Raw goes hard before Money in the Bank! The Big Dog and the Modern Day Maharaja will have a match BEFORE their MITB match! Will Mahal use this opportunity to take Roman Reigns out before the PPV? Plus, two Fatal 4 Ways, featuring all of Raw’s MITB match representatives! That is, if Natalya and Alexa Bliss can compete.

All images courtesy of the WWE’s official Twitter

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Women’s Fatal 4 Way: Ember Moon VS Sasha Banks VS Natalya VS Alexa Bliss; Natalya wins.
• Breezango VS Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre; Ziggler & McIntyre win.
• Roman Reigns VS Jinder Mahal Sunil Singh; Roman wins.
• The B Team VS Heath Slater & Rhyno; The B Team wins.
• Bayley VS Ruby Riott w/ The Riott Squad; Ruby wins.
• Curt Hawkins VS No Way Jose; Jose wins.
• Men’s Fatal 4 Way: Braun Strowman VS Finn Balor VS Kevin Owens VS Bobby Roode; Strowman wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Raw opens with ladders!

Oh, IT'S #MITB SEASON ALRIGHT…

We're LIVE on #RAW on @USA_Network! pic.twitter.com/3vpR7aUPAu

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

Little Rock has all eight superstars competing this Sunday in their respective Men’s and Women’s Money in the Bank matches. The Monster Among Men, the GLORIOUS One, the Extraordinary Man, the Prizefighter, as well as the Goddess, War Goddess, Queen of Harts and Boss all wait as Raw GM Kurt Angle heads to the ring!

Angle reminds us that MITB is Sunday, on the WWE Network. For the first time ever, the matches will be co-branded 4v4. It is one of the most grueling matches in WWE history, testing you mentally, physically and emotionally, but with an amazing reward. The winners can cash-in anywhere at anytime for a title match. But then CONSTABLE Baron Corbin, sporting a new look, arrives.

#ConstableCorbin IS ON THE SCENE, and he's here to ensure that the show runs smoothly… #RAW @BaronCorbinWWE pic.twitter.com/IfY035dMmD

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

The Lone Wolf, as appointed by Stephanie McMahon, lets us know that as Stephanie’s representative, he just wants to ensure Raw runs smoothly tonight. As the GM, Angle would love for those contracts to come to Raw. And if they don’t, Stephanie will be disappointed. We don’t want to disappoint Stephanie now, do we? Alexa Bliss says that despite her injury, she will fight through the pain and win. Sasha Banks speaks up, wanting to know what hurts. Alexa’s shoulder…? But then, weren’t you limping? Alexa can hurt in multiple places! Ember Moon says it won’t matter, Alexa will be real sore after losing.

Sasha and Ember argue, but Angle wants them to calm down. He brings up that Natalya can compete, but is she sure she can be in a ladder match? Natty says she is, because she is ready to win a shot against her friend and soon-to-be Raw WOmen’s Champion, Ronda Rousey. Sasha says Natty’s right, Ronda can win. But Sasha’s gonna be Ms. MITB. Kevin Owens speaks up, saying Angle is right about these ladders. But this isn’t fair, Strowman is so tall! Is the briefcase going to be up higher for Strowman’s sake? Roode asks if Kevin wants that briefcase lowered for his sake. Yes that’s a great idea!

Angle says the briefcases are all the same height for everyone. Kevin complains, then kisses up to Corbin. Strowman wants to quit this squabbling and do something about Kevin! Kevin wants to make Stephanie proud but he’s being threatened. Strowman doesn’t make threats, he makes promises. Strowman vows to shut Kevin up, climb up and take the contract to cash-in on Lesnar! The men start arguing, so Alexa SHRIEKS to stop them all. “Y’all need to calm down.” THis is like the Real Housewives of WWE. Besides, Alexa is confident she and her Mixed Match Challenge partner will win.

How cute, Alexa. But Sasha feels her MMC partner will win. Finn thanks Sasha for that vote of confidence, and returns the favor. They all argue again, and now Strowman ROARS, “ENOUGH!” Sunday, someone will #GetTheseHands! The Monster Among Men has spoken, but will even he be able to win when there are a total of eight top tier superstars in the ladder matches?

Women’s Fatal 4 Way: Ember Moon VS Sasha Banks VS Natalya VS Alexa Bliss!

The Queen of Harts has recovered from her leg injury last week, and Lil’ Ms. Bliss has “recovered” from hers, but will those be points to exploit for the Boss and Prophecy of Flame?

The action is underway on #RAW…

WHO YA GOT in this #Fatal4Way: @SashaBanksWWE @WWEEmberMoon @NatbyNature or @AlexaBliss_WWE? pic.twitter.com/qfpMbjK9l1

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

The bell rings and all four women look up to the prize in the sky. Sasha taunts Alexa about the “bad leg”, then they all close in. Alexa kicks Natty then throws Sasha into Ember. Alexa SLAPS Ember, then throws Natty out. The fans cheer for the sassy Five Foot Fury, but Ember shoves her away. Alexa crossbodies, but Ember catches her for the Fall Away Slam! Ember kips up, then glares at Alexa. Alexa runs away, but bumps into Sasha. She’s cornered, so she runs away, only to run into Natty! Natty throws Alexa into barriers by her hair! Natty joins Ember and Sasha, and the three circle around.

