As Bash in Berlin draws closer, WWE Raw on August 19th continued to hype up the key matchups for the upcoming premium live event.
Randy Orton made a significant impact by defeating Ludwig Kaiser, further intensifying his one-on-one feud with Gunther. Meanwhile, Sheamus delivered an unforgettable performance in a gritty and personal showdown against Pete Dunne, emerging victorious.
Jey Uso stepped up by declaring his challenge for the Intercontinental Championship, aiming to secure his first singles title against Bron Breakker.
In a competitive contest, Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn successfully defended their WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship against formidable challengers Damage CTRL and the Pure Fusion Collective.
Though this week on Raw may not have been the most thrilling, several standout moments hinted at a promising future for WWE.
Randy Orton as the Perfect Challenger for Gunther
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Randy Orton once again bested Gunther, putting The Ring General on the defensive as they approach Bash in Berlin on August 31. This is a rare sight for the Austrian champion, who is being pushed to prove his worth while Orton is establishing himself as a genuine threat.
Orton’s role is crucial in making this rivalry compelling; if fans believe he could actually win, it will elevate the significance of Gunther’s eventual victory. This feud underscores why Gunther needed a veteran rival like Orton to match his level and prove his mettle.
Sheamus Quietly Assembling a Wrestler of the Year Case
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While Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, Gunther, and Sami Zayn are often discussed as contenders for Wrestler of the Year, Sheamus has been quietly making a strong case with his performances on Raw.
His 2024 has been marked by a series of high-caliber matches, including bouts against Ilja Dragunov, Drew McIntyre, and Pete Dunne, among others. Despite his impressive track record, Sheamus has yet to receive the widespread recognition he deserves. Another high-profile match with Gunther or a significant rivalry could further solidify his standing.
The Case for Jey Uso and Sami Zayn Reuniting
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Jey Uso may be positioned as a challenger for Bron Breakker, but his current storyline isn’t making waves. To reinvigorate his popularity, a reunion with Sami Zayn seems like a natural and impactful move.
As a tag team, Uso and Zayn have proven their chemistry and could make a strong run for the World Tag Team Championships. Reuniting could also pave the way for the return of Jimmy Uso and a potential reunion with Roman Reigns, restoring Jey’s prominence and setting up future singles pursuits.
WWE Should Fully Commit to Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn
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To elevate new stars, it’s crucial to demonstrate their ability to compete with established names. Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn have been proving themselves as they continue to defend the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship successfully.
Initially seen as a temporary title reign, their ongoing defenses have bolstered their credibility. To cement their status, they must continue to defend the titles successfully, potentially against top competitors like Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill. A strong end to the year could make their eventual defeat all the more impactful.
The Judgment Day Finds New Strength Without Ripley and Priest
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The Judgment Day had long depended on Rhea Ripley and Damian Priest, but recent events have shifted the focus. Finn Bálor and Liv Morgan led a compelling assault that showcased the group’s potential to stand out without their former leaders.
While Bálor and Morgan are still building their reputations, this shift in dynamics has given Dominik Mysterio, JD McDonagh, and Carlito a chance to shine alongside them. Maintaining this momentum and further developing the trio’s credibility will be essential for The Judgment Day’s future success.
