The January RAW Report Card!
The Kingfish Arnie Katz walks by night and knows the secrets denied to ordinary men. He also has his January report card for the good folks at WWE’s RAW.
WWE is coming off a highly successful Royal Rumble and heading to WrestleMania with a short stop at No Way Out.
Let’s take a close look at how the show is doing in key areas:
Talent Pool
Despite the loss of Booker T and the (apparent) loss of Lashley, RAW has improved in terms of talent with the returns of Triple H and Chris Jericho and, more recently, John Cena. All three can work on the mic and in the ring at the highest level, which is a big plus for a show that was in need of stars.
The tag team division is a mess. They need to build a roster of competitive teams and then give them a chance to work and also have some interview time. The raw talent is there, but it isn’t being used very well.
WWE has turned over its female contingent pretty thoroughly. There may not yet be a Trish Stratus or a new Torrie Wilson, but several of the newer recruits, such as Maria and Candice Michael, are developing some significant fan appeal.
Grade: B
In-Ring Action
RAW is better than it was about four months ago when a two-hour card might have one watchable match.. There are still a few guys whose presence in a match guarantees an uninteresting performance, but the workers at the top of the show – Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Randy Orton, John Cena, Chris Jericho, Mr. Kennedy, Jeff Hardy and Umaga – almost always have exciting matches.
Grade: B
Dramatics
The most compelling storyline in a long time seems to have taken WWE and RAW completely by surprise. Hot interviews and intense interplay between the two combatants has made for gripping television. It may be a mistake to pull Orton away for the feud with Cena.
They cut down on the backstage dramatics in the last month or so, which may not be the best strategy. WWE has often some very good theatrics in that setting,
Grade>: B
Announcing
Jim Ross continues on an even keel, still the most recognizable announcer voice in pro wrestling. Jerry Lawler has seemed a little subdued of late, but he is still good for funny one-liners and the occasional striking insight.
Grade: B+
Star Power
RAW had a severe star shortage a while back, but the current roster is more appealing. There still aren’t many who can pass the “fannies in the seats” test, but they are building up some new marquee names who may reach that category soon, like Jeff Hardy and Mr. Kennedy.
Grade: B
Overall
Royal Rumble, despite uncomfortable moments like Snuka-Piper, came across very well. They are doing everything possible to make No Way Out seem like more than an afterthought. How well they succeed will have a profound effect on the February report card.
Grade: B
– Arnie Katz
Crossfire4@cox.net
(1/39/08)
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