Obviously booking heel Roman in the still somewhat early stages is really interesting to see. Regardless of what anybody says, the character in real life has been a hit, so will be good to see how you match or do better than that. Heyman having some concerns due to Strowman/Reigns’ history makes sense, but I liked Reigns just swatting them away. Didn’t mind the segment between Strowman and Jeff to add some chemistry to their team, whilst also make it clear they have their own ambitions. The Roman/Jey interaction tonight was good as well and has honestly been a highlight over the past month or so. Assuming this will end up similar to in real life with the entire Bloodline getting together, but at this point, I’m just enjoying the journey. Tag main event worked well to give Strowman a big win, although I’m honestly more interested in Jey’s reaction to being left high and dry. Will be really interesting.
After the epic hot dog eating contest, and The Dirty Dawgz refusing to eat and starting an argument, this match made sense. I don’t mind Ziggler and Roode winning here to probably earn a future title shot. Rose being knocked out obviously adds to the drama, especially considering her and Otis’ history with Ziggler. Solid stuff. Also LOL at how quickly Otis accepted eating that hot dog himself later on in the evening. Tucker potentially having some issues for what I think is the first time could add an interesting dynamic to things. All ended well here, but can’t help but think there’s more to this.
I like The New Day getting an in ring segment to talk about Big E splitting. Makes it feel like a big deal, which it should considering all they’ve done and how long they’ve been together for. Intrigued to see who you put them against for the send off.
Sami Zayn trying to get back together with Cesaro and Nakamura has been entertaining over the past few weeks. Them finally telling them to go away basically is good, and Sami’s this isn’t overline certainly makes me wonder what’s next. Zayn/Gargano IC Title match was obviously really good. I was caught off guard by Sheamus interfering initially, but makes sense due to his alignment with Cesaro and Nakamura previously. Cesaro and Nak’ being annoyed at Sheamus as well wasn’t expected, but the idea of Sheamus and Sami arguing over them (and the IC Title), only for them to leave is pretty funny.
Nothing women’s match really. I guess solid enough win for Team B.A.D, but the main job here was to set the scene for Nikki’s return. Solid progression with that angle here and the match next week between Nikki and Carmella should be interesting. I’m honestly not sure where Alexa stands with all of this at this point, and I like that I’m unsure where the angle will go.
Obviously Sasha was always going over Mickie to keep her momentum heading into her title shot in nine days. Sasha and Bayley’s back and forth was solid enough, touching on their history, although I could have down without the attack from the Southern Belle’s. Don’t think this angle needs all that noise at this point, although wouldn’t surprise if this was used to book a six woman tag next week.
Ember Moon vignettes get a thumbs up from me if it means she’ll get a proper run on the main roster in here.
Eh, I’m just not big at Jerry Lawler getting involved in angles and potentially getting physical at this point. I get the play on the king thing, and Corbin and the royal family (who I really enjoy together) get some heat from it, but just doesn’t hit the mark for me. I guess the positive is with Elias and Morrison getting involved, at least it does something for some additional people on the current roster.
Pretty solid show here, most segments seem to be doing their job. Nothing groundbreaking on this episode, but nothing out of line either. Nice job, and considering how often you post shows, putting a little note in here about bragging for being up to date.