteed banger.)Pipebomb 2.0 CM Punk at his most unhinged is unlike anyone else, isn’t he?

Punk kicked off Monday’s show and gave the world something akin to his classic pipebomb from back in the day. You’d have guessed this would just be about Seth Rollins, who cost Punk the men’s Elimination Chamber match – but no, he was ready to go after everyone, including The Rock and John Cena. Nothing was off limits – even Cena’s famed connection to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. That felt like a fever dream to hear on WWE programming. I can’t help but think back to when Bubba Ray Dudley wanted to bring his “Bully” gimmick back to the company after his stellar run with TNA as its world champion. WWE is embracing this current uncensored, nothing-is-off-limits era more than ever, and I’m very much here for it. I mean, the face of the company said “f***” into a microphone on Saturday. As much as I love my previously fantasy-booked Roman Reigns vs. Rollins vs. Punk triple-threat match at WrestleMania 41, things have to turn toward Punk calling in that favor and asking for Reigns’ help. Perhaps to take on Rollins, who then joins forces with The Rock and Cena purely out of his Punk hatred? It’s hard to really say right now – and that’s a good thing.

Ultimately, Rollins interrupted Punk’s promo, which was a bummer because he was – as Dr. Evil would say – spitting liquid hot magma. They brawled all around the ring and that was that. Punk vs. Rollins 2 goes down next Monday on “WWE Raw” in a steel cage match. I’m fantasy booking the Reigns return there, folks.? MONDAY NIGHT MONEY ? 1. Finn Balor is so salty in the most passive aggressive way toward the rest of The Judgment Day. This stable needs to dissolve – and at worst, it looks like he might be kicked out. But the man is money. 2. The War Raiders vs. the Creed Brothers was just big dudes doing big moves. It was pretty crazy. There wasn’t much substance to how the title match came together, but the teams made a great match, and the Raiders defended. I’ll take it. Because meat. 3. Speaking of meat, Bron Breakker killed Carlito with a spear. Watch it, then watch it again, and then watch it again. Seriously, y’all – look at this:? SOMEWHERE IN BETWEEN ? 1. There’s no steam at all behind the Gunther vs. Jey Uso feud, especially as other mid-carders (at best) get involved. Lately, it’s been as if Uso has to remind us he’s challenging Gunther at ‘Mania.

On the other hand, we got an extension of Gunther bullying Alpha Academy, which was excellent last week. This time, Gunther had a match with Otis, and it was unsurprisingly excellent. A fallaway slam to Gunther outside the ring was particularly nasty, and then Otis taking a powerbomb for the loss was a crazy sight. On the mic, the World Heavyweight Champion delivered some excellent heel digs by poking at Otis’ weight, which was fun considering he used to be significantly heavier himself. 2. Karrion Kross decided to make his presence felt in an AJ Styles interview after the latter was asked about the Cena turn. I like that Kross appears to be poking around and getting in several wrestlers’ heads. Hopefully, WWE has a plan for it other than him just being used as a backstage crutch character. 3. Penta and Ludwig Kaiser had a dust-up in the ring to continue their feud for some reason. Kaiser’s promo was great and a reminder why he deserves a better push. Penta attacking him after beating him one-on-one seems off, though. Also, Penta in street clothes – with gloves and a mask – is kind of hilarious. He feels like one of those Kane type characters who should literally only always wear their ring gear in any and every situation. You know what I’m talking about. Black and red stitching for life.? RAW DEAL ? 1. I’m ready to admit it: Pat McAfee sucks on commentary. He’s terrible, and didn’t ruin the Cena turn, but he was so terribly corny any time he spoke, adding nothing. We know why he’s in this spot: He’s a popular fan. Well, the novelty has worn off.

2. Dragon Lee and Rey Mysterio take on The New Day in a tornado tag match on next Monday’s “WWE Raw.” It should’ve ended last week between these teams, but hopefully, that one’s it. 3. Balor is getting both sides of the coin now because apparently the Styles vs. Breakker program isn’t happening – for now. The inaugural Universal Champion told Breakker he was only the Intercontinental Champion because The Judgment Day lets him. Nah, man. This ain’t it.? Uncrowned Gem of the Night ? Lyra Valkyria has fully won me over. The Women’s Intercontinental Champion defended her title once again by defeating Ivy Nile and earning our Uncrowned Gem of the Night.

