Monday Night Raw is LIV(E)!

Liv Morgan took on The Man for the WWE Women’s World Championship, and WON! But not without some controversy. Will Becky get her belt back Big Time? Or will we still have to #WatchLiv?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Braun Strowman VS JD McDonagh w/ The Judgment Day; Braun wins.
• Ricochet VS Ilja Dragunov; Ricochet wins, by disqualification.
• The Authors of Pain w/ The Final Testament VS The Creed Brothers w/ Ivy Nile; The AOP win.
• Lyra Valkyria VS Kairi Sane w/ Dakota Kai; Lyra wins.
• Carlito VS Rey Mysterio w/ The LWO; Rey wins.
• Otis w/ Chad Gable VS Bronson Reed; Bronson wins.
• WWE Women’s World Championship Steel Cage Match: Liv Morgan VS Becky Lynch; Liv wins and retains the title.

PLAY BY PLAY

Ludwig Kaiser is in the ring.

The Impeccable German says, “Ladies and gentlemen…! I demand ALL YOUR GRATITUDE…! For Der Ring General, and YOUR KING! OF THE RING…! GUUUUNTHERRR!” And with that, the 2024 King of the Ring makes his entrance! The 23rd King of the Ring all time, Gunther overcame the Apex Predator, but the fans here in Savannah, Georgia aren’t happy about it. Gunther joins Kaiser in the ring, crown in one hand and microphone in the other. The fans chant “We Want Randy!” but Gunther just smirks. Gunther then says that on Saturday, he beat Randy Orton, and he is now the rightful King of the Ring.

With that said, Gunther also earned the opportunity to challenge the World Heavyweight champion at SummerSlam. So let’s talk about the current World Heavyweight Champion, Damian Priest. And Gunther has followed Priest’s path. Ever since Rhea Ripley went down with injury, Priest really stepped up and took responsibility. Gunther admires that, as he is a man himself who succeeds in taking on responsibility. The Intercontinental Championship lacked prestige, and it was on Gunther to step up and become the greatest Intercontinental Champion of all time! The fans boo again but Gunther continues.

“The King of the Ring Tournament was lacking prestige, and again, I had to step up and raise it to levels and heights never seen before! And now the World Heavyweight Championship is lacking prestige, because the champion won it by taking a shortcut! And I don’t appreciate-” WAIT! Here comes that World Heavyweight Champion! Priest has Finn Balor & JD McDonagh by his side as he storms down to the ring. Priest has them hang back while he joins Gunther in the ring, and Gunther even has Kaiser step out. Priest gets himself a mic, the fans cheer.

Priest says, “Prestige? Shortcuts? Look man, you are the King of the Ring, you’ve got that adorable crown right there to prove it. And, you do get a shot at SummerSlam. But let’s be real here, like, you think you earned something? We all saw you did not beat Randy Orton. You’ve proved nothing! You want a pat on the back, great, I’ll give you a pat on the back. But you wanna take credit for something? Take credit for costing Randy Orton a shot. You wanna talk about shortcuts, dog, yeah I cashed in. But you know why? Because I earned a briefcase in a ladder match. That’s how that works.

“And yeah, I cashed in. I cashed in just like a lot of others cashed in before me. That’s how that works. I gotta ask you, dog, do you get how business around here works? I can teach you a lesson.” Both men smirk, and Gunther says, “It doesn’t matter to me who you think about this, I focus on the facts. And the facts are, I am the King of the Ring. And if you’re still the champion at SummerSlam, I’m gonna challenge you for that title. And in terms of teaching me about the business… Well, maybe you can. Business is not my expertise, and also, I’m kinda waiting for it. Because ever since I stepped in this company, I’m waiting for anyone to teach me anything after that bell has rung!”

Gunther says he can’t teach Priest business, but he can teach Priest about this great sport! This sport that Gunther loves and protects with everything he has. So Priest has two options: either he gives this stupid business lecture before this match and address Gunther as King; or give it to him after, and call him World Heavyweight Champion. Priest says that’s good. Priest respects Gunther’s IC title reign. But as YOUR World Champion, what can Gunther teach Priest that he doesn’t already know? Priest and Gunther at SummerSlam, they’ll go to war- WAIT! Now here comes The Scottish Terminator, Drew McIntyre!

The fans are torn as McIntyre gets his pyro and joins the conversation in the ring. The fans taunt McIntyre with chants of “C M PUNK! C M PUNK!” McIntyre asks to address this quick or else the fans won’t shut up. McIntyre tells the fans that CM Punk’s been back for six months now, and the highlight of his return has been McIntyre. Let’s be honest, if McIntyre didn’t hurt Punk, he would’ve screwed up, gotten fired, and have nowhere else to go. You’re welcome, Punk! But anyway, hi, nice to meet you, this is Drew McIntyre, the #1 Contender. And Gunther does realize McIntyre’s gonna be World Champion in less than three weeks, doesn’t he?

Gunther says that’s a good point. Gunther takes his leave, and Priest says he wants to be clear with McIntyre. He isn’t looking past McIntyre or anything, it’s just that he knows what’ll happen when they’re done. McIntyre says he’s trying to help Priest, to lift him up, and to have the best possible version of him. He’s spreading himself too thin! Judgment Day is screwing up left and right, no offense to Finn. “Dum Dum” Dom went to Saudi Arabia just to screw up! Seems ever since Mami got hurt and took away the real leader, this group’s gone to hell. That’s why McIntyre is here to help. Priest needs to focus on what is important: that world championship!

Priest doesn’t realize what’s coming for him. McIntyre will paint a picture: Wade Barrett, Fit Finlay, William Regal, British Bulldog, what do they all have in common? They’re UK legends, but they’ve won exactly ZERO world titles. McIntyre is the only one to ever do it, he’s done it three times, soon to be four times! Do tape study, Clash at the Castle last time, how crazy the fans went! They broke Roman Reigns mentally! If not for Solo Sikoa, McIntyre would’ve won. And now they’re going to Glasgow, Scotland, McIntyre’s home, so here’s a geography lesson since they don’t teach that here in America! The fans start a “U S A! U S A!” chant in response.

