WWE Raw: Results, Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for February 5

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Asuka vs. Bayley

Result: Asuka defeated Bayley via submission

Rating: 3.75 out of 5 stars

The last time I saw this match was at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn II in 2016. It was Bayley’s sort of swan song with NXT, as she would shortly make the full time transition to the main roster. For Asuka, it was just another day at the office, winning a match and extending a championship reign.

But a year and a half later, a lot of things have changed. Bayley’s character has been shot to hell, Asuka maintained her undefeated streak throughout her NXT career and thus far on Raw. The Women’s Divisions within all of WWE have grown by leaps and bounds, as well.

I can’t express how much I loved some parts of this match. Asuka used Bayley’s ponytail to grab her and bring her closer for a stiff kick. Bayley getting a chance to be in control for a bit was some good character rehab. Seeing Asuka have to start working a bit harder for her victories is a good progression for the character as well.

This wasn’t quite as good as Sasha/Asuka from last week. But it was still a great match. Bayley demonstrated her strength – you don’t see that often anymore. The quick strikes from Asuka were as crisp as lettuce, and clean as a whistle. But getting a show of respect from The Empress of Tomorrow at the end is possibly the best and worst thing for Bayley.

The best thing is how it makes her look in the eyes of the fans. If someone as good as Asuka is willing to offer a handshake to Bayley, it makes the Huggable One seem like a big deal. With how poorly she’s been written as of late, that’s huge. The worst is what it likely means for her friendship with Sasha Banks – after all, The Boss didn’t get a handshake after losing to Asuka last week, did she?