WWE Raw review (Jan. 1): 3 takeaways

Roman Reigns remained on top

2017’s Wrestler of the Year turned in another dazzling performance on the first day of 2018. Roman Reigns quarreled with Samoa Joe with the Intercontinental Championship on the line. The difference from the last time these two faced off was a stipulation put in place. If Reigns got himself disqualified, he’d lose the coveted championship to Joe. Shout out to Joe, by the way, for cutting a scathing promo before the match.

The match between Joe and Reigns was a brilliant showing by both. The pace got a little methodical, as is the case with Joe matches in this day and age. But the final run through was outstanding. Reigns eventually overcame and prevailed after a devastating spear through Joe. Thus, Roman began 2018 as he left 2017: As Intercontinental Champion.

So goes another incredible TV match for Roman Reigns. He might as well be the “TV Champion” at this point, too. There’s hardly anybody better. And hardly anyone with the cache of great matches on television that he has. Reigns gets his fair share of hate, but the Miami crowd was as loud as they could be when he won the match, and throughout it as well. He’s the best there is right now, and he proved exactly why on Monday. Again.