McIntyre says he’s a citizen now, he’s just telling the truth. But hey, last time, Wales was here, England next to it, Scotland way up there. And Scots are the most passionate people in the world! McIntyre has been the Terminator, the Warrior, the Psychopath! And in Scotland, he’s just “Drew,” cuz they’re all like that. Priest is walking into a war zone. Those fans are gonna break Priest’s spirit, McIntyre will break his body, and so far Priest’s been overshadowed by two guys that’ve been hurt. McIntyre just got cleared, and now he’ll take that bloody title! Fans are torn, but Priest laughs it off. That’s McIntyre’s game plan? What?

Was that McIntyre’s best shot? That the fans will boo him? Drew, Priest literally has made a living off proving people wrong. McIntyre should know that won’t work. Priest will talk some truth. Is Mrs. McIntyre gonna be there? What’s her name again? McIntyre tells Priest to choose his words carefully. Priest could care less. He just wanted to see how easy it was to get under McIntyre’s skin, and he clearly did. Priest wants to see if McIntyre is man enough to do something about it, but it looks like- BRAAAAUN~! The Monster Among Men is no longer waiting, he wants his fight with The Irish Ace now!

Braun storms into the ring, stares Priest right in the eye because he’s just that big, but Priest just smirks. Priest tells JD to handle this, but that’s a tall task. Will JD even survive tonight? We find out, after the break.

Braun Strowman VS JD McDonagh w/ The Judgment Day!

Raw returns and JD runs up, but Braun catches him! Braun trophy lifts JD over his head! The fans fire up but JD fights free! JD KICKS and KICKS and KICKS but Braun TOSESS JD to a corner! JD ducks the splash, tries again, but Braun YANKS JD up and away! JD bails out, Finn checks on him, and JD gets back in. JD and Braun circle, then Finn distracts Braun! JD CLUBS Braun, but Braun HEADBUTTS JD! JD goes to a corner, Braun CLUBS him! Finn distracts Braun more, but Braun still TOSSES JD across the way! The fans fire up with Braun and he stalks JD. JD goes to a corner, Braun runs up, but JD dodges the splash!

JD KICKS a leg, but Braun DECKS JD! Braun drags JD up, scoops him, and SLAMS him! Braun dusts himself off, then KICKS JD in the side! JD flounders, Finn tries to distract again. JD gets up to CHOP, CHOP, and CHOP, but Braun doesn’t flinch! Braun CHOPS JD right off his feet! Braun flexes, then drags JD back up. Braun puts JD in a corner, goes corner to corner, and SPLASHES! JD flops and flounders, but Braun storms back over. JD CHOPS, but Braun HEADBUTTS! Braun says that big head hurts to hit. Braun stands JD up to TOSS back to a corner, then he runs up, but JD trips Braun up! Braun POSTS himself!

Braun tumbles to the floor, the ring count begins. Braun rises at 5 of 10 so JD goes out after him. JD CHOP BLOCKS Braun’s leg! JD nods as he finally has Braun down, and Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Braun shoves JD away. JD comes back to dropkick the bad leg! JD puts the leg around ropes but Braun CLUBS JD and shoves him again. Braun runs up to LARIAT! Both men are down and the fans rally up! Braun and JD slowly rise, Braun shoves JD away to then back drop him! JD flops to the apron, Finn helps him up, and Braun shakes out the bad leg. The fans rally, Braun rises, and Braun hears the fans fire up! Braun says time to get on the track! The Strowman Express hobbles but he still CLOBBERS JD! JD tumbles away, Braun roars, and Braun drags JD up to get him in the ring.

JD scrambles away, Braun hobbles after him, and he scoops. But Finn gets on the apron! The ref reprimands, Braun dumps JD to TOSS Finn into the ring! Finn flounders, the ref is busy with him, and here comes Carlito! Carlito CLUBS Braun, but that just pisses Braun off! Braun grabs Carlito by his hair and DECKS him! But JD RISING HEADBUTTS! JD CHOP BLOCKS the big leg, to run and tilt-o-whirl, into a MONSTER SLAM!! Cover, Braun wins!

Winner: Braun Strowman, by pinfall

But now Carlito and Finn mug Braun! The fans boo but Braun busts free! Braun TOSSES Finn, CLOBBERS Carlito, and roars again! But JD SMACKS him with a chair! It does nothing but make Braun frown! The fans tell JD he just F’d up! Braun turns around, SLAPS the chair down, and JD runs away! Judgment Day regroups but Braun pursues, he’s not finished with them yet! Is Judgment Day gonna need more people to stop The Monster Among Men?

Backstage interview with Liv Morgan.

Cathy Kelley is with the NEW WWE Women’s World Champion, and congratulates her on the win at King & Queen of the Ring. Does Liv have any remorse over how she won? Nope. But she didn’t know Dom was gonna do that. Meanwhile, Liv has Becky reminding everyone at every chance she gets that Liv had never beaten her 1v1, and then with Dom’s interference, it’s technically still true. But Liv isn’t here to talk about Dom, she’s hear to talk about finally being THE Women’s World Champion! And if she’s gonna hold the title, she does need to beat Becky straight up. That’s why Liv is defending her title in her first ever Steel Cage Match.

And that way, it’s nowhere to run, nowhere to hide, just her beating Becky 1v1. The Liv Morgan Revenge Tour isn’t over, it is just getting started. If you don’t believe, #WatchMe.

Judgment Day regroups backstage.

Finn asks Carlito what took him so long to show up. Carlito says he was waiting for the right time! Priest says that didn’t work. Where’s JD? Probably still being chased by Braun. Priest says just find JD, bring him back to the clubhouse and they’ll figure it out. Finn says consider it done. Finn asks which direction JD and Braun went? Carlito says probably that way. Will they find JD in one piece?

Ricochet gets checked by the trainers.

He should be good as tolerated. Adam Pearce checks in and says that’s good news. As much as Pearce advises against it, if Ricochet is cleared, then he can compete. Good, because Ricochet wants Bron Breakker. Well, Bron is at home, he’s been fined and suspended for the week, he has to pay for crossing the line. But the match will happen, all in due time. Ilja Dragunov walks in and thanks Ricochet for taking the hit. Bron is a maniac. If Ricochet didn’t push Ilja, well… But if Ricochet is healed up, let’s go another round. Then good, how about tonight? Well, no, Dragunov fights people and he breaks them, but he doesn’t fight broken people.