Valkyria is such a great performer, and she sold the targeting of her knee like death. Obviously, her promo work is where improvements will be made over time, but between the ropes, I want to see her against everyone. She’s already proven to be the perfect choice as this title’s inaugural holder. WWE should take its own notes and apply them to Chelsea Green on the U.S. title’s side, because that has been rough. ? I give this show a Crown score of: 6.5/10 ?WWE Raw results, highlights (Mar. 3): Iyo Sky stuns Rhea Ripley; CM Punk goes scorched earth on everyone After this past weekend’s Elimination Chamber, WWE is well into WrestleMania season. The first “WWE Raw” after all of the drama didn’t do much to advance one of the biggest WWE stories of all time – that will likely be saved for “WWE SmackDown,” when stars like Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton and Kevin Owens show up. Instead, everything that unfolded Monday night was entirely overshadowed by the show’s beginning and end, the latter of which stunningly crowned a new Women’s World Champion.Sky is the limit As soon as Rhea Ripley vs. Iyo Sky began, it was the match the world knew it would be. Both women went at each other 100 miles per hour. There were quick pin attempts, drop kicks from hell, outside suplexes, an Asuka Lock, an In-Sane Elbow and the classic Ripley DDT sell. To say it delivered would be an understatement, and as it went on, Sky began looking unbeatable – which she had been in previous matches against Ripley.

But still … wow. More than a few bewildered expletives tumbled out of the mouth of yours truly when it stayed that way and Sky scored the win by moonsault. Sky winning was a genuine surprise because WWE fumbled all of this no matter how you slice it. Charlotte Flair didn’t need the Royal Rumble win; that spot was primed for Sky to set up Ripley vs. Sky at WrestleMania 41, while Flair could’ve won the Elimination Chamber to land her Tiffany Stratton title shot. Even how Sky won was a miss, with Ripley seemingly turning into an idiot heel at the end of the match when she chose (literally nothing happened to prompt her) to be distracted by Bianca Belair ringside. It also looked like there was about to be a DQ loss for Ripley, which would’ve been bad as well, but this was just a stream of unforced errors that prevented an otherwise perfect match from being precisely that.

Ultimately, the Elimination Chamber winner Belair has clear unfinished business with the Jade Cargill and Naomi story (finally), but now there’s this wrinkle too. With Sky as the champion, there has to be a triple-threat match at WrestleMania 41 in the works between Sky, Ripley and Belair. The thing is, though, at least right now, it feels as if the latter has just been wholly shoe-horned into all of this. Can you guys believe it? I’m not a fan of a star-studded triple-threat match. (That being said, it’ll probably be a guaranteed banger.)Pipebomb 2.0 CM Punk at his most unhinged is unlike anyone else, isn’t he?

Punk kicked off Monday’s show and gave the world something akin to his classic pipebomb from back in the day. You’d have guessed this would just be about Seth Rollins, who cost Punk the men’s Elimination Chamber match – but no, he was ready to go after everyone, including The Rock and John Cena. Nothing was off limits – even Cena’s famed connection to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. That felt like a fever dream to hear on WWE programming. I can’t help but think back to when Bubba Ray Dudley wanted to bring his “Bully” gimmick back to the company after his stellar run with TNA as its world champion. WWE is embracing this current uncensored, nothing-is-off-limits era more than ever, and I’m very much here for it. I mean, the face of the company said “f***” into a microphone on Saturday. As much as I love my previously fantasy-booked Roman Reigns vs. Rollins vs. Punk triple-threat match at WrestleMania 41, things have to turn toward Punk calling in that favor and asking for Reigns’ help. Perhaps to take on Rollins, who then joins forces with The Rock and Cena purely out of his Punk hatred? It’s hard to really say right now – and that’s a good thing.

