Roman Reigns' biggest enemy returns; John Cena sells dreams - 5 Things WWE subtly told us on RAW
The latest episode of WWE RAW marked a pivotal moment as the red brand moved to Netflix, marking a new era for the company. The star-studded affair boasted equally stitched match cards that crowned new champions, seemingly ended feuds, and teased the expectations for WrestleMania season.
Triple H's booking decisions obviously took new viewers—many of whom were returning fans—into consideration. Still, he did enough to send important messages to those who follow the product. Here, we will look at the five things WWE subtly revealed on RAW's debut episode on Netflix. So, without further ado, let's begin:
#5. The Rock takes a back seat
The Rock left Cody Rhodes with a secret message when he appeared at WWE Bad Blood 2024, visibly putting the world champion on notice. The Great One previously announced that he would be present during RAW's Netflix debut. However, the Hollywood star stunned the viewers with an unexpected face turn last night.
The People's Champion walked out to a thunderous pop and made his way to the ring. He later hugged Cody Rhodes, who was seated at ringside with other SmackDown stars. The Rock also acknowledged Roman Reigns following the OTC's win against Solo Sikoa and acknowledged the 39-year-old as his Tribal Chief instead of interfering in the match or confronting the winner, as many expected.
Unless The Rock has a sneaky betrayal planned for later episodes, WWE may have hinted at the celebrated megastar potentially taking a backseat. Reports suggest he wants John Cena's Farewell Tour to be the company's biggest priority this year. Thus, we may not see The Final Boss work WrestleMania 41. Instead, the creative team may involve him in a swerve on The Grandest Stage of Them All.
#4. Rhea Ripley to finally move on?
Last year, one of the biggest feuds on the red brand saw a brutal, storied rivalry unfold between Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan. While their feud extensively revolved around Dominik Mysterio, the history between both superstars reached beyond romantic interest.
The latest episode of WWE RAW saw Liv Morgan put her Women's World Championship on the line against Mami. A memorable bout between the two ended with the title changing hands, as The Eradicator pinned The Miracle Kid to reclaim the gold.
WWE had previously hinted that the creative team is intent on bringing their rivalry to an end. With Ripley regaining the Women's World Championship, we will likely see her move on to new challenges, whereas Morgan may have demons to fight as cracks within The Judgment Day become prominent again.
#3. Roman Reigns becomes the undisputed Tribal Chief
Roman Reigns locked horns with Solo Sikoa in a highly awaited Tribal Combat to kickstart WWE RAW's debut show on Netflix. Members of the old and new Bloodline made their customary interferences, but none could help their respective "Tribal Chief" pick up a victory.
However, the dramatic bout ended with Roman Reigns ultimately pinning Solo Sikoa to establish his undisputed dominance as The Head of The Table. The match and its subsequent result hinted at this storyline between the two stars hitting a pause.
The Rock marching down to the ring and taking the Ula Fala from Paul Heyman to put it around Reigns' neck accounted for a surreal moment. With The Great One calling himself High Chief Seiuli, the two superstars are bound to clash down the road. However, Triple H has seemingly decided to delay their inevitable feud for now.
#2. Kevin Owens returns to haunt Roman Reigns and the OG Bloodline
It is worth noting that the interference in the Tribal Combat didn't just come from the Bloodline members. In the match's closing moments, Kevin Owens made a surprise appearance and hit Roman Reigns with his signature Stunner, allowing Solo Sikoa to capitalize. However, The Street Champ failed, and Cody Rhodes walked out to deny KO.
Although the spot primarily helped draw attention to the feud between Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens, it originated from The Prizefighter's deep-rooted hatred for Roman Reigns and the OG Bloodline.
It is clear that Kevin Owens won't leave any opportunity to do things against the OTC. KO's latest antics hinted at him eventually targeting the OG Bloodline again, and this time, he will see his best friend Sami Zayn back on Roman's side, eventually leading to an intense personal feud.
#1. John Cena reveals his goals for his Retirement Tour on WWE RAW
The historic episode of WWE RAW marked the beginning of John Cena's Farewell Tour. One of the greatest to ever step inside the squared circle has announced that he is ready for his final dance and confirmed that he intends to revisit every place that saw him script an envious career.
Fans are desperate to see John Cena win his record-breaking 17th world championship or the Intercontinental Title to become a Grand Slam Champion. Many fans who grew up watching The Franchise Player's legendary career wish to see him win both.
John Cena made it clear that he was back inside the ring to compete. He also set his sights on the upcoming Men's Royal Rumble Match while putting the biggest names in the locker room on notice. Evidently, this wouldn't be a Farewell Tour of a WWE Superstar enjoying the intricacies of the business one last time. Instead, Cena is set to bring back some of his most iconic work for generations of fans to enjoy and revel in one last time, even if it doesn't culminate with a piece of gold.
