WWE Raw Results: Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for October 23

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Asuka vs. Emma

Result: Asuka defeated Emma via submission

Rating: 2.75 out of 5 stars

Corey Graves is out there bending over backwards trying to put over Asuka. He’s getting a bit of help from Michael Cole and Booker T, but he’s doing the lion’s share of the work trying to get the general main roster audience to appreciate the unique talent she is.

Emma had requested this match during TLC, as seen on WWE’s YouTube channel. It’s very, very similar to the TLC match, as well. Emma spent a good portion of that match in control, and the same thing happened here on Raw. So many people are of the impression that Asuka dominated in NXT by never having to work from behind. But while she was undefeated, it was because she could work from behind.

But Asuka’s eventual comeback here was, again, very similar to last night. Lots of strikes from out of almost nowhere, quick attacks, and a big submission to end the contest. The Asuka Lock is going to be a move akin to Samoa Joe’s Coquina Clutch – it’s going to be seen as a devastating hold that can be escaped, but it’s nearly impossible to do so.

My only concern here is that Asuka had basically the same match as she did at TLC with no forward momentum. No one came out to claim they are ready for Asuka. The Empress of Tomorrow didn’t issue any challenges to other superstars. So where does she go from here?