Monday Night RAW delivered a mix of thrilling wrestling moments and notable disappointments on the way to WWE Clash in Paris. The WWE RAW Best and Worst Highlights offer insight into where the show succeeded in captivating the audience and where it stumbled, particularly with the main event setup and women’s division developments.
Strong Wrestling Performances Throughout the Night
Last night’s RAW showcased a consistent level of in-ring quality that energized the crowd from start to finish. The opening tag team match featuring Dominik Mysterio and El Grande Americano (Ludwig Kaiser) against AJ Styles and Dragon Lee set a lively pace. The highly physical contests between Sami Zayn vs. Rusev and Roxanne Perez vs. <a href="https://cynicaltimes.org/tag/iyo–sky/”>IYO SKY further maintained momentum, accompanied by the main event tag featuring CM Punk & LA Knight against Bron Breakker & Bronson Reed.
Despite some matches ending with questionable finishes, the overall wrestling was crisp and engaging. Matches were allotted adequate time that allowed fans to fully engage with the action rather than feeling rushed or superficial. This focus on wrestling quality stood out as one of the evening’s most reliable strengths, showcasing why the WWE RAW Best and Worst Highlights must acknowledge the solid in-ring efforts.
Maxxine Dupri’s Struggles in the Spotlight
Maxxine Dupri’s performance raised concerns about her readiness for the role WWE has cast her in at this stage of her career. Neither her in-ring abilities nor her character work made a compelling impression. This was evident even outside of the matches, where her presence as a manager and on-screen personality lacked depth.
While the storyline implies that she is intentionally portrayed as inexperienced — especially evident in her quick squash loss to Becky Lynch — fans are showing signs of frustration. Even for a squash intended to highlight Lynch, Dupri’s segment failed to land as effectively as it aimed to. Ultimately, it did not resonate with the audience as the moment was supposed to serve a clear narrative purpose but fell short.
Bayley’s Layered and Dark Character Development
One of the night’s most compelling moments came from Bayley during a backstage vignette that deeply explored her personal struggles. She openly reflected on how her role as a “role model” has cost her championships and, more painfully, meaningful friendships. The serious tone and emotional weight of her words hinted at a potential heel turn.
Bayley’s expressive delivery and subtle cues created an authentic and relatable portrayal of internal conflict, connecting with audiences on psychological and emotional levels. Lyra Valkyria, who appeared in an interview segment afterward, expressed sympathy yet made clear that Bayley faces her battle alone.
This segment’s real-world resonance linked to younger generations’ struggles with empathy and the quest for validation, all woven skillfully into wrestling storytelling. Combined with Bayley’s ongoing activity on social media platforms like X, this development promises significant character evolution in the near future.
Exciting Opening Segment Sets the Tone
The kickoff to RAW explored the fraught relationship between LA Knight and CM Punk, focused on their mutual ambitions for the World Heavyweight Championship and grudges against Seth Rollins. Their clashing personalities intensified the tension, suggesting potential further conflict, especially if Roman Reigns had been present.
Paul Heyman’s entrance alongside Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker added intrigue as they issued and accepted a main event tag team challenge. The segment blended serious and lighthearted moments, including Bron Breakker’s quip about Punk’s age, and featured entertaining character work from Reed’s “Shoelafala” side and Heyman’s usual charisma. This well-executed opening energized the live crowd, establishing momentum for the evening.
Complications Arise as Jey Uso Joins the World Heavyweight Title Match
The main event concluded with a disqualification finish before Jey Uso appeared to fend off Seth Rollins and allies, coming to the aid of LA Knight and CM Punk. Following this, Adam Pearce officially added Uso to the already announced Fatal Four-Way World Heavyweight Championship match for Clash in Paris.
This addition raises concerns about overcrowding the storyline, as the dynamic between Knight and Punk—characterized by conflicting egos and ambitions—is intriguing on its own. Uso’s traditional role as a peacemaker, similar to Sami Zayn, clashes with the current complex tension between Knight and Punk. It appears his presence may dilute the narrative focus.
Moreover, with Roman Reigns reportedly expected to join the match as well, WWE risks turning what had been a layered, dramatic conflict into a confusing cluster of multiple storylines. Such overcrowding could undermine the match’s impact, leaving less time to explore and develop each character and rivalry adequately ahead of the Paris event.
Undercard Continues to Offer Engaging Storylines and Matches
The undercard featured compelling angles that kept fans invested, particularly the ongoing saga involving El Grande Americano, which remains divisive but entertaining. Dominik Mysterio continues to refresh his character through inventive and cunning tactics. Their recent match was well-timed and well-received by the audience, maintaining anticipation for their upcoming Intercontinental Championship rematch featuring AJ Styles.
The intense battle between Sami Zayn and Rusev was abruptly interrupted by Solo Sikoa and the MFT faction, hinting at Zayn’s likely move to SmackDown. This potentially repositions him to better showcase his talents and star power on the blue brand. The interruption set up another physical confrontation between Rusev and Sheamus, which is expected to culminate in a featured match at Clash in Paris, aiming to bring their rivalry to a conclusion.
Last-Minute Cancellation of World Women’s Championship Match
A highly anticipated World Women’s Championship match between IYO SKY and Roxanne Perez was canceled unexpectedly when Naomi was not medically cleared to compete. This upset fans who were eager to see SKY pursue the championship and set up a dream matchup against Stephanie Vaquer at the upcoming Paris event.
If the match does not take place next week, the likely scenario involves Naomi facing Vaquer at Clash in Paris, with Vaquer potentially winning the title and Naomi acting as a transitional champion. Nonetheless, the cancellation is a significant blow in terms of booking credibility, especially given the match’s heavy promotion in advance.
IYO SKY and Kabuki Warriors Drama Builds Layers in Women’s Division
Though denied a title shot, IYO SKY remained central to a captivating storyline involving the Kabuki Warriors. This plot deepens as Rhea Ripley remains closely linked with SKY, creating tension within the group. Speculation arises over whether the Kabuki Warriors might fracture or if Ripley and SKY will unite against them if the faction breaks apart.
Kairi Sane’s position as a potential mediator adds complexity, while Asuka’s apparent desire to relaunch Damage CTRL under her leadership adds another layer of intrigue. These shifting alliances and evolving rivalries promise dynamic possibilities for the already stacked RAW women’s division as it heads into future events.