They approach, Ember headlocks but Natty powers out. Ember makes it through the double hip toss to dropkick Natty! She dodges Sasha, crucifix pin, ONE. Sasha returns it, ONE, but then takedown to jackknife. ONE, and so Sasha wheelbarrows. Natty holds her up, but Sasha dropkicks Ember away to roll Natty. TWO, to Natty’s cover, TWO. Natty runs Ember over with a clothesline! Fans fire up for the Queen of Harts as she circles with Sasha. Sasha goes after the bad leg, then snapmares Natty into a low Meteora. Cover, TWO, but she’s right back on Natty with an arm wrench. Natty rolls and flips to wrench Sasha down. Fans rally while Sasha endures. Sasha gets up and pushes Natty back. She breaks free, but misses Natty to end up in the rebound.

Sasha breaks out and catches the kick to give the knee, only for Natty to get a takedown! Natty wants the Sharpshooter but Sasha won’t let her. Sasha fights Natty but Natty keeps going, only for Sasha to shove her all the way out. Ember returns, roll-up, TWO. Ember swings but reverses the whip, Sasha goes up but Ember throws her off. Sasha hits back from the apron, then climbs up, to DIVE onto Natty! But then Ember builds speed to DIVE!

SHENOM.#RAW #Fatal4Way @WWEEmberMoon pic.twitter.com/Y1Rv81I4lV

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

Ember barrels right into Sasha and into barriers! She drags Sasha up and into the ring, but Alexa runs in for that killer right! Alexa covers Sasha, TWO! The Fatal 4 Way is fast and furious while we go to break.

Raw returns and Natty endures a leg stretch from Alexa. Ember and Sasha stir on the outside while Alexa shrieks for Natty to quit. Natty endures while Ember drags herself up. Natty fights Alexa off, but then a dragon screw brings her back down. Ember returns but runs into another stiff right from the sassy Goddess. Alexa goes after the leg again, dropping elbows and yanking at it. Natty kicks her again, but Alexa makes her pay for it. Alexa kicks her leg out, then puts the leg on the rope to wrench it. Natty holds the ropes but Alexa drags her off to go back to the stretch. Natty rolls her off, cover, TWO. Alexa slips out of the scoop to kick out the leg! But Sasha returns to rally with lariats! Sasha blocks the kick to give the knee!

Sasha runs into the corner but is put on the apron. Alexa goes to hit Sasha down but Sasha knees her away, to then hit a swinging Meteora! Cover, TWO! One former Raw Women’s Champion is surprised by the other, but then Ember crossbodies in on them both! Ember kicks away on Sasha, then runs into the corner. Sasha turns things around but Ember counters, tornado snap suplex! Cover, but Alexa breaks it. Ember glares at Alexa and powers her into a corner for shoulders. Alexa kicks Ember away, sunset flip powerbomb, but Meteora from Sasha! TWO, and all the women are down as we go picture in picture. Alexa, Sasha and Ember all catch their breath on the mat while Natty is somewhere outside. Sasha rolls after Alexa as she rolls away. Ember comes over and it’s a triple brawl as we return to single picture.

Ember and Sasha work together to put Alexa up top. They climb up together, but then Natty returns! It’s a double powerbomb! Alexa slips out and Natty backs off with her bad leg. Alexa stands, and Twisted Bliss into knees! They’re all down again while we go to break.

Raw returns again, and Alexa dodges Ssaha to give her a backbreaker. Cover, TWO, and Alexa grows frustrated. She drags Sasha up but Ssaha hits the backstabber! Into Bank Statement crossface! Alexa flails, endures, but Natty breaks it up with a stomp! Natty hits a 2-for-1 on the dropkick, but that leg is slowing her down. She drags Alexa up and out, to then hobble over to Sasha. Natty wants the Sharpshooter, and gets it! Sasha endures, but Ember SUPERKICKS Natty in the back! The hold breaks and Sasha rolls away, then Ember puts Natty in a corner. Ember fires up, runs in, and hits the handspring elbow. She puts Natty down, then climbs up. Natty gets up, ECLIPSE!!

Cover, but Alexa throws Ember only for Ember to throw her. Alexa drags her out and the goddesses of Raw brawl. Alexa puts Ember into steps! Cover on Natty, Sasha breaks it! Sasha saves the match, and fans know “This is Awesome!” The Boss stands while Natty writhes and Alexa stirs. Alexa swings but misses, only to elbow Sasha back. Sasha wants another backstabber but Alexa hotshots her thne throws her out! Natty rolls Alexa, into Sharpshooter! Alexa shrieks, and taps! Natty wins!

Winner: Natalya, by submission

The former SmackDown Women’s Champion wins, because it’s about the timing and the toughness. Natty shows she can do both, but can she do it when ladders and four other women are involved?

The SHARPSHOOTER prevails as @NatbyNature makes @AlexaBliss_WWE tap out to build all-important momentum heading into #MITB! #RAW #Fatal4Way pic.twitter.com/LjPVf3Y3po

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

Kevin Owens confronts Finn Balor.

He offers olives. Like, an olive branch. What does he want? Kevin knows the Fatal 4 Way got chaotic for the women, but says the men need a plan. Or is Finn still upset about last week? Kevin can’t let that happen again this week. They’re both competitors, but they’r both former Universal Champions. And neither of them got a proper rematch. What if Strowman wins? What if Strowman succeeds? He could be holding that title, their title, forever. Finn can’t beat Strowman and Kevin would need a lot of effort to. What’s his point? They need to work together, as well as Roode, to eliminate Strowman. Tonight can be every man against monster. Kevin leaves Finn to think on that. Will Finn accept this alliance?

Breezango VS Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre!

