Raw Monday Night 2022: Results, Highlights, And Analysis
Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive deep into Raw Monday Night 2022, dissecting all the electrifying moments, shocking upsets, and unforgettable highlights. This year has been a rollercoaster for WWE's flagship show, and we're here to break down everything that made it so memorable.
Key Storylines and Rivalries
Raw in 2022 was defined by several major storylines that captivated audiences week after week. One of the most prominent was the intense rivalry between Seth Rollins and Cody Rhodes. This feud was personal, brutal, and delivered some of the best matches of the year. Seth Rollins, ever theArchitect, relentlessly targeted Cody, exploiting his weaknesses and pushing him to his absolute limit. Cody, on the other hand, sought to prove himself and cement his legacy in WWE, creating a compelling narrative that had fans on the edge of their seats. Their Hell in a Cell match, where Cody wrestled with a torn pectoral muscle, became an instant classic, showcasing his incredible toughness and determination.
Another standout storyline was the rise of Bianca Belair as the Raw Women's Champion. Bianca Belair consistently delivered stellar performances, defending her title against a host of formidable opponents. Her feud with Becky Lynch was particularly gripping, filled with intense promos and hard-hitting matches. Belair's athleticism, charisma, and unwavering spirit made her a fan favorite, and her reign as champion was marked by a series of memorable moments. She embodies what a modern-day champion should be, inspiring fans with her dedication and perseverance.
The tag team division also saw its fair share of drama, with teams like The Usos and The Street Profits battling for supremacy. Their matches were high-energy and action-packed, showcasing the incredible athleticism and teamwork of both duos. The Usos' dominance as Undisputed Tag Team Champions added a layer of intrigue to the division, as teams vied to dethrone them and claim the top spot. The Street Profits, with their infectious energy and impressive in-ring skills, proved to be worthy contenders, pushing the Usos to their limits in a series of thrilling encounters. These rivalries kept the tag team scene fresh and exciting, providing plenty of entertainment for fans.
These key storylines and rivalries were the backbone of Raw in 2022, providing the drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments that kept fans tuning in every week. The dedication and passion of the performers involved elevated these narratives, making them truly special and memorable.
Top Matches and Moments
2022 was packed with show-stopping matches on Raw. Cody Rhodes' Hell in a Cell match against Seth Rollins was an instant classic. The sheer grit and determination Cody displayed while wrestling with a severe injury were awe-inspiring. This match wasn't just about winning or losing; it was about proving his mettle and showing the world what he was capable of. The visual of Cody's bruised and battered body will forever be etched in the minds of wrestling fans, a testament to his unwavering commitment.
Bianca Belair and Becky Lynch's clashes were also a highlight. Their SummerSlam encounter was particularly memorable, with both women leaving it all in the ring. Becky Lynch's transformation into a babyface added another layer to their rivalry, making their matches even more compelling. The athleticism and storytelling in their matches were top-notch, demonstrating their incredible chemistry and skill. These matches were a testament to the strength and talent of the women's division, showcasing the evolution of women's wrestling in WWE.
Another unforgettable moment was Edge's return and subsequent feud with The Judgment Day. Edge's promo after being betrayed by his own faction was incredibly emotional and powerful. His transformation into a vengeful anti-hero was captivating, and his matches against The Judgment Day were filled with intensity and drama. Edge's return reminded fans why he is considered one of the greatest of all time, proving that he can still deliver compelling storylines and electrifying performances. This storyline kept fans invested, as they eagerly awaited each new development in Edge's quest for revenge.
These top matches and moments were pivotal in defining Raw in 2022, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of the WWE roster. They provided the excitement, drama, and unforgettable memories that kept fans coming back for more.
Rising Stars and Breakout Performances
Raw in 2022 saw the emergence of several new stars. Austin Theory, with his cocky attitude and impressive in-ring skills, started to gain significant momentum. His interactions with Vince McMahon were entertaining, and his eventual Money in the Bank win signaled a bright future. Austin Theory has all the tools to become a top star in WWE, and his progress throughout 2022 was impressive. He represents the next generation of talent, and his journey is one to watch.
Dominik Mysterio's heel turn and alliance with The Judgment Day also marked a significant turning point. His character change was unexpected, and it added a new dimension to his persona. Dominik's evolution from a timid young man to a cunning and ruthless heel was fascinating to watch. This transformation has given him a new lease on his WWE career, and he has the potential to become a major player in the years to come.
Liv Morgan also had a breakout year, capturing the SmackDown Women's Championship. While her reign was relatively short, it was a significant achievement for a performer who had long been considered an underdog. Liv's popularity with the fans is undeniable, and her championship win was a testament to her hard work and dedication. She represents the heart and soul of WWE, and her success is an inspiration to aspiring wrestlers everywhere.
These rising stars and breakout performances injected fresh energy into Raw, providing fans with new faces to cheer for and new storylines to follow. Their success is a testament to the depth of talent in WWE, and it bodes well for the future of the company.
Overall Analysis and Grade
Overall, Raw in 2022 had its ups and downs. The strong storylines and standout matches were definitely highlights, but there were also periods of inconsistency. The rise of new stars like Austin Theory and Dominik Mysterio was a positive sign, but some long-term booking decisions left fans scratching their heads.
One of the strengths of Raw in 2022 was its ability to create compelling rivalries. The feuds between Seth Rollins and Cody Rhodes, Bianca Belair and Becky Lynch, and Edge and The Judgment Day were all incredibly engaging. These rivalries were built on strong storytelling and intense in-ring action, providing fans with plenty to invest in. However, the show sometimes struggled with maintaining consistency in its storylines, with some narratives losing momentum or being abruptly dropped.
The quality of matches on Raw in 2022 was generally high. The performers consistently delivered exciting and memorable encounters, showcasing their athleticism and skill. However, the show sometimes relied too heavily on rematches, which could become repetitive. Introducing fresh matchups and new combinations of opponents would help to keep the product feeling fresh and exciting.
Booking decisions were a mixed bag. Some choices, such as Cody Rhodes' victory over Seth Rollins at Hell in a Cell, were widely praised. However, other decisions, such as the handling of certain championship reigns, were met with criticism. Improving the consistency and long-term planning of booking decisions would help to build more compelling and satisfying storylines.
Despite its flaws, Raw in 2022 provided plenty of entertainment and memorable moments. The strong storylines, standout matches, and the emergence of new stars were all positive developments. With some improvements in consistency and booking, Raw has the potential to become even better in the future. For its strengths and weaknesses, I'd give Raw Monday Night 2022 a solid B+. It had moments of brilliance, but also areas where it could improve.
So there you have it, folks! A comprehensive look back at Raw Monday Night 2022. What were your favorite moments? Let us know in the comments below!