Ultimately, Rollins interrupted Punk’s promo, which was a bummer because he was – as Dr. Evil would say – spitting liquid hot magma. They brawled all around the ring and that was that. Punk vs. Rollins 2 goes down next Monday on “WWE Raw” in a steel cage match. I’m fantasy booking the Reigns return there, folks.? MONDAY NIGHT MONEY ? 1. Finn Balor is so salty in the most passive aggressive way toward the rest of The Judgment Day. This stable needs to dissolve – and at worst, it looks like he might be kicked out. But the man is money. 2. The War Raiders vs. the Creed Brothers was just big dudes doing big moves. It was pretty crazy. There wasn’t much substance to how the title match came together, but the teams made a great match, and the Raiders defended. I’ll take it. Because meat. 3. Speaking of meat, Bron Breakker killed Carlito with a spear. Watch it, then watch it again, and then watch it again. Seriously, y’all – look at this:? SOMEWHERE IN BETWEEN ? 1. There’s no steam at all behind the Gunther vs. Jey Uso feud, especially as other mid-carders (at best) get involved. Lately, it’s been as if Uso has to remind us he’s challenging Gunther at ‘Mania.

On the other hand, we got an extension of Gunther bullying Alpha Academy, which was excellent last week. This time, Gunther had a match with Otis, and it was unsurprisingly excellent. A fallaway slam to Gunther outside the ring was particularly nasty, and then Otis taking a powerbomb for the loss was a crazy sight. On the mic, the World Heavyweight Champion delivered some excellent heel digs by poking at Otis’ weight, which was fun considering he used to be significantly heavier himself. 2. Karrion Kross decided to make his presence felt in an AJ Styles interview after the latter was asked about the Cena turn. I like that Kross appears to be poking around and getting in several wrestlers’ heads. Hopefully, WWE has a plan for it other than him just being used as a backstage crutch character. 3. Penta and Ludwig Kaiser had a dust-up in the ring to continue their feud for some reason. Kaiser’s promo was great and a reminder why he deserves a better push. Penta attacking him after beating him one-on-one seems off, though. Also, Penta in street clothes – with gloves and a mask – is kind of hilarious. He feels like one of those Kane type characters who should literally only always wear their ring gear in any and every situation. You know what I’m talking about. Black and red stitching for life.? RAW DEAL ? 1. I’m ready to admit it: Pat McAfee sucks on commentary. He’s terrible, and didn’t ruin the Cena turn, but he was so terribly corny any time he spoke, adding nothing. We know why he’s in this spot: He’s a popular fan. Well, the novelty has worn off.

2. Dragon Lee and Rey Mysterio take on The New Day in a tornado tag match on next Monday’s “WWE Raw.” It should’ve ended last week between these teams, but hopefully, that one’s it. 3. Balor is getting both sides of the coin now because apparently the Styles vs. Breakker program isn’t happening – for now. The inaugural Universal Champion told Breakker he was only the Intercontinental Champion because The Judgment Day lets him. Nah, man. This ain’t it.? Uncrowned Gem of the Night ? Lyra Valkyria has fully won me over. The Women’s Intercontinental Champion defended her title once again by defeating Ivy Nile and earning our Uncrowned Gem of the Night.

Valkyria is such a great performer, and she sold the targeting of her knee like death. Obviously, her promo work is where improvements will be made over time, but between the ropes, I want to see her against everyone. She’s already proven to be the perfect choice as this title’s inaugural holder. WWE should take its own notes and apply them to Chelsea Green on the U.S. title’s side, because that has been rough. ? I give this show a Crown score of: 6.5/10 ?WWE Raw results, highlights (Mar. 3): Iyo Sky stuns Rhea Ripley; CM Punk goes scorched earth on everyone After this past weekend’s Elimination Chamber, WWE is well into WrestleMania season. The first “WWE Raw” after all of the drama didn’t do much to advance one of the biggest WWE stories of all time – that will likely be saved for “WWE SmackDown,” when stars like Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton and Kevin Owens show up. Instead, everything that unfolded Monday night was entirely overshadowed by the show’s beginning and end, the latter of which stunningly crowned a new Women’s World Champion.Sky is the limit As soon as Rhea Ripley vs. Iyo Sky began, it was the match the world knew it would be. Both women went at each other 100 miles per hour. There were quick pin attempts, drop kicks from hell, outside suplexes, an Asuka Lock, an In-Sane Elbow and the classic Ripley DDT sell. To say it delivered would be an understatement, and as it went on, Sky began looking unbeatable – which she had been in previous matches against Ripley.