Ricochet says he is money, ain’t never been broke. Medical says he’s good, so Pearce, make it happen. Pearce says if they want it, it is official. Seriously? Ricochet says deadly. Get your gear. The One and Only heads out, but will he regret running right into the path of another runaway train?

Ricochet VS Ilja Dragunov!

Raw returns and The Mad Dragon makes his entrance. QR Code weirdness happens, the bell rings and Dragunov says those bad ribs are clearly not 100%. Ricochet still DROPKICKS Dragunov anyway! Dragunov goes to a corner, Ricochet fires an UPPERCUT! Dragunov CHOPS back, CHOPS again, then storms up to CHOP int he corner! Dragunov whips corner to corner, Ricochet goes up and over, but those ribs slow him down. Dragunov waistlocks, GERMAN SUPELXES, but Ricochet lands out! Ricochet KNEES low again and again, then ROLLING- NO, Dragunov gets around to GERMAN SUPLEX!

Dragunov holds on and says this is what Ricochet wanted! GERMAN SUPLEX! Dragunov drags Ricochet up again, but Ricochet fights with elbows. The fans rally, Ricochet pries the waistlock but Dragunov shifts to HAMMER away with elbows! Then he GOTCH LIFT BACK SUPELXES! Bridging cover, TWO! Ricochet escapes, Dragunov storms up on the corner, but Ricochet ROCKS him with a forearm! Dragunov springs up to PELE! Then he gets Ricochet up, but Ricochet slips free! Ricochet kicks, Dragunov blocks and FLIPS Ricochet, to then KNEE him down! Ricochet tumbles out of the ring, the fans fire up, and Dragunov bites the ropes as Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Dragunov fires forearms back and forth with Ricochet! Ricochet UPPERCUTS, but Dragunov fires boxing elbows! Dragunov ROCKS Ricochet, waistlocks, and GERMAN SUPLEXES! Ricochet flounders, Dragunov runs, CONSTANTINE- JUMP KNEE! Dragunov tumbles out of the ring, Ricochet snarls and builds speed! Ricochet DIVES, direct hit into the barriers! The fans fire up as Ricochet gets back in the ring. Dragunov staggers to the ramp side, and Ricochet DIVES again! But Dragunov catches Ricochet and RAMS him into the apron! Dragunov hauls Ricochet back up, but Ricochet fights the bomb!

Ricochet kicks Dragunov from the apron, then refreshes the count. Ricochet ASAI MOONSAULTS off the corner! Down go both Ricochet and Dragunov and the ref checks then both. Ricochet rises, Dragunov is dazed, but “This is Awesome!” as Ricochet puts Dragunov in. Ricochet climbs, rises, 450 but has to roll through as Dragunov moves! Dragunov BOOTS! Ricochet UPPERCUTS! Ricochet ROCKS Dragunov, Dragunov springs up to LARIAT! Dragunov drags Ricochet up, runs, CONSTANTINE SPECIAL! Cover, TWO! Ricochet is still in this and Dragunov is surprised! Dragunov snarls and fans hope these two “FIGHT FOREVER!”

Ricochet rises, Dragunov CHOPS him in the corner! And CHOPS, CHOPS, CHOPS! The fans “WOO~!” with every CHOP, but the ref counts. Dragunov lets off, runs side to side, but he blocks the superkick! Dragunov ROCKS Ricochet, reels him in, and POWERBOMBS him down! Both men fall, the fans fire back up, and Dragunov drags himself to ropes. Dragunov climbs the corner, the fans rally, and Dragunov blows a kiss before he goes COAST2- SUPERKICK!! Ricochet fires up, the fans are thunderous, and Ricochet runs in for the RECOIL!! Cover, TWO?!? Dragunov survives and Ricochet is stunned!

The fans rally as hard as they can as Ricochet rises! Ricochet goes up the corner, but Dragunov rises to SLAP him! Dragunov climbs up after Ricochet but Ricochet CLUBS away on Dragunov! Dragunov fires forearms in return! Ricochet HEADBUTTS again and again! Dragunov falls, Ricochet rises, and SHOOTING STAR PRESS!! BUT BRON IS HERE AND HE SPEARS RICOCHET!!!

Winner: Ricochet, by disqualification

So much for being suspended and at home! Dragunov gets up to CHOP Bron, CHPO again, and CHOP again! Bron just shoves Dragunov and SPEARS him down!! The refs and producers rush out here to reprimand Bron, and Pearce asks what the hell he’s even doing here! Bron just grins and leaves. Pearce follows, tells him to do what he’s told! Bron frowns at Pearce, but he still leaves the building. Is Bron going to keep leaving bodies laying as he goes?

Raw returns with Cathy Kelley.

She is nearby as Pearce continues to chew Bron out over defying suspension. Surely Pearce is second guessing his choice to draft Bron in the first place. Kiana James walks over to offer her help, and Pearce accepts. Will Kiana help Pearce figure out the Bron problem?

The Awesome Truth are running an ice cream truck?

The Miz says this is actually a great idea for Memorial Day. Truth hands him a Drumstick but Miz asks why he’s in all white. Truth says represent the flavor. Oh, so Miz is vanilla, and Truth is- Yep, strawberry! What was Miz gonna say? The New Day walk over and asks what was Miz gonna say. St-Strawberry, obviously! Can they help The New Day? Yes, actually. Are they doing the Memorial Day raffle for a title opportunity? Miz says no, Truth says yes. Truth asks why. Because they’re WWE superstars, not bingo callers! Hokey pokey? That was last week. But well they’re closed. Truth shuts the window, Miz gives Woods the Drumstick.

And then Karrion Kross walks over. Enjoying the sun and the ice cream? They sigh that Karrion Kross, middle name Criss, is here. But let’s skip the cryptic comments and get to the match. No, he’s not doing that, he’s trying to help. Namely help Woods. Kofi’s had his time in the spotlight. The top of WWE is a number’s game and Woods doesn’t have it. Kross has faith in Woods, but Woods won’t get to the top until he cuts this New Day crap out. Watch AOP tonight and see what he’s telling them. Watch AOP? What? No! Woods isn’t breaking up a 10 year friendship and the greatest tag team in WWE history just because Kross asked nicely!