🎶🎶 Super good-looking, every hair in place… 🎶🎶@MmmGorgeous & @WWEFandango are in the house! #RAW pic.twitter.com/FmrRBfy4i9

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) June 12, 2018

The Fashion Police are in Little Rock, but the Show-Off and Scottish Stud are planning to make them pay for the early elimination in last week’s Tag Team Battle Royal.

Their names are @DMcIntyreWWE & @HEELZiggler, and they're about to do some DAMAGE on #RAW… pic.twitter.com/uOSX6YW5ie

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

McIntyre glares daggers into Breezango, but it’s Ziggler who starts, and he starts fast on Prince Pretty. They’ve had issue in the past, but now it’s even more aggressive as Ziggler grinds his boot on Breeze’s face. Ziggler then grinds Breeze’s face into the ropes. Ziggler and Breeze brawl, but Ziggler kicks low and drops the elbow. Cover, TWO, but Ziggler keeps Breeze away from Fandango. McIntyre tags in and stomps away on Breeze. McIntyre rips Breeze’s shirt off to chop his bare chest! He doesn’t stop as he stomps on Breeze more. Tag to Ziggler, then another chop. McIntyre wants Ziggler to finish this, and Ziggler taunts Fandango as he drags Breeze back up. The referee keeps Fandango back, and Ziggler toys with Breeze. Breeze enziguris Ziggler! Both men are down, hot tags!

Fandango runs out and chops, but McIntyre puts him in a corner. McIntyre misses and Fandango chops more. Fandango ends up on the apron but climbs up. Ziggler distracts and McIntyre trips him up. Breeze leaps but is caught and gut wrenched into a powerbomb ONTO Fandango! McIntyre tags Ziggler, and they finish it with a SUPERKICK to Breeze. Then for Fandango, the Claymore ZigZag!! Cover, Ziggler & McIntyre win!

Winners: Ziggler & McIntyre, Ziggler pinning

The “D&D Train” is rolling on, and it doesn’t look like anyone can stop them. Will Ziggler & McIntyre take the show by force, and then take the titles the same way?

Ziggler & McIntyre speak.

“Last week, there was a tag team battle royal and that was nothing more than a fluke.” They’re over it, so get over it. This is proof, Exhibit A & B, the Fashion Police. Some question their guts, their skills, their alliance. “Bad move!” This isn’t just hype, so every tag team on Raw, even the champions, “take a good look! Because the show starts and ends right here! This is your future.” Ziggler & McIntyre hold this show in their hands, and vow to SAVE it by taking out every other team.

Backstage interview with Roman Reigns.

The Big Dog faces Jinder Mahal now, but will also face him again at MITB. Is he surprised? No, because Mahal is an idiot. The fact Roman isn’t in the MITB ladder match is because of Mahal. Roman will not be able to cash in on Lesnar and take back what is “legitimately” his. Roman makes this clear: everything coming is not free, Mahal earned this whooping. He’s giving Mahal his receipt, “paid in full.” Win or lose, will either man be fit to compete again at MITB this Sunday?

Roman Reigns VS Jinder Mahal!

When a grudge is this personal, why wait another week? MITB comes a bit early, but will it be a one-time-only?

The #ModernDayMaharaja is aiming to TAME #TheBigDog @WWERomanReigns RIGHT NOW on #RAW! pic.twitter.com/1EzzVp9jQe

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

Before the match, Mahal speaks while Little Rock boos. “I challenged Roman Reigns to a match tonight to prove a point: He’s not nearly as unstoppable as he thinks.” Roman may be a Grand Slam Champion that’s main-evented Wrestlemania, “but the winds are changing.” Mahal feels it, and sees what we don’t. At MITB, Mahal envisions Roman suffering, unable to keep up. Roman’s eyes will show defeat after he takes Khallas after Khallas. Mahal sees his hand raised over the “exposed” Roman. But then Roman comes out to get this match started!

#TheBigDog @WWERomanReigns is on the HUNT for vengeance, and his target is @JinderMahal! #RAW pic.twitter.com/p2OsANBgqF

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

Mahal grins at Roman, he knows he’s ready to have this match. Mahal knows Roman blames Mahal for not being part of the MITB Ladder Match. But it’s Roman’s own failures that cloud his judgment. Oh, did Roman think this match was with Mahal? No, the challenge wasn’t for facing Mahal. The challenge is for another great Indian, “a man who is fearless, who stands shoulders above all competition.” Yes, Roman’s opponent is… The Great SUNIL SINGH! Sunil doesn’t seem to remember that part of the plan.

The bell rings, and Sunil pleads with Mahal. Mahal pumps Sunil up, but he’s just a lamb to the slaughter. Roman uppercuts Mahal! Sunil is all alone now, and Roman grins as he whips him into a SUPERMAN PUNCH! Roman fires up, laughs at Mahal, then lets out the howl. SPEAR! Cover, Roman wins!

Winner: Roman, by pinfall

But Mahal goes after Roman right away! KHALLAS!

No VICTORY celebration for @WWERomanReigns as @JinderMahal avenges Sunil @SinghBrosWWE's loss with a KHALLAS for #TheBigDog! #RAW pic.twitter.com/InSwh47ZJp

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

Mahal sacrificed his pawn so that he could get the drop on his enemy. Will Mahal pay for the bait and switch come Sunday?

The B Team VS Heath Slater & Rhyno!

The “Best” Team is set to face the Deleters of Worlds for the Raw Tag Team Championships, but they’ll test themselves in a match against the inaugural SmackDown Tag Team Champions. These four men were the final two teams in last week’s battle royal, but that’s far from a normal match. Will Axel & Bo stay “undefeated” going into their match with Bray Wyatt & WOKEN Matt Hardy?