But still … wow. More than a few bewildered expletives tumbled out of the mouth of yours truly when it stayed that way and Sky scored the win by moonsault. Sky winning was a genuine surprise because WWE fumbled all of this no matter how you slice it. Charlotte Flair didn’t need the Royal Rumble win; that spot was primed for Sky to set up Ripley vs. Sky at WrestleMania 41, while Flair could’ve won the Elimination Chamber to land her Tiffany Stratton title shot. Even how Sky won was a miss, with Ripley seemingly turning into an idiot heel at the end of the match when she chose (literally nothing happened to prompt her) to be distracted by Bianca Belair ringside. It also looked like there was about to be a DQ loss for Ripley, which would’ve been bad as well, but this was just a stream of unforced errors that prevented an otherwise perfect match from being precisely that.

Ultimately, the Elimination Chamber winner Belair has clear unfinished business with the Jade Cargill and Naomi story (finally), but now there’s this wrinkle too. With Sky as the champion, there has to be a triple-threat match at WrestleMania 41 in the works between Sky, Ripley and Belair. The thing is, though, at least right now, it feels as if the latter has just been wholly shoe-horned into all of this. Can you guys believe it? I’m not a fan of a star-studded triple-threat match. (That being said, it’ll probably be a guaranteed banger.)Pipebomb 2.0 CM Punk at his most unhinged is unlike anyone else, isn’t he?

Punk kicked off Monday’s show and gave the world something akin to his classic pipebomb from back in the day. You’d have guessed this would just be about Seth Rollins, who cost Punk the men’s Elimination Chamber match – but no, he was ready to go after everyone, including The Rock and John Cena. Nothing was off limits – even Cena’s famed connection to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. That felt like a fever dream to hear on WWE programming. I can’t help but think back to when Bubba Ray Dudley wanted to bring his “Bully” gimmick back to the company after his stellar run with TNA as its world champion. WWE is embracing this current uncensored, nothing-is-off-limits era more than ever, and I’m very much here for it. I mean, the face of the company said “f***” into a microphone on Saturday. As much as I love my previously fantasy-booked Roman Reigns vs. Rollins vs. Punk triple-threat match at WrestleMania 41, things have to turn toward Punk calling in that favor and asking for Reigns’ help. Perhaps to take on Rollins, who then joins forces with The Rock and Cena purely out of his Punk hatred? It’s hard to really say right now – and that’s a good thing.

Ultimately, Rollins interrupted Punk’s promo, which was a bummer because he was – as Dr. Evil would say – spitting liquid hot magma. They brawled all around the ring and that was that. Punk vs. Rollins 2 goes down next Monday on “WWE Raw” in a steel cage match. I’m fantasy booking the Reigns return there, folks.? MONDAY NIGHT MONEY ? 1. Finn Balor is so salty in the most passive aggressive way toward the rest of The Judgment Day. This stable needs to dissolve – and at worst, it looks like he might be kicked out. But the man is money. 2. The War Raiders vs. the Creed Brothers was just big dudes doing big moves. It was pretty crazy. There wasn’t much substance to how the title match came together, but the teams made a great match, and the Raiders defended. I’ll take it. Because meat. 3. Speaking of meat, Bron Breakker killed Carlito with a spear. Watch it, then watch it again, and then watch it again. Seriously, y’all – look at this:? SOMEWHERE IN BETWEEN ? 1. There’s no steam at all behind the Gunther vs. Jey Uso feud, especially as other mid-carders (at best) get involved. Lately, it’s been as if Uso has to remind us he’s challenging Gunther at ‘Mania.