In other words, NO! So jump jump on outta here. Get it? Kross says typical. When is Kofi gonna let Woods shine? When he retires? Then Kross can help him look into some early retirement plans. Woods keeps things from getting physical, and tells Kross to tell “Tokka and Rahzar” that when they’re in the ring against New Day, New Day will show you how much they got left in the tank. Oh so we’re doing this the hard way? Good, that’s Kross’ favorite. Kross leaves, Woods says Miz was not gonna say strawberry. But whatever flavor we’re talking, who tastes sweet, sweet victory and the other bitter defeat?

The Authors of Pain w/ The Final Testament VS The Creed Brothers w/ Ivy Nile!

The teams sort out and The AOP just attack! Akam fires off on Julius, Rezar has Brutus! Akam DECKS Julius but Brutus fights him off! But Rezar fireman’s carries! CORNER DEATH VALLEY! Rezar roars, the fans boo, but Ellering says stay on Brutus. Tag to Akam, he DECKS Brutus! Akam puts Brutus on ropes to CHOKE, then he lets off. Kross is amused as Rezar tags in. Rezar and Kam get Brutus up, ATOMIC KNEE! Cover, TWO! Scarlett tells Brutus to just stay down, but the “Albanian Psycho” cranks Brutus’ head in a neck wrench. The fans rally, Brutus endures and fights up, but REzar throws him down!

Tag to the “Punjabi Powerhouse” and he stomps Brutus down. Akam drags Brutus up, whips him to a corner, then roars and runs up, but Brutus dodges! Akam hits buckles, Brutus hurries, hot tag to Julius! Julius goes up and FLYING FOREARMS! Julius BLASTS Rezar for good measure! EXPLODER and kip up! EXPLODER and kip up! Rezar gets in, EXPLODER to kip up! Julius goes up and up to MOONSAULT! Direct hit and Julius brings down the straps! Julius hoists Akam up, Brutus tags in! Brutus climbs, but Scarlett RAMS Ivy into steel steps! That distracts teh Creeds, Akam sends Julius into Brutus! URENAGE!

Tag to Rezar, the AOP get Julius up to DRAG THE LAKE! Cover, AOP wins!

Winners: The Authors of Pain, by pinfall

Ellering deems that #WhataRush! It’s hard to say if The AOP are the new LOD, but will the New Day RIP after taking them on next week?

Rey Mysterio speaks.

“Carlito, my old friend. You do know that you were welcomed into the LWO with open arms, right? And if you hadn’t taken the path you’d taken, you still would be my brother. Oh, yes. But your jealousy over Dragon Lee made you bitter. Yor attack on Cruz Del Toro was a huge mistake. And hey, you can run to the Judgment Day all day long, and maybe they’ll welcome you with open arms like I did. But those days are over. When we step in the ring tonight, you’re not gonna find an old friend across from you. You’re gonna find out what happens when you cross the LWO. You’re gonna find out what happens when you cross Rey Mysterio!”

The King of Lucha has issued his ultimatum, will Caribbean Cool

Sheamus walks the halls.

The Celtic Warrior returns after his defeat to Gunther, and then we hear Braun shouting for JD! JD is spotted talking to… Liv Morgan? And then he runs away before the Monster can get him! Sheamus just chuckles and continues to gorilla, what will The Fella have to say after weeks of Ludwig Kaiser running him down?

WWE remembers the fallen today on Memorial Day.

“Home of the Free Because of the Brave.” – Unknown

“What does it mean to be selfless? To have the courage to put all else first for a greater cause? In every generation, there are those who put everything before themselves. And on this day, we honor them. The men and women who fought for our freedom. From the first World War to Desert Storm. From Normandy to Afghanistan. Today, we look back at the moments that define our history. The struggles, their battles. Today, we show our gratitude to those who shaped us, who guided us, who ensured our values would live forever. Today, we show reverence and respect. Today, we say ‘Thank you.'”

Sheamus heads to the ring!

Savannah, Georgia fires up as The Fella makes his way out. Sheamus gets the mic to say, “I’m out of breath walking out here! Savannah, what’s the crack? Oh man, I’m amped up just listening to all of you. How ’bout that King of the Ring, huh? Did you enjoy King of the Ring? Great matches, right? Great matches! Nothing but banger after banger, after banger!” The fans take it from there, “AFTER BANGER!” But sadly, no Sheamus. The fans boo but Sheamus says it’s because of that little lap dog, Kaiser, smashed Sheamus’ knee! The fans boo more but Sheamus says he’s not bitter. That’s the name of the game.

But what Sheamus is salty about is that Gunther’s glorified coatrack did nothing but talk trash on Sheamus while Sheamus was waiting to get cleared. But here’s a word for that court jester! Sheamus is back, fella! And he can’t wait to get his hands on that pigeon chest of- Kaiser says hi from the tron! Can Sheamus even see with those old peepers? Kaiser is here, great to see him. Kaiser heard Sheamus crying and complaining like always, and blaming Kaiser for his loss during King of the Ring. Blame Gunther, because Gunther is YOUR King of the Ring, and no one ever stood a chance anyway! Especially not Sheamus.

Y’know, after weeks of hiding at home, acting tough online as a Keyboard Warrior, Sheamus is here trying ot tell Kaiser what to do? You don’t tell Imperium what to do! Kaiser operates- OH JUST SHUT YOUR BLEEDIN’ MOUTH! But hey, should Sheamus listen to this? The fans say no! So Sheamus should go get him? The fans say yes! Sheamus storms back out of the ring, back up the ramp, and back to the backstage area! The camera follows him, Sheamus busts through gorilla to then look for Mr. GQ. The fans cheer Sheamus on but Kaiser AMBUSHES Sheamus! They brawl around and end up back by the stage!

Sheamus turns things around and sends Kaiser out! They brawl by the crowd and the fans fire up! Refs rush in to stop this, as do producers and Pearce himself! These two are separated but the fans want to “LET THEM FIGHT! LET THEM FIGHT!” The Celtic Warrior and Impeccable German will have to settle this some time, so when and where will it happen?

Becky Lynch talks with Lyra Valkyria backstage.

The Man sits with The Morrigan. Saturday didn’t go either of their way. But it isn’t about winning all the time, but about getting better. So lose and learn, win and learn more, until it’s time to walk away. Becky fist bumps Lyra and says they’ve got this. Becky heads out, Lyra is reencouraged, and just in time as Lyra has the Pirate Princess up next! Will the luck of the Irish turn back around tonight?

