The Main Events
Paul Heyman and CM Punk got extremely personal in the ring. Punk talked about how Heyman saved him from being fired, being best friends, and the respect they have for one another. Punk gets in the face of Heyman asking him if he sent Lesnar. Heyman rebuttals with a strong disagreement and they end up hugging. It seems like Punk and Heyman will continue to be connected with one another. Curtis Axel got involved when Punk was being attacked by Prime Time Players after his match with Darren Young. I hated that Punk did not completely squash Young. 8 minutes later, he struggles, fights back, and finally wins? We are forced to believe he can beat Lesnar? He gets bailed out by Axel and it seems like WWE wants to build more than one piece to the puzzle. I think it makes complete sense. What doesn't make complete sense is Axel as IC Champion. I can bet we don't see a really thought out and good feud for him (for the title) in a while. Axel is a critical part in the Heyman/Punk/Lesnar storyline. When Lesnar is not there, Punk needs another wrestle to focus his attention on.
Grade: B+
Daniel Bryan defeated Randy Orton in a Street Fight. Daniel Bryan and Orton put on one hell of a match to kick off Raw and to end it. The beginning of the night was called off because referees could not keep control between the two men. I love the fact that Randy Orton tapped out. He is always going to be viewed as a main event guy, no doubt. Daniel Bryan is smaller, not as strong, but is smarter. WWE needs to book him like that. This ending was fantastic because Daniel Bryan can brag and can boast about his victory, while Orton can slowly turn on the fans and Bryan. This is a smart and logical way to end the show. Bryan deserved to end the night.
Grade: A-
Raw Grade: C+
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