WWE Raw Results: Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for September 4

WWE Raw (Source: WWE.com via Twitter)

John Cena vs. Jason Jordan

Result: John Cena defeated Jason Jordan via pinfall

Rating: 3.0 out of 5 stars

After a lengthy recap of the Reigns/Cena showdown last week, Big Match John made his way to the ring for a Not So Big Match against Jason Jordan. Correlations were made to Cena’s debut match 15 years ago against Jordan’s dad, Kurt Angle. It’s Jordan’s big chance tonight, according to the commentary team. Honestly, I’m just thrilled that Raw is starting with a match instead of a too-long promo.

Problem was, it was not the kind of show opening match that gets a crowd excited for what’s to come – at least early on. Jordan is a celebrated amateur wrestler, so much of his early attack was waist locks and gut wrenches. It’s a little boring, to be honest – even when it’s good, like tonight. Cena made everything Jordan did seem like it was super powerful through his facial expressions.

Going into the commercial break, Cena looked to be bringing that “ruthless aggression” he claimed to have in 2002. His whips into the turnbuckle were a little more vicious than normal. Coming back from the break, Cena still looked to be in control, but Jordan came back with a beautiful dropkick to halt the Five Moves of Doom.

The submission holds were sloppy from both competitors. Cena’s STF was better than usual, but not great. Jordan completely obliterated his crossface, but somehow he made it look like a good chinlock with the arm trapped. Good for him! But that sequence led to incredible rolling northern lights suplexes from Jordan, but Super Cena kicked out. A great reversal sequence led to Cena finally hitting the AA for a victory in a terrific match for both men.

After the match, Roman Reigns made his way down to the ring to confront Cena.