WWE Raw Results: Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for April 17
By Bryan Heaton
What Contest Did Apollo Lose?
In an effort to be a glass half full kind of guy, I want to point out that seeing Akira Tozawa and Apollo Crews interacting on Raw is kind of wonderful. We could all use a little more Dragon Gate in our lives.
"Somebody wants to go on a family vacation or spring break, they can hop aboard the Apollo CRUISE..." - @TitusONeil to @ApolloCrews #Raw pic.twitter.com/TtniaRFr8G
— WWE (@WWE) April 18, 2017
But then Titus O’Neil had to come in and make it a win ruin everything. He gets props for his wordplay skills – always a fan of terrible puns and the like. But if coming to Raw is going to rehab Crews, the dad-to-be shouldn’t be interacting with Titus.
A Wonderful Hardy Segment
The sooner WWE sics their lawyers on TNA, the better. It’s painfully obvious that Matt really really really wants to do the whole Broken deal. He still can’t (or won’t) fully drop the voice – I heard that “evah” popping through. And he hasn’t undyed his hair yet, either.
The team of @WWECesaro & @WWESheamus want to continue "welcoming" #RAW #TagTeamChampions @JEFFHARDYBRAND & @MATTHARDYBRAND! pic.twitter.com/ENLzfOA5Iv
— WWE (@WWE) April 18, 2017
On paper, I’m really looking forward to this Hardyz/Cesaro & Sheamus feud. No true heels, so it’s already got a little bit of an advantage in the rarity division. Plus, Cesaro is one of the best workers in the company, Sheamus is a hoss, and the Hardyz are in the midst of a nice resurgence and nostalgia run.
In practice, I’m afraid it’s going to be a dud. Without being Broken, the Hardy Boyz are a dull promo. Cesaro and Sheamus can talk, but they aren’t really known for it. If all of their non-wrestling segments are like this one, it’s going to be a long two weeks.