The September 29 episode of WWE Monday Night RAW at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina delivered intense moments that are shaping the road to WWE’s 2025 Crown Jewel event in Perth, Australia. Central to the night was the highly anticipated Roman Reigns Bloodline return, marked by Reigns’ shocking comeback and the complex dynamics resurfacing within the Bloodline faction.
Rising Tension and Shifting Alliances Among WWE Women’s Teams
The episode opened with escalating conflict between Asuka and Kairi Sane, who sought to bring Iyo Sky back into their fold, reflecting a strained alliance after last week’s betrayal. A video segment featured Asuka stressing the importance of family and the role she played in Sky’s career development, inviting her to rejoin their team. However, Iyo Sky chose loyalty to Rhea Ripley, only to endure an attack with poison mist that left her visibly shaken throughout the night. This turmoil culminated in a tag team match being set for Crown Jewel, pitting Ripley and Sky against Asuka and Sane—a fresh storyline twist offering a non-title highlight at the premium live event.
Dominik Mysterio Retains Intercontinental Title Through Cunning Tactics
In a gripping Intercontinental Championship bout, Dominik Mysterio defended his title against Rusev with a performance fuelled by calculated deception. Despite Rusev’s role as the crowd favorite, Mysterio’s underhanded strategies, reminiscent of Eddie Guerrero’s infamous “lie, cheat, and steal” approach, earned the audience’s enthusiastic backing. Mysterio’s antics, including attempts to prematurely exit the match, blaming Rusev for illegal strikes, and delivering a low blow to secure victory, elevated his status as a rising star and reinforced his hold on the championship.
LA Knight Gains Momentum as a Top Contender for the World Heavyweight Championship
LA Knight continued his upward trajectory toward a World Heavyweight Title opportunity with a compelling showing against Kofi Kingston. Earlier backstage, a heated exchange unfolded with The New Day, where Kingston taunted Knight for never having held a championship. Their ensuing match showcased strong in-ring action, with Knight securing the win through a well-executed finish. This victory maintains Knight’s momentum as he positions himself amid the top contenders, especially with Seth Rollins occupied preparing for his Crown Jewel bout against champion Cody Rhodes.
Roman Reigns Returns, Bloodline Reunites—but Unease Remains
The night culminated in a captivating tornado tag team match featuring The Usos against The Vision, setting the stage for a dramatic Bloodline reunion. Roman Reigns made an unexpected return after being sidelined by Bronson Reed, decisively eliminating Reed and Bron Breakker to assist The Usos to victory. Following the match, Reigns and Jey Uso shared an emotional embrace, signaling a rekindling of their alliance and a renewed commitment to the original Bloodline vision centered on vengeance and dominance.
However, tension simmered beneath the surface as Jimmy Uso appeared distant and skeptical of the renewed connection between Reigns and Jey. His reluctance highlighted potential fractures within the group, foreshadowing future conflicts despite the apparent unity displayed. This uneasy reunion added a layer of complexity to the faction’s storyline, leaving fans anxious about the Bloodline’s direction going forward.
The developments on RAW emphasize the importance of the Roman Reigns Bloodline return as a turning point that could redefine the power structure within WWE. With Crown Jewel approaching, these evolving alliances and rivalries are likely to have significant implications for the pay-per-view’s matchups and ongoing narratives.