On the other hand, we got an extension of Gunther bullying Alpha Academy, which was excellent last week. This time, Gunther had a match with Otis, and it was unsurprisingly excellent. A fallaway slam to Gunther outside the ring was particularly nasty, and then Otis taking a powerbomb for the loss was a crazy sight. On the mic, the World Heavyweight Champion delivered some excellent heel digs by poking at Otis’ weight, which was fun considering he used to be significantly heavier himself. 2. Karrion Kross decided to make his presence felt in an AJ Styles interview after the latter was asked about the Cena turn. I like that Kross appears to be poking around and getting in several wrestlers’ heads. Hopefully, WWE has a plan for it other than him just being used as a backstage crutch character. 3. Penta and Ludwig Kaiser had a dust-up in the ring to continue their feud for some reason. Kaiser’s promo was great and a reminder why he deserves a better push. Penta attacking him after beating him one-on-one seems off, though. Also, Penta in street clothes – with gloves and a mask – is kind of hilarious. He feels like one of those Kane type characters who should literally only always wear their ring gear in any and every situation. You know what I’m talking about. Black and red stitching for life.? RAW DEAL ? 1. I’m ready to admit it: Pat McAfee sucks on commentary. He’s terrible, and didn’t ruin the Cena turn, but he was so terribly corny any time he spoke, adding nothing. We know why he’s in this spot: He’s a popular fan. Well, the novelty has worn off.

2. Dragon Lee and Rey Mysterio take on The New Day in a tornado tag match on next Monday’s “WWE Raw.” It should’ve ended last week between these teams, but hopefully, that one’s it. 3. Balor is getting both sides of the coin now because apparently the Styles vs. Breakker program isn’t happening – for now. The inaugural Universal Champion told Breakker he was only the Intercontinental Champion because The Judgment Day lets him. Nah, man. This ain’t it.? Uncrowned Gem of the Night ? Lyra Valkyria has fully won me over. The Women’s Intercontinental Champion defended her title once again by defeating Ivy Nile and earning our Uncrowned Gem of the Night.

Valkyria is such a great performer, and she sold the targeting of her knee like death. Obviously, her promo work is where improvements will be made over time, but between the ropes, I want to see her against everyone. She’s already proven to be the perfect choice as this title’s inaugural holder. WWE should take its own notes and apply them to Chelsea Green on the U.S. title’s side, because that has been rough. ? I give this show a Crown score of: 6.5/10 ?WWE Raw results, highlights (Mar. 3): Iyo Sky stuns Rhea Ripley; CM Punk goes scorched earth on everyone After this past weekend’s Elimination Chamber, WWE is well into WrestleMania season. The first “WWE Raw” after all of the drama didn’t do much to advance one of the biggest WWE stories of all time – that will likely be saved for “WWE SmackDown,” when stars like Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton and Kevin Owens show up. Instead, everything that unfolded Monday night was entirely overshadowed by the show’s beginning and end, the latter of which stunningly crowned a new Women’s World Champion.Sky is the limit As soon as Rhea Ripley vs. Iyo Sky began, it was the match the world knew it would be. Both women went at each other 100 miles per hour. There were quick pin attempts, drop kicks from hell, outside suplexes, an Asuka Lock, an In-Sane Elbow and the classic Ripley DDT sell. To say it delivered would be an understatement, and as it went on, Sky began looking unbeatable – which she had been in previous matches against Ripley.

But still … wow. More than a few bewildered expletives tumbled out of the mouth of yours truly when it stayed that way and Sky scored the win by moonsault. Sky winning was a genuine surprise because WWE fumbled all of this no matter how you slice it. Charlotte Flair didn’t need the Royal Rumble win; that spot was primed for Sky to set up Ripley vs. Sky at WrestleMania 41, while Flair could’ve won the Elimination Chamber to land her Tiffany Stratton title shot. Even how Sky won was a miss, with Ripley seemingly turning into an idiot heel at the end of the match when she chose (literally nothing happened to prompt her) to be distracted by Bianca Belair ringside. It also looked like there was about to be a DQ loss for Ripley, which would’ve been bad as well, but this was just a stream of unforced errors that prevented an otherwise perfect match from being precisely that.