The bell rings and Axel starts with Slater. Slater fires off on Axel, Axel powers out of the headlock, but Slater runs Axel over. Axel clubs Slater back, then whips, but Slater comes back with forearms. Slater hits Bo for good measure, but Axel powers Slater to a corner. Bo tags in, and the B Team mugs Slater in the corner. Axel backs off while BO reels Slater into an STO. Cover, TWO, so Bo drops many knees. Cover, TWO, but Bo keeps on Slater with a chinlock. Rhyno and the fans rally and Slater fights out with a jawbreaker. Slater brings Bo over but Bo whips him away. Bo hits Rhyno, then bumps him off buckles. Slater dodges Bo but Axel tags in. Axel ducks the kick but not hte punches. Slater sees Bo coming, but Bo slips out, B Team neckbreaker!

And JUST like that, #TheBTeam WINS AGAIN!!!!#RAW @TheBoDallas @RealCurtisAxel pic.twitter.com/xDsxGTuil7

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

Cover, The B Team wins!

Winners: The B Team (Axel & Bo), Axel pinning

They are still “undefeated”, and celebrate like they’ve already won the titles. But the champions appear via titantron, and applaud for their future opponents. “This jovial jamboree” that they partake in is… WONDERFUL~! Ye-e-e-e-es! Delightful~! Marvelous~! But they’re here. Yes, the Deleters of Worlds appear on stage. “Well done, you Obsolete Mules!” The B Team wants to prove themselves worthy of the titles. But beware, for their are omniscient~! “Just look around you, man.” The Woken surround you. The fireflies surround you. And they are always watching. Bray knows that Bo & Axel are burning up like the River Styx. That’s fear, and it reminds them that they bought the ticket, and now must ride the ride, ye-e-e-e-es. The Obnoxious Ants will be eaten, and deleted! The Yin-Yang of the Raw Tag Team Division has delivered an ominous ultimatum. Will the B Team remain undefeated and un-deleted?!

"We will EAT you and DELETE you!"

Are you scared yet, B-Team? #RAW @MATTHARDYBRAND @WWEBrayWyatt pic.twitter.com/9lUJyVan0z

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

Elias speaks.

The Drifter says tonight’s performance will be a struggle. he’s not used to performing in front of Arkansas hillbillies. Elias will make his way out to the ring after the break.

“Ladies and Gentlemen: Elias.”

Are you ready to walk with @IAmEliasWWE on #RAW? 🎶🎶 pic.twitter.com/JlAf6p5sBl

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) June 12, 2018

The Drifter has made his way to the ring, but has a mixed reaction from Little Rock. He plays his guitar and that gets more fans on his side. Elias wants them to remember the moment, because they are seeing a “once in a lifetime” performer live, and just moments before he becomes Intercontinental Champion. Seth Rollins will learn that WWE really stands for “WALK WITH ELIAS!” But other fans chant “Burn It Down!” in support of the Architect. As always, Elias asks the fans silence phones, hold applause, and for their own sake, shut mouths.

Elias plays again, singing “He’s the Architect, but he tells us to Burn it Down. Make up your damn mind, Seth, those are the worst nicknames around. Seth Freakin’ Rollins, am I supposed to think that cool? And I get it, you do Crossfit, so I know that you’re a tool.” Seth is void of talent and is a disgrace to Monday Night Raw, but he might even have been born in this “toilet” known as Arkansas. Seth will squeal like a pig, and walking with Elias is something to fear. But y’know what? Elias wasn’t going to, but he’s got something to show us all. He moves out of the spotlight to bring out a specially painted guitar for when Elias becomes IC Champion. John Mayer gave him that. They’re good friends.

This custom Fender, a thing of beauty. Elias won’t perform another song, which the fans like to hear. But next week, when Elias returns, he’ll play the greatest song yet with this guitar and that title. But speaking of, here comes Seth Rollins! The Architect rushes the ring but Elias is right on him! But Rollins sends Elias out with a hard bump on the apron. Rollins is fuming, and shouts for Elias to get some guts! Two weeks with a sneak attack guitar smash, for what? Making a name for himself? Rollins ain’t that hard to find. Rollins is in the same spot every Monday: the middle of the ring, with the IC title on his shoulder, begging for a fight. All Elias had to do was ask.

But the worst part? Rollins wanted to like Elias. Elias could do it all, from the spotlight to the songs to the guitars. Guitars… Rollins sees that custom Fender… Well this guitar… Elias tries to get Rollins to stop, and save it for Sunday. Rollins wants a closer look at the Fender. He picks it up, and “you weren’t lying, this is really, really nice.” Did the fans get a good look? Look at the craftsmanship. This should go to someone in Little Rock as part of a charity auction! Any takers? So many fans want it, but so does Elias. This is from Elias’ friend, John Mayer, right? Rollins wants to be very careful with it. He sets it down, and fans want him to smash it, but it’s so well-made. Rollins fakes a stomp, and Elias panics.

Elias begs Rollins wait for Sunday, but fans want him to smash it! Rollins knows he can’t play instruments, but he does know a song that’s three words long. And it usually happens when he taps his foot. So if Arkansas is willing to help out… “Burn it Down! Burn it Down!” That’s the one. CURB STOMP ON THE GUITAR!

Welp. Do you have a spare custom-made guitar for @IAmEliasWWE, @JohnMayer?#RAW @WWERollins pic.twitter.com/Uq95ESRq3Z

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

Elias is seething while Rollins gets himself some payback. Will Elias suffer more than just property damage at MITB?