Lyra Valkyria VS Kairi Sane w/ Dakota Kai!

Raw returns and Lyra makes her entrance. Naturally, Lyra’s ribs are still sore from Nia Jax literally falling on her on Saturday, the tape makes for obvious targets. The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, Kairi kicks but Lyra blocks! Lyra spins Kairi, waistlocks and SLAMS, then holds on. Kairi fights the waistlock, switches, but Lyra elbows free. Kairi staggers, Lyra SOBATS, KICKS and RAMS into Kairi! Kick and ENZIGIRI! Kairi falls and Lyra grimaces from the rib pain. Lyra drags Kairi up, reels her in, and NORTHERN LIGHTS! Bridging cover, TWO! Lyra grits her teeth, goes up the corner, but Kairi trips her up!

Lyra hits ropes then flops to the mat! Kairi soaks up heat, KICKS Lyra around, then KICKS her again! Kairi AX KICKS Lyra to a corner, then laughs. Kairi brings Lyra up, but Lyra RAMS into her! And again! And then fires forearms! Kairi gives those back, ROCKS Lyra, then fires boxing elbows! The ref counts as they’re against ropes, but Kairi lets off, to URAKEN! Lyra sits down, Kairi stomps along, then runs back to SLIDING D! Kairi stomps Lyra on the apron, then goes up to DOUBLE STOMP! Lyra sputters, Dakota is enjoying this, and Kairi smiles as she steps back inside. Cover, TWO! Lyra toughs it out but Kairi goes up a corner.

Kairi watches Lyra rise up, but Lyra ROCKS her first! Lyra climbs up but Kairi CLUBS Lyra! Lyra still climbs, CLUBS Kairi in return, but Kairi puts Lyra in the Tree of Woe! Kairi adjusts, aims, and WOE STOMPS! Cover, TWO!! Lyra survives and Kairi is furious! Kairi drags Lyra up, CLUBS her, then drags her back up. The fans rally for Lyra but Lyra is a ragdoll right now. Kairi puts her in the drop zone, goes up top, and IN-SANE ELBOWS into BOOTS! Lyra hurries to OKLAHOMA ROLL! LYRA WINS!!!

Winner: Lyra Valkyria, by pinfall

Dakota rushes in but Lyra gets away! The Morrigan snatches victory from the jaws of defeat, will she still find her way to the top of the Women’s Division?

Judgment Day regroups.

Priest sees Finn & Carlito, but where is JD? And wait, what is Carlito doing here anyway? What? They were to meet at the clubhouse. No, Priest said Judgment Day would meet, Carlito is not Judgment Day. And doesn’t he have a match to get ready for? Oh, right. They’ll be out there with him, right? Priest has no response but he does ask Finn where Dom even is. Finn says he’ll catch up with Carlito. Carlito leaves, and Finn says he has no idea where Dom is right now. JD makes it back in, Carlito says he found him! Priest asks JD where he’s been and JD says he’s been chased all night. But JD gave him the slip.

Oh, gave him the slip, huh? Is this something Priest has to handle now? Is it because JD is too busy talking to Liv? Okay, yes, they saw what they saw but they didn’t hear what he was saying. He told Liv that she won’t be Women’s World Champion for very long. Oh? Well, she wouldn’t be champ at all if not for Dom! Speak of the devil. Dom is here, Priest wants the room. JD & Finn head out, and Priest asks Dom what’s going on. Dom says he knows he messed up- Yes, he did, big time. Did he talk to Rhea? Yes, she knows he was just trying to help. He’ll fix it. Oh, he better, and tonight.

Priest says if Dom doesn’t, well, he wouldn’t wanna be in Dom’s shoes. Will Dirty Dom clean up the mess he made before Mami comes back?

Iyo Sky watches backsatge.

And she’s disappointed to say the least. Dakota & Kairi walk in, and Iyo throws a fit! Iyo asks what the hecc, then storms out of there. Kairi is stunned, Dakota shakes her head. They let The Evil Genius have her space, but what will it take for DMG CTRL to take control of Raw?

Carlito VS Rey Mysterio w/ The LWO!

Caribbean Cool cowardly turned on The LWO but now there’s no running from what he’s done! Will Carlito get what’s coming to him? Or can he get one over on the King of Lucha?

Raw returns and Carlito makes his entrance. He’s alone, if only for now. The bell rings and Rey throws his shirt at Carlito! They circle, the fans rally for Rey, but Carlito bails out. The fans boo, but Dragon won’t let Carlito leave. Rey then ROCKS Carlito with forearm after forearm! Rey puts Carlito in, but Carlito knees low! Carlito has Rey in a corner, whips corner to corner hard, and Rey falls over. Carlito soaks up the heat, then drags Rey up. Carlito whips Rey to a corner hard again, then scoops for a BACKBREAKER! Rey writhes, Carlito covers, ONE! Rey is still tough but Carlito ROCKS and whips him!

Rey KICKS Carlito back, then springboards to QUEBRADA! Carlito catches Rey, to RAM him into a corner! Carlito puts Rey in the Tree of Woe, then backs up, to DROPKICK! Rey is still stuck in the Tree, so Carlito goes to the far corner. The fans boo but Carlito runs back in, only for Rey to sit up! Carlito slides right into the POST, hitting him right in the apple tree! The fans cheer as Rey is free of the Tree and Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Rey fights against a facelock! Rey ROCKS Carlito, runs, but Carlito swings. Rey ducks ‘n’ dodges, but Carlito CLOBBERS him! Cover, TWO! Carlito is frustrated but he drags Rey up. Carlito CLUBS Rey, fires off in a corner with haymakers, but the ref counts. Carlito lets off, whips corner to corner, then runs up, but into BOOTS! Rey runs up, rolls, but into an OVERBOMB! Rey flounders to the apron but Carlito goes to the corner. Carlito climbs, brings Rey up, and deadlift SUPERPLEXES! Cover, TWO! Carlito rains down fists on Rey while the fans boo. Carlito lets off, drags Rey up, and puts him in a corner.

