The Storylines
– The Shield cut a promo backstage about facing Team Hell No and The Undertaker on Raw. It was a promo that he have seen before, but it was still riveting. You are always unsure how young guys will do from week to week delivering a promo, but they thrive in this spot. It protects their character doing it taped, not in front of the live crowd. I think when they say their own names, it makes them feel more important. People need to remember their names, get used to it, and really attach themselves on The Shield. They do not need to be cheered. Fans won't cheer them if they continue to do what they are doing. I love how they have not stopped attacking or targeting the "big boys" in the WWE. Keep them important and keep them aiming for the biggest and best.
Grade: B+
Alberto Del Rio defeated Jack Swagger in a really good contest. I still feel these guys are not strong enough to face Ziggler. A new heel champion should have an already established guy chase his title, like a Randy Orton or Sheamus. Nonetheless, this was a great contest that featured many 2 counts, multiple submission holds, and ended up making both men look strong. Swagger got the win over Ziggler on Raw, so you knew Del Rio had to defeat Swagger tonight. It was logical to have Del Rio go over. I wanted to see interference from the champion. That is the only thing that really bothered me. Whenever you have a new champion, you MUST have him seen with his competition in one way or another. Build the storyline with 3 separate branches, not 2.
Grade: B