Kevin Owens talks with Bobby Roode.

Seeing Seth Rollins smash that guitar, it reminds Kevin of Braun smashing the ladder like it was nothing. Roode is lucky to be standing. What does Kevin want? What’s best for everyone. Roode and Finn can’t beat Strowman alone, and not even Kevin can. If Strowman becomes Mr. MITB, that’s bad. They need to stop him. Therefore, tonight, a three-man alliance. Either Roode admits Kevin is right, or he goes it alone and ends up like the ladder. “It’s your call. Nice robe.” Roode also contemplates this recruitment pitch. Will Kevin get the GLORIOUS One on his side?

Bayley VS Ruby Riott w/ The Riott Squad!

The Huggable One is already in the ring while the Squad wreaks a bit of good wholesome havoc backstage. Can Bayley survive the Riott all alone? Or will the Squad get revenge for those eliminations in the Women’s Gauntlet match?

The bell rings and Bayley is wary of Liv Morgan and Sarah Logan. Bayley and Ruby circle while Liv & Sarah start the drums, and Ruby knocks Bayley down. Ruby clubs away on Bayley while Liv & Sarah taunt her. Ruby bends Bayley back against the bottom rope, then stalks her to a corner. The ref reprimands Ruby as she pulls Bayley’s hair. Ruby pie-faces Bayley, then puts her in another corner. Ruby throws forearms and kicks, but fans cheer Bayley. Bayley boots Ruby away, then rolls into a takedown! Bayely throws hands, then clubs Ruby. Ruby puts her in a corner, then fires off body shots, but Bayley turns it around.

Ruby elbows Bayley away, then drags Bayley up for a whip. Bayley reverses, Ruby kicks her away, but Bayley hits the Thesz Press! Bayley throws more hands, covers, TWO. The former Raw Women’s Champion drags Ruby up and into a corner, then to another. Bayley does it a third time, then drags Ruby away to whip her in hard. Bayley hits a bulldog! She goes to a corner and hops up, for the flying elbow! Ruby rolls out and the Squad regroups with their leader. Bayley waits, but then slips out around the side for a daredevil dropkick! She doesn’t have quite enough, but she still manages to push Ruby into the LED, then saido suplex Ruby down! Ruby writhes while we go to break.

Raw returns, and Ruby wrenches Bayley back with a grounded keylock. Ruby screams for Bayley to give up, but the Huggable One refuses. Fans rally up, and Bayley powers up to fight out. Bayley throws Ruby, then dropkicks the legs out. She knees ruby to ropes, then dodges to send her into a corner. Ruby grabs Bayley with Deadly Nightshade! Cover, TWO, and Ruby grows frustrated. Ruby keeps on Bayley and those bad shoulders while we go picture in picture to plug the PPV. Bayley endures the wrenching and the grinding as Ruby digs a knee in while pulling on that arm. Ruby bends that arm and pulls the wrist, but fans rally for Bayley as we go single picture. Bayley gets up while Ruby chicken wings and thrashes. Bayley picks Ruby up like a backpack to back her to the ropes. They hit buckles, but Ruby holds on.

Bayley tries again, and snapmares Ruby off. Ruby runs back in, but Bayley snake eyes and back elbows! Bayley rolls, wacky waving arms to a big knee strike. Ruby goes down while Bayley climbs up. Bayley aims, for the Macho Elbow! It misses! Ruby covers, TWO! The Squad is shocked that Bayley survived her crash and burn. Ruby drags Bayley up again, then wrenches the arm, but Bayley rolls her up! TWO, and Bayley goes to the apron. She slides back in to roll Ruby, TWO, so Ruby high stacks. TWO, and Bayley rocks Ruby with a knee. Ruby shakes the cobwebs out, but Bayley is ready. Liv distracts, and Sarah distracts, then Ruby throws Bayley into the post! Then, Riott Kick! Cover, Ruby wins!

Winner: Ruby, by pinfall

The Squad helps their leader get the W. But they’re not done with Bayley, as they use face paint to scribble and write all over Bayley. They leave a big letter R on Bayley’s belly before knocking her out with a right. Will the Squad continue to #StartaRiott on Raw?

The #RiottSquad just made its mark on @itsBayleyWWE… #RAW pic.twitter.com/aS4s69Be51

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) June 12, 2018

Ronda Rousey talks with Natalya backstage.

Natty warns Rousey that Nia Jax might try something. Ronda thanks Natty for the advice. The Baddest Woman and the Irresistible Force meet face to face, after the break.

Jonathan Coachman presides over this coming Face-to-Face.

This Sunday, it will be one of the biggest nights in Raw Women’s Division history as Nia Jax defends her title against Ronda Rousey. But before that, they will meet again here and now. Coach introduces the challenger, “Rowdy” Ronda!

There she is…#RAW just got ROWDY! @RondaRousey pic.twitter.com/6gfRLp5zl1

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

Ronda appears and takes her seat, then Coach introduces the champion, Nia Jax!

She's NOT like most…because she's THE #RAW #WomensChampion, @NiaJaxWWE! #RAW pic.twitter.com/ZbgvIPzQrf

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) June 12, 2018

Nia joins Ronda and Coach in the ring, and Coach knows that the next time they meet, the title is on the line.