Carlito hoists Rey up again, the fans rally, but Carlito climbs. Rey fights the superplex this time, and he throws body shots! Rey CLUBS Carlito, CLUBS him again, and then HEADBUTTS Carlito down! Rey leaps to SEATED SENTON! Then the LIONSAULT! Cover, TWO! Carlito is still in this but Rey keeps cool. Rey whips Carlito, Carlito reverses but Rey ducks ‘n’ dodges to CROSSBODY! Carlito catches Rey, pops him up, and spins for the T K O! Cover, TWO! Rey is still in this and Carlito grows frustrated. Carlito drags Rey up, scoops again, but Rey slips fere! Rey DROPKICKS Carlito onto ropes! Rey dials it up, 61- NO, Carlito puts Rey on the apron!

Rey ROCKS Carlito back, slingshots, but into a DROPKICK! Rey hits the apron and Carlito goes out after him. Carlito drags Rey up, stares Dragon down, then fireman’s carries Rey. But Rey fights free! Rey POSTS Carlito! Carlito flounders in, but FINN CLOBBERS DRAGON!! The fans boo as Finn TOSESS Dragon over the desk! Rey SEATED SENTONS Finn! The fans fire up and Rey goes up, to GAMANGIRI Carlito! Rey slides under, waistlocks, but Carlito elbows him away! Carlito gets Rey but Rey drops to somersault! Carlito smothers that, wheelbarrows, but Rey sends him onto ropes! Redial and 619!! Rey then SPLASHES down, covers, Rey wins!!

Winner: Rey Mysterio, by pinfall

The LWO celebrates together as they come out on top, even with Judgment Day trying to help Carlito! Speaking of, Rey goes out after Finn to fire forearms! Rey SMACKS Finn off the desk! Rey then has Dragon go up while he positions Finn just right! The fans fire up as The Boy Wonder climbs, but then PRIEST ATTACKS REY! Carlito drags Dragon down for APPLE SPIT! Priest gets in, gets Dragon in the crucifix, for the RAZOR’S EDGE! The fans boo but Rey gets up to DROPKICK Priest onto ropes! Rey dials it up, but he has to BLAST Finn first! Rey runs up, but into a SUPERKICK! The fans boo as Priest stands over Rey.

Priest drags Rey up, to send him SOUTH OF HEAVEN!! The fans boo but The Punisher just handled everyone’s business. Will Priest prove that Judgment Day is nothing without him?

Chad Gable scowls at Akira Tozawa backstage.

He says he didn’t see Tozawa in Saudi. Couldn’t make the trip? They could’ve used his help out there. Then Gable lost. It must’ve been a good reason for not making it, huh> Tozawa apologizes but Gable says no need, he’s not mad. He’s just disappointed. But then Braun is looking for JD! They seen him? No. Braun storms off again, and then Otis & Maxxine walk in. Aw, look, it’s Goldilocks and her three braincells! Now look, don’t even think about going out there, this ain’t a fashion show. And as for Otis, Gable would be champion if not for Otis. But out of the kindness of Gable’s heart, he’s giving Otis a second chance by taking on Bronson Reed, so don’t screw it up!

Otis is gonna beat Bronson, right? Right. No, no, no. Say it. “No matter what.” Gable says let’s go. Master Gable leads his Number One Guy, but is The Academy still going to stick around such toxicity?

Otis w/ Chad Gable VS Bronson Reed!

Gable may have a point about Otis messing things up for him, but Otis also ruined things for the Colossal Aussie. Is Bronson going to be the one redeeming himself when he washes the tree trunk away with a Tsunami?

Raw returns and Otis makes his entrance, Gable berating him the whole way. The bell rings and Bronson CLOBBERS Otis! Otis was too busy being reprimanded by Gable! Bronson fires off hands, HEADBUTTS Otis, then talks trash. Bronson whips, and he CLOBBERS Otis again! Gable is upset already and Bronson says it’s all Otis’ fault. Bronson brings Otis up, POSTS him, and Otis tumbles to the floor! Gable tells Otis to get up, the ring count climbs, but Bronson says count him out! Gable tells Otis that for once in his life, do what Gable says! The count is 7 of 10, but Otis gets in at 8. Only for Bronson to SHOTGUN!

Bronson looms over Otis, he talks more trash, then he whips Otis to a corner. Otis stops himself to ELBOW Bronson, then LARIAT! The fans rally up for Otis, Gable says get going already. Otis rises, he CLUBS Bronson from all sides! Otis WRECKER ELBOWS then whips! Bronson reverses, Otis ducks ‘n’ dodges to CROSSBODY! He bounces off the impact?! The fans are thunderous but Gable says stay focused! Otis scoops to SLAM Bronson! Bronson is down, Otis runs up to SPLASH! Bronson falls, and the fans wanna see it! Otis swivels them hips! Otis thrusts and shakes, but Gable says NO! Don’t do it! The fans boo while Otis feels down.

Otis STILL RIPS OFF THE SHIRT! Otis shakes and shimmies, Gable says no, just LISTEN to him! Do this the right way! But Bronson SUPERKICKS Otis down! And SENTONS! Gable is upset again as Bronson climbs up, and TSUNAMI!! Cover, Bronson wins!

Winner: Bronson Reed, by pinfall

Otis may have been why Gable lost on Saturday, but Gable’s why Otis lost here! Gable refuses to see it that way, and shouts at Otis, “Where do you think you’re going? Get back in this ring right now!” He wants the Academy all to get out here so they can take care of this! Gable says he has had enough. Maxxine and Tozawa sheepishly walk out to the ring, and Otis steps in to join Gable. What is Gable going to yell at them now? We’ll find out, after the break.

Raw returns with the Alpha Academy all in the ring.

Gable scowls as he has his students lined up. Gable tells Otis, “What am I going to do with you? I mean, not only did you cost me my Intercontinental Championship on Saturday in Saudi Arabia, but I give you a chance tonight to redeem yourself, and you blew it. I’m racking my brain all day long, trying to think what it’s gonna take to get through to you, and I think I got it. You lack discipline, Otis. So tonight, I’m gonna show you discipline. And I’m gonna show you discipline in front of everybody here.” Gable tells Otis that he doesn’t wanna do this, but Otis made him do this. He’s taking off his belt!?

