WWE Raw Results: Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for March 13

Austin Aries vs. Ariya Daivari

Result: Austin Aries defeated Ariya Daivari via pinfall

Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars

A victory over Tony Nese last week on 205 Live was Austin’s official return to the ring. But when it comes to Raw, if it don’t happen on Monday night, it didn’t happen. So Aries takes on Daivari in his first appearance on Raw without doing commentary.

It’s not a bad match, but in terms of in-ring action it’s a step back for the 205 Live crew. I hate to say that, because Aries is likely the most popular and well-known of the cruiserwieghts. But since this was a glorified squash match, it automatically seems less exciting than a solid back and forth affair.

The big story here is just proving that Aries is fit for action after his eye injury. So the little bit of offense Daivari can muster is eye based. Aries bounces back, nearly kills Daivari with a belly to back suplex, then hits a rolling elbow for the win.

Between the tag match earlier and the Aries victory here, there’s plenty of hype and focus for 205 Live this week. The cruiserweights have been given a spot on the WrestleMania card, and it’s hard to imagine a match besides Aries vs. Neville. Aries certainly looks ready to go based on his in-ring work so far.