Ultimately, the Elimination Chamber winner Belair has clear unfinished business with the Jade Cargill and Naomi story (finally), but now there’s this wrinkle too. With Sky as the champion, there has to be a triple-threat match at WrestleMania 41 in the works between Sky, Ripley and Belair. The thing is, though, at least right now, it feels as if the latter has just been wholly shoe-horned into all of this. Can you guys believe it? I’m not a fan of a star-studded triple-threat match. (That being said, it’ll probably be a guaranteed banger.)Pipebomb 2.0 CM Punk at his most unhinged is unlike anyone else, isn’t he?

Punk kicked off Monday’s show and gave the world something akin to his classic pipebomb from back in the day. You’d have guessed this would just be about Seth Rollins, who cost Punk the men’s Elimination Chamber match – but no, he was ready to go after everyone, including The Rock and John Cena. Nothing was off limits – even Cena’s famed connection to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. That felt like a fever dream to hear on WWE programming. I can’t help but think back to when Bubba Ray Dudley wanted to bring his “Bully” gimmick back to the company after his stellar run with TNA as its world champion. WWE is embracing this current uncensored, nothing-is-off-limits era more than ever, and I’m very much here for it. I mean, the face of the company said “f***” into a microphone on Saturday. As much as I love my previously fantasy-booked Roman Reigns vs. Rollins vs. Punk triple-threat match at WrestleMania 41, things have to turn toward Punk calling in that favor and asking for Reigns’ help. Perhaps to take on Rollins, who then joins forces with The Rock and Cena purely out of his Punk hatred? It’s hard to really say right now – and that’s a good thing.

Ultimately, Rollins interrupted Punk’s promo, which was a bummer because he was – as Dr. Evil would say – spitting liquid hot magma. They brawled all around the ring and that was that. Punk vs. Rollins 2 goes down next Monday on “WWE Raw” in a steel cage match. I’m fantasy booking the Reigns return there, folks.? MONDAY NIGHT MONEY ? 1. Finn Balor is so salty in the most passive aggressive way toward the rest of The Judgment Day. This stable needs to dissolve – and at worst, it looks like he might be kicked out. But the man is money. 2. The War Raiders vs. the Creed Brothers was just big dudes doing big moves. It was pretty crazy. There wasn’t much substance to how the title match came together, but the teams made a great match, and the Raiders defended. I’ll take it. Because meat. 3. Speaking of meat, Bron Breakker killed Carlito with a spear. Watch it, then watch it again, and then watch it again. Seriously, y’all – look at this:? SOMEWHERE IN BETWEEN ? 1. There’s no steam at all behind the Gunther vs. Jey Uso feud, especially as other mid-carders (at best) get involved. Lately, it’s been as if Uso has to remind us he’s challenging Gunther at ‘Mania.

On the other hand, we got an extension of Gunther bullying Alpha Academy, which was excellent last week. This time, Gunther had a match with Otis, and it was unsurprisingly excellent. A fallaway slam to Gunther outside the ring was particularly nasty, and then Otis taking a powerbomb for the loss was a crazy sight. On the mic, the World Heavyweight Champion delivered some excellent heel digs by poking at Otis’ weight, which was fun considering he used to be significantly heavier himself. 2. Karrion Kross decided to make his presence felt in an AJ Styles interview after the latter was asked about the Cena turn. I like that Kross appears to be poking around and getting in several wrestlers’ heads. Hopefully, WWE has a plan for it other than him just being used as a backstage crutch character. 3. Penta and Ludwig Kaiser had a dust-up in the ring to continue their feud for some reason. Kaiser’s promo was great and a reminder why he deserves a better push. Penta attacking him after beating him one-on-one seems off, though. Also, Penta in street clothes – with gloves and a mask – is kind of hilarious. He feels like one of those Kane type characters who should literally only always wear their ring gear in any and every situation. You know what I’m talking about. Black and red stitching for life.? RAW DEAL ? 1. I’m ready to admit it: Pat McAfee sucks on commentary. He’s terrible, and didn’t ruin the Cena turn, but he was so terribly corny any time he spoke, adding nothing. We know why he’s in this spot: He’s a popular fan. Well, the novelty has worn off.

