WWE Raw Results: Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for January 9
By Grant Mannis
WWE.com
Big Cass vs. Jinder Mahal
Result: Big Cass wins via pinfall
Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars
With Shawn Michaels at ringside for the contest, there was little doubt that HBK was going to be involved in the result. He certainly made quite the impression, superkicking Rusev when he attempted to interfere in the match. This assist allowed Big Cass to finish off Mahal in what was a relatively easy match for the rising star. I don’t know how much longer WWE can milk this feud between these four men, but it won’t be long before the fans lose interest. Big Cass versus Rusev is the most appealing match here, so give them ample time on the next episode of RAW and let them go at it.
Neville vs. Lince Dorado
Result: Neville wins via submission
Rating: 3.25 out of 5 stars
Refusing to shake the hand of his competitor at the beginning of the contest, Neville was on the receiving end of punishment early on. It took a cheap shot to get him back in the action, but once he was in control he held it for quite some time. The self-proclaimed “King of the Cruiserweights” worked the left arm of his opponent, wearing him down and displaying his more aggressive side as of late. He eventually won the match via submission, and after the match, he locked in the Rings of Saturn again before Rich Swann made the save. Causing Neville to retreat up the ramp, a livid Swann stood told to end the segment.
After the contest, WWE highlighted Edge’s historic return and victory at the 2010 Royal Rumble match. This was one of my all-time favorite Rumbles due to his return and the story surrounding Shawn Michaels at the time, so to see Edge talk about this moment was cool to see.