WWE Raw Results: Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for April 17

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Braun Strowman vs. Big Show

Result: No contest due to ring collapse

Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars

My first thought: No mention of reinforcing the ring was made like the last time these two main evented Raw – obviously the ring is going to explode.

Speaking of last time these guys main evented Raw, that match was an absolute hoss fight classic. This week, it was another great match between a pair of superheavyweights. I don’t know if I want to call what Big Show did a baseball slide or a basement dropkick, but it was unexpected and awesome.

Not to be outdone, Braun came back with an actual dropkick, and a pair of arm drags after a kip up. Both guys weigh in at 385 pounds – any time they leave their feet is a big deal.

Personally, I think the snap suplex from Strowman was more impressive than the scoop slam by Show. But not by much – either one requires a ton of strength.

You can say what you want about workrate, rest holds, and the like – this match was made better by the long pauses between certain moves. This was like a battle of the titans, where any move could be the last. Because of that, you need to plan your attack wisely – and resting in between is a must.

Plus, you gotta be rested for when the ring finally explodes.

It’s always a great spot, but quite frankly, the Columbus crowd didn’t deserve it. They sat on their hands all night and were dead silent. But watching referee John Cone literally bounce out of the ring was great – that’s what you get for trying to throw Braun out earlier in the night!

Related Story: WWE Rumor: Braun Strowman vs. Brock Lesnar Happening?

What did you think about this week’s episode of Raw?