2. Dragon Lee and Rey Mysterio take on The New Day in a tornado tag match on next Monday’s “WWE Raw.” It should’ve ended last week between these teams, but hopefully, that one’s it. 3. Balor is getting both sides of the coin now because apparently the Styles vs. Breakker program isn’t happening – for now. The inaugural Universal Champion told Breakker he was only the Intercontinental Champion because The Judgment Day lets him. Nah, man. This ain’t it.? Uncrowned Gem of the Night ? Lyra Valkyria has fully won me over. The Women’s Intercontinental Champion defended her title once again by defeating Ivy Nile and earning our Uncrowned Gem of the Night.

Valkyria is such a great performer, and she sold the targeting of her knee like death. Obviously, her promo work is where improvements will be made over time, but between the ropes, I want to see her against everyone. She’s already proven to be the perfect choice as this title’s inaugural holder. WWE should take its own notes and apply them to Chelsea Green on the U.S. title’s side, because that has been rough. ? I give this show a Crown score of: 6.5/10 ?WWE Raw results, highlights (Mar. 3): Iyo Sky stuns Rhea Ripley; CM Punk goes scorched earth on everyone After this past weekend’s Elimination Chamber, WWE is well into WrestleMania season. The first “WWE Raw” after all of the drama didn’t do much to advance one of the biggest WWE stories of all time – that will likely be saved for “WWE SmackDown,” when stars like Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton and Kevin Owens show up. Instead, everything that unfolded Monday night was entirely overshadowed by the show’s beginning and end, the latter of which stunningly crowned a new Women’s World Champion.Sky is the limit As soon as Rhea Ripley vs. Iyo Sky began, it was the match the world knew it would be. Both women went at each other 100 miles per hour. There were quick pin attempts, drop kicks from hell, outside suplexes, an Asuka Lock, an In-Sane Elbow and the classic Ripley DDT sell. To say it delivered would be an understatement, and as it went on, Sky began looking unbeatable – which she had been in previous matches against Ripley.

But still … wow. More than a few bewildered expletives tumbled out of the mouth of yours truly when it stayed that way and Sky scored the win by moonsault. Sky winning was a genuine surprise because WWE fumbled all of this no matter how you slice it. Charlotte Flair didn’t need the Royal Rumble win; that spot was primed for Sky to set up Ripley vs. Sky at WrestleMania 41, while Flair could’ve won the Elimination Chamber to land her Tiffany Stratton title shot. Even how Sky won was a miss, with Ripley seemingly turning into an idiot heel at the end of the match when she chose (literally nothing happened to prompt her) to be distracted by Bianca Belair ringside. It also looked like there was about to be a DQ loss for Ripley, which would’ve been bad as well, but this was just a stream of unforced errors that prevented an otherwise perfect match from being precisely that.

Ultimately, the Elimination Chamber winner Belair has clear unfinished business with the Jade Cargill and Naomi story (finally), but now there’s this wrinkle too. With Sky as the champion, there has to be a triple-threat match at WrestleMania 41 in the works between Sky, Ripley and Belair. The thing is, though, at least right now, it feels as if the latter has just been wholly shoe-horned into all of this. Can you guys believe it? I’m not a fan of a star-studded triple-threat match. (That being said, it’ll probably be a guaranteed banger.)Pipebomb 2.0 CM Punk at his most unhinged is unlike anyone else, isn’t he?

Punk kicked off Monday’s show and gave the world something akin to his classic pipebomb from back in the day. You’d have guessed this would just be about Seth Rollins, who cost Punk the men’s Elimination Chamber match – but no, he was ready to go after everyone, including The Rock and John Cena. Nothing was off limits – even Cena’s famed connection to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. That felt like a fever dream to hear on WWE programming. I can’t help but think back to when Bubba Ray Dudley wanted to bring his “Bully” gimmick back to the company after his stellar run with TNA as its world champion. WWE is embracing this current uncensored, nothing-is-off-limits era more than ever, and I’m very much here for it. I mean, the face of the company said “f***” into a microphone on Saturday. As much as I love my previously fantasy-booked Roman Reigns vs. Rollins vs. Punk triple-threat match at WrestleMania 41, things have to turn toward Punk calling in that favor and asking for Reigns’ help. Perhaps to take on Rollins, who then joins forces with The Rock and Cena purely out of his Punk hatred? It’s hard to really say right now – and that’s a good thing.