Gable tells Otis to grab a rope. Otis isn’t so sure but Gable tells him to grab a rope. The fans boo and tell Otis not to, but Otis steps forward. Otis looks back at Gable but Gable tells the others to watch. This is what happens when you bring shame to the Academy! Otis grabs the ropes, and Gable tells him that this hurts Gable a lot more than it hurts Otis. That age old lie, huh? Gable winds up, but Maxxine stops him! The fans cheer and Gable is seething! Gable asks what’s the matter. This too miuch for her? She gonna cry? Did this hurt her feelings? Then get the hell out of the ring! NOW! GO! ANd don’t come back!

What about Tozawa? He got something to say? Say it! Din’t think so! Now stand ther eand watch! But wait! Here comes Sami! The fans cheer while Sami makes sure Maxxine is okay. Gable tells the production guys to turn that crappy music off! And unless Sami is here to give Gable that title, he should just turn around. This is Academy business, keep out of it! Sami storms into the ring, Gable says this is his last warning. Don’t take another step in! The fans cheer Sami on, and Sami steps inside! Sami has a mic to tell Gable, “What’re you gonna do, Chad, huh? You think you’re pretty tough, huh? You’re not. You are a weak little man.”

The fans cheer while Gable frowns. Sami says Gable has manipulated his way into opportunity after opportunity and yet every single time, he came up short! And then he looked to everyone else to blame! The fans, Sami, the Academy, but newsflash, it is no one’s fault, certainly not Otis’! In the end, it is Gable who can’t get the job done! Gable tells Sami that he doesn’t know what he’s talking about! He can get the job done! Did last week in the ring! And would have in Saturday if not for that idiot, Otis! So now he gets the discipline! Sami SNATCHES the leather belt from Gable! And the fans want Sami to discipline Gable!

Sami throws the leather belt aside, puts his championship belt down, but then Otis steps between him and Gable? Sami asks what Otis is gonna do. Is he gonna listen to Gable? How much more abuse is Otis gonna take? Sami said to stop listening to Gable and start listening to the fans! Listen to them! LISTEN! You hear that? Gable says to not listen to the fans but Otis is feeling that energy. And Sami says if Otis can’t hear the fans, listen to his heart! He knows what the right thing to do is! Gable CLOBBERS Sami! The fans boo as Gable bumps Sami off buckles, then fires off hands! Sami hits back! And he TACKLDES Gable!

Otis and Tozawa don’t know what to do, but Otis gets Sami away from Gable! The fans boo but Sami asks what is Otis doing! This is Otis’ chance to break free! But then Gable GERMAN SUPLEXES Sami down! Gable throws off his jacket, rolls up his sleeves, and tells his guys to shut up and watch. Gable rains down fists on Sami but the fans chant “YOU SUCK! YOU SUCK!” Gable keeps on punching Sami, and says he is taking that title! Otis is torn, the fans tell him to fight back! Gable looms over Sami, then picks up the Intercontinental Championship. The fans chant “Let’s Go, Otis!” but Gable says no, Otis, they’re leaving.

Tozawa leaves with Gable but Otis lingers. Gable says hey, what’s going on? Let’s go! Otis listens to Gable, and fans boo. How long will Otis stay under Gable’s thumb instead of listen to his heart?

Backstage interview with Shayna Baszler & Zoey Stark.

Cathy Kelley is with The Queen of Spades and The Hunter and notes they are the #1 contenders to the Women’s Tag Team Championships. Do they feel confident knowing that it is Bianca Belair & Jade Cargill they will be facing for those titles? Shayna said from day one, it doesn’t matter who won, everyone has the same limbs and they all break the same way. Zoey says they know for a fact that they can win. Though, they’ve also never been properly introduced. So how about they invite Jade & Bianca to Raw so they know just who they’re facing? But then Sonya Deville walks over. They’re talking like they’re champions already even though they’re not.

Sonya has them calm down, because they will be. But not without help. Zoey says wow, like they haven’t beaten everyone on Raw already. Shayna is a THREE-TIME Women’s Tag Team Champion, and held the NXT Women’s Championship more days than anyone! So she suggests Sonya walk away, unless she wants to go through ACL rehab again. Sonya says she respects their accomplishments, she just doesn’t think the locker room does. The contenders head out, and then Alba Fyre & Isla Dawn walk in. Fyre asks if Shayna & Zoey said they’ve beaten every team there is to beat. Correct her if she’s wrong, but they’ve never beaten Fyre & Dawn.

Dawn agrees, she is wracking her brain but can’t recall. And if they ever do meet in the ring, that fact won’t change. The wicked witches leave and Sonya says that proves her point. Zoey is starting to see things Sonya’s way but Shayna isn’t having it. Will the Hunter and Submission Magician just have to whoop some witches to prepare for the champions?

WWE Women’s World Championship Steel Cage Match: Liv Morgan VS Becky Lynch!

As Liv said herself, she had eight months to self-reflect and examine, but all she could think about was revenge. The Liv Morgan Revenge Tour took Rhea Ripley out, freed up the world title, and though The Man won it in a battle royal, we just saw Liv take it from her on Saturday. Liv is finally back on top, but can she stay there? Or will her first defense also be her last?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who survives the rage in the cage, after the break!

Raw returns and Liv kicks Becky into the steel! Liv brings Becky around, GRINDS Becky’s face into the steel, then brings her back around to THROW into the steel! Liv stomps away on Becky, smears her face into the steel again, and says “Hi, Rhea!” Liv lets off, climbs a corner, and then the cage! But Becky hurries after her! The fans fire upas  Becky grabs a leg! Becky brings Liv back down from the top, but Liv ELBOWS Becky! Liv SMACKS Becky off steel, and again! And again! And again and again and again! Liv throws Becky down, then storms after her. Liv brings Becky up, but Becky fires body shots!

Liv knees low, whips, but Becky reverses. Becky runs in at the corner, but Liv puts her in the gap. Becky ROCKS Liv, goes up the corner, but Liv trips her up! Liv pushes Becky into the Tree of Woe, to stomp away against the steel! The fans are torn as Liv then dumps Becky down the other side! Becky crawls, Liv grins as she brings Becky up. Liv runs up to SHOTGUN Becky into the steel! And then she SHOTGUNS again! And again! Liv RAMS into Becky over and over, then runs side to side, only for Becky to dodge! Liv hits steel head first, then Becky KICKS, SMACKS, repeat! Becky just fires off on Liv again and again and again!