What does the champion say about this friendly rivalry become an almost angry one? Nia isn’t surprised. Both women are very competitive. Things get tense when it comes to seeing who is best. Nia was just pushing some buttons. Ronda is beautiful, talented and popular, “she’s still very new in the WWE.” Ronda’s success was form Strike Force and UFC, which have very different rules. WWE allows things MMA doesn’t, like headbutts, slaps, back strikes, hair pulling, and more. Nia has had all those done to her and has done those to others. Come Sunday, Nia will show Ronda exactly what she means. Ronda responds: she doesn’t plan, she improvises. And Ronda will improvise Nia’s arm off. Coach reminds Ronda she’s only had one match. True, but Ronda earned that win.

Nia does give Ronda credit. That one match was impressive. But it was a tag match, against a part-timer. Ronda has never had a singles match, nor a title match, and no offense, Nia’s been grinding in WWE for years. Nia is not Stephanie, she’s THE Raw Women’s Champion. And yet Ronda wants to take Nia’s arm? Nia will take Ronda’s rep. “Because when I’m done with you, they’re gonna call me the Baddest Woman on the Planet.” Nia knows she’s gonna win. It’s why she challenged Ronda at all. Because at the end of the day, Ronda’s not ready.

Ronda grins and laughs as she stands up. “Not ready?” Ronda was told that when she was 17 and made the Olympics team. And she was told that again when she went after the Strike Force title after only four fights, but she still won. And she got it again when she main-evented with record attendance. Everyone thought she wasn’t ready for UFC, but now she’s a UFC hall of famer! “I am Ronda Rousey, and I was born ready!” Ronda takes off the jacket, and now Nia stands. Nia shows Ronda the belt, then goes for a punch! Ronda blocks it! But Nia headbutts Ronda down! Nia drags Ronda up by her ponytail, but Ronda catches Nia into the armbar!

Nia holds on tight, but Ronda keeps trying. The champ stands up and deadlifts her challenger, but Ronda wrangles Nia back down. Nia taps!! Ronda lets Nia go, having proved her point. Can Ronda do that all over again on Sunday to become the new Raw Women’s Champion?

Business = TAKEN CARE OF. @RondaRousey just made @NiaJaxWWE TAP OUT!

Can she do the same thing this Sunday at #MITB? #RAW pic.twitter.com/7MVHMLkPmI

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

Curt Hawkins VS No Way Jose!

The Fact Checker, the Superstar Factory, the History-Making Machine did indeed make history: he is the man of 200 consecutive losses. Will Hawkins himself finally #FacetheFacts that he’s not cut out for Raw anymore?

Hawkins’ music hits, but he doesn’t come out. Jose is confused, as is the referee. When Hawkins doesn’t come out the second time, the bell rings and it is now a ring count. The count reaches 5, but Hawkins doesn’t appear. But then he appears from the CROWD! He rolls Jose, TWO, Fastball Special!

Interesting game plan by @TheCurtHawkins, but it was NOT enough…

Loss #2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣ and counting. #RAW pic.twitter.com/mvBlRGNstb

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

Cover, Jose wins!

Winner: Jose, by pinfall

A clever idea from Hawkins, but it wasn’t enough. Hawkins is now Mr. 201, will he ever get out from under the losing streak?

Finn talks with Roode.

They’ve both talked with Kevin. Do they trust Kevin? Nope. But who do they trust? The devil they now, or the Monster Among Men? Roode feels they should work with Kevin at first, but they need to keep their eyes on him, too. Finn agrees, he’ll keep an eye on Kevin, and one on Roode.

WWE and Raw look closer at Katie Millar.

Katie is a powerlifter in the coming Special Olympics games. She never knew she was so strong. The Special Olympics introduced her to new people and friends, including Coach Tim. Katie has improved in her deadlifts, and has improved her confidence. The confidence boost helped her get a job, and helps her be happy in life. The Seattle Games are coming, so cheer Katie and the other athletes on as they #GoForGold!

Renee Young hosts a Raw Obstacle Course.

First up, Sami Zayn, who concocted this idea.

It's time for an…OBSTACLE COURSE on #RAW?!@SamiZayn will explain. pic.twitter.com/HF6OVmjlcN

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

But why did he decide to challenge Bobby Lashley to this? All Sami did was ask if Lashley was actually an American soldier. Fans took offense then and then take offense now. Sami speaks on how everyone came to defend Lashley, but there’s no way to verify any of that. Lashley can prove it, if he does this Army based obstacle course faster than Sami. Sami explains piece by piece what you have to do. First, the tire flip, but it’s a 225 lbs. tractor tire. Then there’s the low crawls, where Lashley will fail because he’s heavy while Sami is lean. Then there’s the “Three Sisters” wall jump, from Kathy to Francis to the “Great Wall of Jessica.” Fourth is the Monkey Bars, easy enough, but in Sami’s opinion, Lashley will be too tired to properly swing.

And if by some miracle he makes it past that, it’s the dreaded rope climb! Pretty hard to climb this rope at 100%, but Lashley will have to do it last to ring those bells and stop the timer. From what Sami is told, the Green Berets can do this in roughly two minutes. Sami did a test run and came in at 90 seconds. That’s without a warm-up and with the bad hand crushed by Lashley, as well as no motivation. But imagine how he’ll do with everyone cheering him on! And when Sami wins the obstacle course challenge, the victory will be dedicated to the real best country: Canada. With that, Renee introduces Lashley.

It's GO TIME, @SamiZayn.#RAW @fightbobby pic.twitter.com/EVDlhdYXTw

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

What is Lashley’s reaction to this challenge? Everyone is tired of listening to Sami. Lashley will beat him at this obstacle course, then beat him down at MITB. A coin toss will decide who goes first. Sami wants to keep Lashley at a safe distance. Sami trusts Renee with the coins. Heads it’s Lashley, Tails it’s Sami. Heads, go Bobby Lashley. Fans fire up, and Lashley sets up by the tire. Sami wants the fans to shut up so he can count down the start. No cheating, no head starts! Does Lashley understand? Three… Two… One, GO.