Ultimately, Rollins interrupted Punk’s promo, which was a bummer because he was – as Dr. Evil would say – spitting liquid hot magma. They brawled all around the ring and that was that. Punk vs. Rollins 2 goes down next Monday on “WWE Raw” in a steel cage match. I’m fantasy booking the Reigns return there, folks.? MONDAY NIGHT MONEY ? 1. Finn Balor is so salty in the most passive aggressive way toward the rest of The Judgment Day. This stable needs to dissolve – and at worst, it looks like he might be kicked out. But the man is money. 2. The War Raiders vs. the Creed Brothers was just big dudes doing big moves. It was pretty crazy. There wasn’t much substance to how the title match came together, but the teams made a great match, and the Raiders defended. I’ll take it. Because meat. 3. Speaking of meat, Bron Breakker killed Carlito with a spear. Watch it, then watch it again, and then watch it again. Seriously, y’all – look at this:? SOMEWHERE IN BETWEEN ? 1. There’s no steam at all behind the Gunther vs. Jey Uso feud, especially as other mid-carders (at best) get involved. Lately, it’s been as if Uso has to remind us he’s challenging Gunther at ‘Mania.

On the other hand, we got an extension of Gunther bullying Alpha Academy, which was excellent last week. This time, Gunther had a match with Otis, and it was unsurprisingly excellent. A fallaway slam to Gunther outside the ring was particularly nasty, and then Otis taking a powerbomb for the loss was a crazy sight. On the mic, the World Heavyweight Champion delivered some excellent heel digs by poking at Otis’ weight, which was fun considering he used to be significantly heavier himself. 2. Karrion Kross decided to make his presence felt in an AJ Styles interview after the latter was asked about the Cena turn. I like that Kross appears to be poking around and getting in several wrestlers’ heads. Hopefully, WWE has a plan for it other than him just being used as a backstage crutch character. 3. Penta and Ludwig Kaiser had a dust-up in the ring to continue their feud for some reason. Kaiser’s promo was great and a reminder why he deserves a better push. Penta attacking him after beating him one-on-one seems off, though. Also, Penta in street clothes – with gloves and a mask – is kind of hilarious. He feels like one of those Kane type characters who should literally only always wear their ring gear in any and every situation. You know what I’m talking about. Black and red stitching for life.? RAW DEAL ? 1. I’m ready to admit it: Pat McAfee sucks on commentary. He’s terrible, and didn’t ruin the Cena turn, but he was so terribly corny any time he spoke, adding nothing. We know why he’s in this spot: He’s a popular fan. Well, the novelty has worn off.

2. Dragon Lee and Rey Mysterio take on The New Day in a tornado tag match on next Monday’s “WWE Raw.” It should’ve ended last week between these teams, but hopefully, that one’s it. 3. Balor is getting both sides of the coin now because apparently the Styles vs. Breakker program isn’t happening – for now. The inaugural Universal Champion told Breakker he was only the Intercontinental Champion because The Judgment Day lets him. Nah, man. This ain’t it.? Uncrowned Gem of the Night ? Lyra Valkyria has fully won me over. The Women’s Intercontinental Champion defended her title once again by defeating Ivy Nile and earning our Uncrowned Gem of the Night.

Valkyria is such a great performer, and she sold the targeting of her knee like death. Obviously, her promo work is where improvements will be made over time, but between the ropes, I want to see her against everyone. She’s already proven to be the perfect choice as this title’s inaugural holder. WWE should take its own notes and apply them to Chelsea Green on the U.S. title’s side, because that has been rough. ? I give this show a Crown score of: 6.5/10 ?