WWE Raw's Netflix Premiere: Highlights and Low Points

On January 6, 2025, WWE Raw made its highly anticipated debut on Netflix, marking a transformative moment for wrestling fans. This special episode promised celebrity appearances and thrilling matches, but it also sparked considerable debate among avid viewers. Let's delve into the three things we loved and three things we hated about this momentous occasion.

What We Loved

1. The Return of The Tribal Chief

One of the most satisfying moments of the night was Roman Reigns' return as the undisputed Tribal Chief. After an intense showdown with Solo Sikoa, Reigns reclaimed his title and status, re-establishing himself in the storyline. Fans were thrilled as The Rock was on stage to officiate the return, symbolically placing the ula fala around Reigns' neck, reinforcing his place at the top of the WWE hierarchy.

2. Star-Power Overload

The episode featured an impressive lineup of WWE legends, including Hulk Hogan and John Cena. The nostalgia factor was high as these icons graced the ring, creating electric moments. Their presence perfectly captured the excitement of Raw's Netflix premiere, amplifying the overall spectacle.

3. Women’s Championship Match

The match between Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan delivered a much-needed shake-up in the Women's Division. Ripley's victory marked her return to championship glory, bringing excitement and promise for the future of women’s wrestling. Although the Last Woman Standing stipulation was removed, the match still held significant stakes for both competitors, culminating in a hard-fought victory for Ripley.

What We Hated

1. Absence of GUNTHER

Perhaps one of the most baffling decisions was the absence of GUNTHER, the reigning WWE World Heavyweight Champion, from the show. Not only did he not appear, but he was also relegated to a two-minute video package. Given the hype surrounding the debut, WWE's choice to prioritize other celebrities over their world champion felt like a massive oversight, raising concerns about his booking.

2. The Rock's Lackluster Storyline Integration

While the crowd erupted in cheers for The Rock’s return, his involvement felt disjointed within the overarching narrative. Rather than advancing plot points with fellow wrestlers like Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns, the legendary star's appearances felt more like fleeting moments rather than integral to current storylines, which diminished their impact.

3. Overemphasis on Self-Congratulatory Themes

The episode occasionally bordered on self-indulgence, with segments celebrating WWE's accomplishments, including its Netflix move. This distracted from the wrestling action and left fans wanting more focus on compelling storytelling and match quality. WWE needs to remember that while they are proud of their successes, the fans tune in primarily for the wrestling action.

Conclusion

Overall, WWE Raw's Netflix debut was an ambitious venture, blending nostalgia with modernity. With compelling storylines, filled with excitement and big names, it undeniably had its high points. However, the glaring absences and narrative missteps provided enough criticism to spark conversations among viewers. As WWE continues down this innovative path, it's vital for them to maintain focus on what brings fans to the table: compelling wrestling action and coherent storytelling.

Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis as WWE evolves!