Lashley flips the tire twice, runs down the ramp, crawls real low, then hops the walls. He clears the third wall at 20 seconds and hits the monkey bars with ease. He even shows off a pull-up first. Then Lashley hits the ropes, and without using legs, he hits the bells at 48 seconds! But then Sami ambushes Lashley! This was never about an obstacle course! Sami throws Lashley into the frames, then HELLUVA KICKS Lashley down. He even swings away on the rope. Fans boo while Sami celebrates and talks trash. The referees keep Sami away from Lashley, but Sami grins all the way to the back. Fans chant ‘USA! USA!” in support of Lashley, will he get revenge on Sami on Sunday?

Kevin talks strategy with Finn and Roode.

What makes him think they agreed to anything? But then Strowman comes by, and dares them to go 3v1 against him. Strowman roars, and that alone scares them a bit. The Fatal 4 Way is up next, will Strowman leave three top tier superstars down and out before MITB? Or will Kevin’s “plan” work out?

UP NEXT: Will @FightOwensFight @FinnBalor & @REALBobbyRoode form an alliance against @BraunStrowman in #RAW's #Fatal4Way main event?! pic.twitter.com/3MCAbc6Hsx

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

Men’s Fatal 4 Way: Braun Strowman VS Finn Balor VS Kevin Owens VS Bobby Roode!

The Monster Among Men, the Extraordinary Man, the Prizefighter and the GLORIOUS One will all compete in the Men’s MITB ladder match along with The Miz, Samoa Joe, Rusev and a member of the New Day. This main event is simply an appetizer for that main event, who will be in pole position for Raw after tonight?

The bell rings, and things are tense as Strowman waits for the alliance to make a move. Finn and Roode hesitate, not wanting Kevin to take advantage, but Kevin just cowers in the corner. Strowman roars and barrels through to ram Kevin into the corner! Then he swats Finn and Roode down with ease. Kevin runs out but gets swatted down, too. Strowman throws Roode across the way, then clubs Finn down. Strowman hits Kevin, then whips him to ropes. Kevin holds on and bails out, as do Roode and Finn. This unofficial handicap match is going Strowman’s way while we go to one more break.

Raw returns once more, and Strowman waits for the others to return. Kevin, Finn and Roode flank Strowman and surround him. They club and kick away but Strowman is strong. They ram him into a corner and ram in shoulders and kicks. Kevin taunts Strowman, “Who’s the Monster now?” Finn and Roode throw hands and chops, then Kevin rams in his shoulder. Strowman stays standing but the assault keeps going. Kevin runs in, but then Strowman shoves him down! Strowman swats Roode and side slams Finn! Finn rolls away, but Strowman goes after Roode. Kevin goes after Strowman, but it doesn’t bother Strowman at all. Strowman clubs Roode down, then scares Kevin out of the ring. Kevin pleads while Strowman pursues, but Finn flies in with a dropkick. The alliance keeps on Strowman with more clubbing forearms, but Strowman explodes out!

Strowman glares at the ring leader and pursues Kevin up the ring and to the backstage area. Finn and Roode wait, and Strowman tosses Kevin back out! Strowman drags Kevin up by his ear, then headbutts him. Kevin staggers away, but in come Finn and Roode, only for Strowman to smack them away with uppercuts. Strowman grabs Kevin, and throws him into the LED wall. The Monster dominates all three men, then goes to a ladder and brings it down. Strowman goes to the announce desk, and Coach, Cole and Graves run away. Strowman clears the table, then glares back at the trio. He storms over and grabs Kevin, hauling him up onto his shoulder. But Roode uses a ladder as a batternig ram. He and Finn work together and hit Strowman again.

Roode and Finn herd Strowman to the desk, and they keep going on him with clubbing forearms. Kevin positions a standing ladder nearby, and they place Strowman on the desk. Roode and Finn hold the ladder still for Kevin to climb. Kevin aims and… SUPER FROG SPLASH!! Kevin decimates Strowman and the desk!! Raw goes to one final break.

THIS. JUST. HAPPENED!#RAW @FightOwensFight pic.twitter.com/IcSrv0Gxso

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) June 12, 2018

Raw is back once again, and the match has returned to the ring. With Strowman and Kevin out, Roode and Finn go 1v1. Roode rams knees into Finn’s arm while referees check on Strowman and Kevin. Finn endures as Roode grinds his own elbow into Finn’s. Roode pulls on the arm, but Finn gets up. Roode wrenches but Finn hits back, repeat. Finn fires more forearms, Roode shoves him and elbows him, but the PELE takes Roode down. Everyone is down all over the arena, while we go picture in picture. Finn and Roode stir in the ring, and head for opposite corners. Finn grits his teeth as he stands up and aims at Roode. Roode stands while we go single picture. Roode runs in but Finn dodges to chop. Finn whips but Roode reverses, only for Finn to run him over.

