Santino Marella Defeats Heath Slater
What I Liked:
When Heath Slater came out, the crowd popped. I was shocked to hear how loud that actually was for someone like Slater. The fans are interested in him, interested in his gimmick, and really have given this guy a second chance. The match was basically a joke for Santino to regain his "cobra." Aksana came out and tried to distract him, but he struck Slater and picked up the victory. Slater did get a bit of offense in, but layed down for Santino in the long run.
What I Disliked:
Once again, Santino is feuding more with a Diva (or announcer previously) than an actual wrestler. If he loses the United States Championship, shouldn't he be feuding with the guy who took it and not his sock puppet over a Diva? I feel like this is what the mid card picture is becoming, a comedy act for kids to enjoy. In reality, you do not need a championship belt to get Santino over. He has constantly been a guy who can be a comedy relief. Get rid of this feud and let him go back to backstage segments that give us a quick break in real action.
Grade: D
Brodus Clay and Sin Cara Defeats Damien Sandow and Cody Rhodes
What I Liked:
I was interested to see this tag team match because it is two decent mid card feuds taking center stage on Monday Night Raw. Brodus and Damien Sandow seemed to end last week, but they ressurect it for this week. I felt like the feud between Cody and Sin Cara was more of the story teller. The action was consistent, with Sandow showing his aggressive side. He utilizes the small parts and make them much larger, including simple knees to the chest. He executes it in a way where it looks more painful than it should. Sin Cara hits a diving move to the outside to knock out Sandow. This allowed Brodus to pick up the win against Cody.
What I Disliked:
Where do we go from here? Brodus and Damien have a little bit of steam, Cody and Sin are reeling already, and there is no ultimate outcome from both of them. Why wouldn't you put these four talents in something that could have a greater outcome? I could easily see Cara leading a new cruiserweight division, Damien in a US or IC Title hunt, Cody in the same position as Sandow, and Brodus being a comedy act. I like what they are doing, for now, but there is no long term plans for these guys when there should be.
Grade: C
