Monday Night Raw Review - July 18, 2011

Following one of greatest pay-per-views in recent memory, I must say I was a little disappointed with RAW's opening. I would have liked some footage or photos of Punk's wins, but they unfortunately "erased" it to make it seem legit. I can't say the tournament got me excited, as bringing back Punk for one last night might have been a bit more suitable for this viewer.

It's disappointing to see so many potential matches go to waste apart of a tournament in just one night. Alex Riley and The Miz could have blown their feud off on SummerSlam, but instead gave it away with little hype at the start of the show. The two heels match with R-Truth and Jack Swagger was awkward, while the fresh Mysterio and Ziggler match was too short to be anything special. I was surprised to see Del Rio lose in the first round, but it's always possible he can cash in on the winner of the tournament.

Why hold a 14-Diva tag team match if it's going to be less than a minute long? They pulled the same crap a few weeks ago, and does nothing for anyone. I'd much rather see Kelly move towards being a strong champion by finding new contenders.

I was hoping for Kingston to pull an upset over Miz, but no such luck. However, a very strong match from Mysterio and Truth, as they have great chemistry together, even if it was a predictable finish. Being the only two former champs (besides Swagger) in the tournament, a Miz vs. Mysterio match is new and refreshing, but it's a shame this whole thing was used to bring some new faces to the title picture.

The ending segment saved this show from being a snooze fest, as Mr. McMahon did an awesome job selling his frustration and emotion. Triple H's return was a great surprise, and giving him full control of the company was a nice touch. It helps keep excitement in this on-going angle, and writes McMahon off television in the process if that was the purpose, while keeping CM Punk's future with the company still open.

Overall, a surprisingly boring show, as I was expecting a much hotter fall-out show following the events that transpired at Money in the Bank. I surely hope a new WWE Champion is not crowned next week, as Miz vs. Mysterio is a match that doesn't need a title on the line to feel special. Hopefully Triple H's new reign as the head of the company will prove for more upcoming changes to the broadcast.