Finn gets the takedown, double stomps! Roode gets back to a corner, but Finn runs in for another chop. Finn whips Roode corner to corner, but runs into boots. Roode hops up but Finn kicks him down and out! Fans fire up, and Finn builds speed, only to run into Roode’s forearm. Roode hops up again, and hits the GLORIOUS Blockbuster. Cover, TWO! Roode and Finn slowly stand, still no Kevin or Strowman. Roode grabs Finn and brings him up, but Finn small packages, TWO. Finn gets up, Slingblade to Roode! Then the blasting dropkick hits Roode off buckles. Fans fire up and Finn climbs. Finn aims, but Kevin returns to knock him down. Finn stays standing while Kevin climbs, and Finn returns the favor. Fans fire up again as Finn tries, but Roode trips him up! Finn gets crotch’d on the crossbar.

Roode gets himself up, and then climbs to join Finn. He wants the superplex, but Finn resists. Kevin joins in, and makes it a Tower of Doom! But Kevin can’t cover, he’s too exhausted. All three men are down, but Kevin gets moving. Kevin gets himself to a corner, but Strowman is stirring! The Monster stands!? Kevin panics as he watches Strowman lumber his way over. Fans chant “Get These Hands!” but Finn runs to meet Strowman. Strowman rocks Finn with a right, then boots Roode. Kevin sees Strowman is coming for him, and runs away! Kevin goes to the crowd, but he stumbles and falls. Strowman drags Kevin up and back to the ring in a headlock. Strowman roars and clubs Kevin down. But then Strowman sees the others getting up.

Even with bad ribs, Strowman runs Finn over, then runs Roode over. Strowman is still going, and runs Kevin over! He puts Kevin in the ring, those ribs only slowing him down a moment or two. Strowman scoops Kevin but Roode bails him out. They get sandwiched in a corner, but Finn returns and swing kicks Strowman. Finn climbs, stomps to the back! Strowman falls to a knee, but Finn runs out, only to get run over again. Strowman’s ribs are aching, but he’s the only one standing. He hauls Finn up, but Kevin SUPERKICKS! Roode chop blocks, then Kevin SUPERKICKS again. Roode grabs Strowman, but Kevin rolls Roode! TWO, GLORIOUS Spinebuster! Finn hits the elbow drop DDT on Roode! SLINGBLADE to Finn! Finn hits his blasting dropkick! He climbs up! COUP DE GRACE!

Just a SECOND away from victory was @FinnBalor after THIS #CoupDeGrace to @BraunStrowman! #RAW #Fatal4Way pic.twitter.com/VDfbMaePoY

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) June 12, 2018

Cover, but Roode breaks it. Roode throws Finn sideways into a post, then winds it up… GLORIOUS Pose, to GLORIOUS DDT! Cover, but Kevin breaks it up. Kevin throws Roode way out, then climbs up again. Kevin aims, FROG SPLASH! Cover, TWO?! Kevin cannot believe it. Strowman survives three powerful moves in a row? But fans know “This is Awesome”! Kevin rolls out to fetch a new ladder. He puts it in the ring, and uses it to go after Strowman’s ribs. Strowman somehow stays standing, and then grabs the ladder away from Kevin. He grabs Kevin by the throat, and Kevin shouts “I’m sorry!” as he takes the CHOKE SLAM! Strowman positions the ladder, picks Kevin up, MONSTER SLAM on the ladder! Cover, Strowman wins!

Winner: Strowman, by pinfall

Not even three men allied, using everything they had, was enough to stop this behemoth. Throw in SmackDown’s four, will that be enough to stop Strowman from becoming Mr. MONSTER in the Bank? Or will Strowman #GetTheseHands on the contract and begin the hunt for The Beast?

UNREAL.@BraunStrowman drops @FightOwensFight with a #RunningPowerslam on the ladder to WIN the #Fatal4Way match! #RAW pic.twitter.com/ijIvmhT37d

— WWE (@WWE) June 12, 2018

My Thoughts:

This here tonight, this is what a go-home for a PPV should be. The opening with everyone on ladders was a little cliche for MITB (or even TLC) but I enjoyed the integration of Mixed Match Challenge for Alexa & Strowman and Finn & Sasha. And while it was confusing as to why Alexa needed an entrance when all four women were already out there, that Fatal 4 opener more than made up for it. All four women shined, and I was happily surprised to see Natalya wins. Between this and Ronda getting one-up on Nia, I wonder if they’ll both win again, and then Natty turns Heel when she cashes in without warning, sparking their feud. Meanwhile, given McIntyre & Ziggler dominating, I those two might just go after all four men  in the title match and get themselves a shot sooner rather than later.

The one low point was Roman VS Mahal advertised for tonight. At first, I was hoping they’d get this match out of the way so more time could be given to the other matches. Instead, Mahal swerves, and will probably just cheat to win on Sunday. The Elias and Rollins segment was great, but I do feel a little bad that all the work that went into that custom paint job is for getting smashed. But in kayfabe, Elias deserved it, and I expect not even being upset will help him win against Rollins. Rollins is going to be on an amazing tear with that IC title this Summer, count on that. The Ronda-Nia face-to-face was great in itself, and with rumors of Rousey not sticking around as long as thought, that might mean she gets the title now just to check it off.

Poor Hawkins, he just can’t catch a break. Since he and now-bald Corbin don’t seem to be doing a program, I have no idea who Hawkins beats to finally break his bad streak. The obstacle course segment for Sami and Lashley was actually pretty good, but of course it was so Sami could attack Lashley. Their match at MITB will still be really great, so luckily there was some coherency to the build before the end. And WOW was the main event tonight worthy of a PPV in itself. The story was all there with Kevin getting the three non-monsters working together, but Strowman looks even stronger after winning. Kevin has a point, though: if Strowman wins MITB and then cashes in on Lesnar, he’s gonna have that belt a long time himself. But at least Strowman will show up every week when he does.

My Score: 8.5/10