Becky dribbles Liv’s head off steel and the fans fire up! Liv flops back, Becky goes up a corner! Liv stands, into the MISSILE DROPKICK! Becky crawls to cover, TWO! Becky is annoyed, but she runs side to side to WRECK Liv with a dropkick! Then she runs to WRECK Liv again! Becky drags Liv up through ropes, UPPERCUTS, SOBATS and she goes up the corner. GUILLOTINE- NO, Liv avoids the leg drop, and she FLAPJACKS Becky into steel! Becky flops back, the fans rally up, but Raw goes to break.

Raw returns once more and Liv crawls to a corner, Becky down in a drop zone. But Liv just wants to go up and out of the cage! Becky rises and grabs at legs again! Liv hurries but Becky still catches up to her! Becky drags Liv back down, fires forearms and haymakers but Liv KICKS Becky away! Becky returns and CLUBS away on Liv! SUPERPLEX! Both women are down and Liv writhes. Becky crawls to a cover, TWO! Liv stays in this but Becky goes for the arm! DISARM-HER, in fact! But Liv RAMS Becky into steel! Becky flops against ropes, Liv runs up to springboard and CODE BREAKER! Cover, TWO!

Liv is frustrated and she goes back to a corner. Liv climbs again, but Becky revives! Becky hurries up and they both reach the top! Liv and Becky brawl, then Becky SMACKS Liv off the top! And SMACKS her again! Liv goes to the inside, then the mat, and Becky has a choice. Climb down or go after Liv? Liv drags Becky in, making her choice for her! Liv then gets under Becky for a POWERBOMB! High stack, TWO!! Both women are down and the fans rally up. Liv runs up on Becky, but no ObLivion here! Becky has an ELEVATED DISARM-HER!! Liv can only suffer, so she SHOVES Becky into steel! Liv clutches her arm and grits her teeth as she goes back for a corner.

Liv climbs, Becky hurries after her again! SUPER RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP! Both women are down again, Becky manages the cover, TWO!! Liv is still in this, and now DOM is here!? Is he really trying this again!? Well, Priest did tell him to handle this, so Dom opens the door! He calls to Becky so she can get outta there! Becky is confused, and now even Finn & JD are here asking what’s this about. Liv ENZIGIRIS Becky! Dom says no, they gotta make this right for what happened! JD & Finn say fine. But then BRAUN is here!! He’s found JD and Becky keeps Liv from the door! Judgment Day is really in for it now!

Braun chases JD & Finn, they go around, and Braun BLASTS Dom into the door, AND IT HITS BECKY!! What awful luck! Liv hurries, the cage door opens, and Liv falls to the floor! LIV WINS!!

Winner: Liv Morgan, by escape (still WWE Women’s World Champion)

Well, so much for beating Becky all by herself. But a win is a win is a win, but then Liv and Dom lock eyes on the ramp. Is the Liv Morgan Revenge Tour far from done with Judgment Day? Or is that the other way around?

After Raw goes off the air…

LIV KISSES DOM!? What in the world is she doing?! Is this some kinda way to thank him?

My Thoughts:

A great Raw to follow King & Queen of the Ring, and more great intertwining of stories. Great transition from Gunther celebrating his becoming King of the Ring to having Priest and McIntyre out there to talk Clash at the Castle. It’s wild how everyone McIntyre has promo battles with always get the better of him. I really hope McIntyre wins in Glasgow, if only because of how Judgment Day is falling apart, just as we saw all night. Ironically, Priest is the only capable one anymore, as of course Braun beat JD and as Rey pulled out the win on Carlito. And then there’s the intrigue of JD talking with Liv, and we’ve seen Finn talking with Liv before…

All of that combined with them being conflicted about Liv is interesting stuff. While cage matches with escape as a possibility are boring, as proven by tonight and how the crowd was falling asleep in the middle, it was also obvious there would be shenanigans. Though it was really clever how Braun sends Dom into the door and then the door hits Becky. And then what a shocker that Liv kisses Dom! Maybe the jokes of Liv VS Rhea for the “custody” of Dom aren’t so farfetched. And even then, maybe we end up with Judgment Day splitting to where JD & Finn side with Liv while Priest & Dom stay loyal to Rhea? Mixed Six before some big title matches? That would be a pretty wild feud.

On the flipside, Becky lost again, but then Lyra got back up with a win after a really good match with Kairi. Iyo Sky throwing a fit over her loss and Kairi’s loss was some good stuff, shows the frustration over how far Damage CTRL has fallen since WrestleMania and the Draft. While the Women’s World Championship is tied up with Liv and Rhea, maybe new teams can get going in the Women’s Tag Division. Good promo form Shayna & Zoey with Sonya as well as Fyre & Dawn. Shayna & Zoey VS Fyre & Dawn will be really good, there’s a chance Sonya gets involved to help them, and hopefully Bianca & Jade are traveling champions showing up on Raw every so often.

Great promo with Awesome Truth, New Day and Kross, and Kross attempting to break New Day up was a pretty obvious move. AOP got a good win over the Creed Brothers, though of course with distraction from Scarlett. There’s a chance there’s distraction tactics during AOP VS New Day, this definitely won’t be a one and done. And great stuff in this developing Bron Breakker story. Ricochet VS Dragunov was a great match, especially for Ricochet selling bad ribs. And I knew that Pearce saying Bron wasn’t gonna show up meant he was definitely showing up. I know it’s just a social media belt, but Bron should totally win the Speed title off Ricochet because he is known for the flat out running speed.

And then equally great stuff from this on going Alpha Academy story. Gable is being just so mean, and yet that keeps us hooked on what’s happening next. I figured Gable would mess Otis up and Bronson would win, helping him move on, but I was a little surprised Gable was ready to whip Otis with his belt. Sami of course made the save as it were, only for it to of course not get through to Otis just yet. That moment is coming, and we’re all gonna go nuts when Otis finally stands up to Gable. Not sure if Gable is gonna win the Intercontinental Championship, and I still want Bronson Reed to get something of his own, but I’m not sure Clash at the Castle is where Sami loses. And then Money in the Bank is in Canada, Sami can’t lose there cuz he’s Canadian! Maybe SummerSlam?

My Score: 8.8/10