Opening Segment:
CM Punk opens the show talking about what Jericho said a week ago. He talks about his father having an alcohol problem, but he was able to overcome it. Punk continues to talk about how people can change and get through anything to become anything. He says he will still loves his father and is proud of him. He talks about beating Jericho at WrestleMania. Chris Jericho appears on the screen, apologizing about what he said. He states he will never talk about Punk's dad again, but will talk about his sister. He says Punk's sister is a drug addict and that Punk will follow suit by doing drugs or drinking alcohol. Punk looks pissed, says he will beat the s*it out of him at WrestleMania because that is what he is full of.
What I Liked:
Thankfully, they give this the first segment on Raw and not buried between segments. I enjoyed what Punk said, going full face but really striking the important points of his speech. This was a different Punk than what he have seen since July. I enjoy being able to see his vulnerable side, and thank Jericho for doing that. Jericho is able to make the crowd love or hate him in the snap of a finger. His music plays and people cheer, but he talks and people boo. This feud needed a personal touch, and I like how they are going about this. It is different. Next week, Jericho needs to have a member of Punk's family. That would be the biggest intriguing angle for me the go home show before WrestleMania.
What I Disliked:
The fact that Jericho was on screen and not in the arena. I felt like he should have came out and apologized, have Punk chase him away, and play the cat and mouse game. This would make us anticipate Punk striking and really beating down a meticulous Jericho.
Grade: A-
Kane def. The Big Show:
What I Liked:
The continued push of Rhodes and Show. It may not be my dream matchup, but I am kept entertained. Rhodes handcuffing and attacking Show after was wonderful. Aggression was put on display and was much needed from Rhodes. He is a pretty boy heel, but needs to evolve into a more physical and aggressive wrestler, especially with Show as his opponent.
What I Disliked:
Kane winning so easy. What is the point of this? Show loses somewhat quick, thanks to an interference. I wanted more time for the big men to brawl with one another, weakening the other. I feel a tag team match on Raw next week between Orton/Show vs. Kane/Rhodes. It needs to happen, to see who has the upper hand. It also frees up a segment for other feuds to get more time to either talk or progress the story somehow.
Grade: C+
