In the ever-evolving world of professional wrestling, the past week has brought us some intriguing winners and losers. Let's dive into the highlights and lowlights, shall we?
The Raw Women's Division: A Troubling Trend
The WWE Raw women's division finds itself in a precarious position. The build-up to the WWE Women's World Championship match at SummerSlam, pitting champion Liv Morgan against IYO SKY, has been lackluster at best. It's a worrying trend when the women's top title match is overshadowed by male-centric storylines, like the Judgment Day vs. Danhausen comedy angle.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the contrast between the talent and the booking. WWE has an incredible roster of women wrestlers, yet the division is suffering from a lack of focus and opportunities. Last week's Raw episode had zero women's matches and no televised promos, which is simply unacceptable given the depth of talent available.
The implications are clear: WWE needs to prioritize and showcase its female talent more effectively. With only three women's matches on the SummerSlam card so far, out of a total of 12 matches, there's an urgent need for change. It's time for WWE to recognize and utilize the incredible skills of its women wrestlers, ensuring they get the spotlight they deserve.
Sami Zayn & Finn Balor: A Match Made for SummerSlam
Now, let's shift our attention to the winners of the week. Sami Zayn and Finn Balor have earned their place in the spotlight. Zayn, feeling wronged by management and CM Punk, will get another shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship, thanks to his win over Finn Balor.
Personally, I think this match-up is a stroke of genius. Balor and Zayn are two of the biggest names in WWE, and their match at SummerSlam promises to be a thrilling affair. It's a unique dynamic, with Balor returning to the top after a decade since his injury at SummerSlam 2016, and Zayn seeking redemption after a short-lived championship reign.
The match has significant stakes, and it's a win-win situation for both wrestlers. Whether Zayn wins to challenge for the title or continues his descent into madness, the story arc is compelling. For Balor, the opportunity to challenge for the title is a testament to his resilience and talent. This match is a testament to the power of simple, effective booking, and I can't wait to see how it plays out.
The Dogs: A Tale of Potential and Missteps
Moving on to the losers, we have The Dogs from AEW. This trio of David Finlay, Clark Connors, and Gabe Kidd has the potential to be a staple in AEW, but their run so far has been disappointing. Their match at AEW Redemption 2026 against The Bang Bang Gang was underwhelming, and they needed help from the Death Riders' young boys to secure the win.
What many people don't realize is that The Dogs have a wealth of experience in New Japan Pro Wrestling. Each member brings unique skills and a strong background to the table. However, their current run in AEW has not lived up to expectations. Connors' 'Fear and Loathing' gimmick is entertaining, and Finlay's natural presence is a strength. Gabe Kidd, though, seems to be struggling to find his place, caught between being a bag carrier and a thug.
Despite their individual talents, The Dogs are currently lower on the totem pole in AEW's trios division than they should be. It's a reminder that potential alone isn't enough; consistent performance and a well-defined identity are crucial for success.
Maya World: A Surprising Champion
Finally, we have Maya World, a winner in more ways than one. Maya's journey to becoming the AEW TBS Champion is an inspiring one. Her effort and dedication, especially in the face of personal tragedy, are a testament to her character.
Putting the belt on Maya was a bold move by AEW. It adds an element of intrigue and freshness to the championship scene. While Hikaru Shida is a talented wrestler, having a new heel character allows for different storytelling opportunities.
The decision to give Maya the title is a risk, but one that could pay off handsomely. If Maya runs with the belt and becomes a star, it will be a testament to AEW's willingness to take chances. If not, it's still a learning experience for a young talent. Either way, it's a win for wrestling fans, as it adds an element of unpredictability to the sport.
In conclusion, the past week in wrestling has been a rollercoaster of emotions and storylines. From the struggles of the WWE Raw women's division to the exciting match-up between Sami Zayn and Finn Balor, and the potential of The Dogs to the inspiring journey of Maya World, there's much to analyze and discuss. Until next time, keep those wrestling spirits high!
