Tonight’s episode of WWE Raw airs live from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, marking the beginning of a critical four-week build to the Clash in Paris event scheduled for August 31. The show is expected to focus heavily on Seth Rollins and his controversial Money in the Bank cash-in, which has become one of the biggest talking points following SummerSlam.
Seth Rollins to Address His Clever Money in the Bank Strategy
Seth Rollins shocked WWE fans at SummerSlam when he faked a knee injury, using crutches as a ruse to deceive his rival CM Punk before cashing in his Money in the Bank contract to win the World Heavyweight Championship. Rollins is anticipated to make an appearance on tonight’s Raw to boast about his successful plan and share insights into how he pulled off what many are calling the “ruse of the century.” This development positions him as a cunning and strategic player in WWE’s current landscape.
The Growing Power of Rollins’ Allies and Incoming Challenges
Rollins is now backed by a formidable alliance including Paul Heyman, Bron Breakker, and Bronson Reed, which has increased their influence on Raw substantially. However, this power bloc faces stiff opposition as several top babyfaces such as CM Punk, Roman Reigns, and Jey Uso prepare to confront Rollins and his group. Additionally, SmackDown star LA Knight, who previously defeated Rollins before his fake injury stunt, poses a significant threat claiming he deserves a shot at the title.
Potential Impact of Brock Lesnar’s WWE Return
The recent return of Brock Lesnar to WWE adds another unpredictable element to the ongoing storylines. Lesnar, with his storied history alongside Paul Heyman, may play a crucial role once he completes his confrontation with John Cena. Fans are left wondering if Lesnar’s involvement will shift the balance of power or intensify the rivalry surrounding Rollins and his faction.
What to Expect for Other Key Matches and Storylines on Raw
In addition to the main title story, the show will also feature the third match between Sheamus and Rusev after their previous contests ended in a split decision. Rusev’s current lack of fan engagement raises questions about whether he can change his momentum tonight and secure a win over the Celtic Warrior.
Stephanie Vaquer is set as the next contender for Women’s World Champion Naomi at Clash in Paris. Whether she will confront Naomi on the show or proceed cautiously remains to be seen. Meanwhile, Women’s Intercontinental Champion Becky Lynch is dealing with the fallout from Bayley’s accidental involvement in Lyra Valkyria’s loss at SummerSlam, potentially opening the door for new challengers like Asuka or WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella.
Injuries, Rivalries, and Questions Around WWE’s Future
There are concerns about GUNTHER’s condition after CM Punk caused a nose injury at SummerSlam, with speculation on whether he may require surgery or time off. On a lighter note, multiple wrestlers are reportedly adopting the El Grande Americano gimmick, and the number may increase by the end of the night.
New WWE women’s tag team champions Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss could be expected to make consistent appearances on Raw, but their plans remain unclear. Questions also loom over Karrion Kross’s future after his SummerSlam defeat by Sami Zayn, who claimed Kross was untrustworthy. Rhea Ripley continues to chase a first victory over IYO SKY as she seeks another shot at the women’s world title.
Additionally, AJ Styles may be re-evaluating his pursuit of the Intercontinental Championship after being bested by Dominik Mysterio, who impressed by channeling Eddie Guerrero’s spirit in his win. On the babyface front, Grayson Waller’s attempt to befriend New Day ended in a harsh beatdown by Sheamus last week, leaving fans eager to see which challenger will take him down next.
Speculation also surrounds Penta’s creative direction in WWE and the whereabouts of Omos, as fans await updates and resolutions in these areas.
Significance and Outlook for WWE Raw’s Upcoming Weeks
With the momentum generated by Seth Rollins’s controversial Money in the Bank cash-in and the growing tensions among WWE’s top talent, Raw is poised for a tense and unpredictable period leading into Clash in Paris. The alliances and rivalries unfolding tonight are likely to have lasting effects, shaping the direction of championship races and personal vendettas. Fans should expect intense confrontations, shifting allegiances, and surprising developments as WWE builds toward its next major event.
