Top 10 WWE Raw Moments Of 2017: Must-See!
Hey wrestling fans! Ready for a trip down memory lane? We're diving headfirst into the wild and unforgettable world of WWE Raw in 2017. Get ready to relive the top 10 moments that had us on the edge of our seats, cheering, booing, and maybe even shedding a tear or two. 2017 was a rollercoaster year for Raw, packed with shocking betrayals, epic battles, and the rise of new superstars. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let's get this show on the road!
1. The Return of Goldberg
Goldberg's return undoubtedly marks one of the most electrifying moments on Raw in 2017. After more than a decade away from WWE, the legendary Goldberg made his shocking return to accept Paul Heyman’s challenge on behalf of Brock Lesnar. The crowd erupted as his music hit, and the arena filled with chants of “Goldberg!”. This wasn’t just a return; it was a statement. He hadn't lost a step, and was ready to dominate once again. The energy was palpable, and it set the stage for an intense rivalry that would captivate audiences for months. His comeback was more than just nostalgia; it was a declaration that the icon was back to conquer. For fans who had grown up watching Goldberg, this was a dream come true. For newer fans, it was an introduction to one of the most dominant forces in wrestling history. The impact of this return resonated throughout the WWE universe, instantly elevating the stakes and adding a new layer of excitement to Monday Night Raw.
Goldberg's return wasn't just a one-off appearance; it sparked a renewed interest in wrestling, drawing in both old and new fans. The buzz surrounding his comeback was infectious, dominating social media and sports news alike. WWE masterfully capitalized on this hype, building anticipation for his eventual match against Brock Lesnar. The return itself was executed perfectly, with the element of surprise amplified by the deafening roar of the crowd. It was a moment that transcended wrestling, becoming a cultural phenomenon that reminded everyone of Goldberg's enduring legacy. The sheer spectacle of his return cemented its place as one of the top Raw moments of 2017, a testament to the power of nostalgia and the timeless appeal of a true wrestling icon.
2. Roman Reigns Defeats Braun Strowman in an Ambulance Match
Roman Reigns and Braun Strowman's brutal rivalry culminated in an intense Ambulance Match, a true spectacle of strength and aggression. These two powerhouses left nothing on the table as they destroyed everything in their path, showcasing their incredible athleticism and determination. The match was a non-stop barrage of impactful moves, with both superstars enduring unbelievable punishment. From slamming each other into the ambulance to using every weapon at their disposal, they pushed the limits of physicality. The sheer destruction and the high stakes of the match had the audience on the edge of their seats, wondering who would emerge victorious. This Ambulance Match wasn't just a fight; it was a war, a clash of titans that would be etched in the memories of WWE fans for years to come. The intensity and the sheer brutality of the encounter made it a standout moment on Raw in 2017.
The match was strategically built up over several weeks, with both Reigns and Strowman engaging in increasingly violent confrontations. This created a palpable sense of anticipation, making the Ambulance Match feel like the inevitable conclusion to their feud. The use of the ambulance as a weapon added a unique element to the match, turning it into a mobile battleground. The audience was fully invested in the outcome, with every near-fall and every impactful move eliciting a massive reaction. Ultimately, Roman Reigns emerged victorious, but not without enduring a tremendous amount of punishment. The victory solidified his position as a top star in WWE, while also elevating Strowman's status as a formidable monster. The Ambulance Match was a definitive moment in both of their careers, a testament to their dedication and willingness to push themselves to the limit.
3. Seth Rollins Turns on The Authority
Seth Rollins's betrayal of The Shield and subsequent alignment with The Authority was a seismic shift in the WWE landscape. This moment of ultimate betrayal sent shockwaves through the WWE Universe. Rollins, who had been seen as a brother to Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns, shattered their bond by siding with Triple H and The Authority. The sheer disbelief on the faces of Ambrose and Reigns mirrored the shock of the fans watching at home. This wasn't just a turn; it was a calculated move that instantly transformed Rollins into one of the most hated villains in WWE. The impact of this betrayal reverberated throughout the entire roster, setting the stage for months of intense rivalries and unpredictable storylines. It was a defining moment in Rollins' career, establishing him as a top-tier heel and a major player in WWE.
The aftermath of Rollins's betrayal was just as compelling as the moment itself. The breakup of The Shield, one of the most dominant factions in recent WWE history, left a void that fans thought could never be filled. Ambrose and Reigns were forced to navigate their careers as singles competitors, each fueled by their animosity towards Rollins. This created a compelling dynamic, with the former brothers constantly crossing paths and engaging in brutal confrontations. Rollins, under the guidance of The Authority, thrived as a villain, using his newfound power to torment his former allies. The storyline was expertly crafted, with each twist and turn adding to the drama and intrigue. The betrayal of The Shield remains one of the most memorable moments in WWE history, a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact of a well-executed heel turn.
4. Alexa Bliss Captures the Raw Women's Championship
Alexa Bliss winning the Raw Women's Championship was a defining moment in her career, showcasing her talent and determination. As one of the most charismatic and cunning superstars in WWE, Bliss proved that she could hang with the best of them. Her victory was a testament to her hard work and strategic brilliance, cementing her status as a top star in the women's division. The match itself was a thrilling contest, with Bliss using her agility and wit to overcome her opponent. The crowd erupted as she captured the title, celebrating her achievement and recognizing her potential. This was more than just a championship win; it was a statement that Alexa Bliss was a force to be reckoned with, a superstar who would continue to rise to the top.
Bliss's reign as Raw Women's Champion was marked by her cleverness and ability to manipulate her opponents. She quickly established herself as a dominant force, using her microphone skills to taunt and outsmart her rivals. Her reign was characterized by its unpredictable nature, with Bliss constantly finding new ways to stay one step ahead. She embraced her role as a heel, relishing the boos and using them to fuel her performances. Her championship run was a testament to her versatility and her ability to connect with the audience, whether they loved her or hated her. Alexa Bliss's victory and subsequent reign as Raw Women's Champion solidified her place as one of the most memorable and impactful superstars in WWE history.
5. The Hardy Boyz Return and Win the Raw Tag Team Championships
The Hardy Boyz' return at WrestleMania 33 and their subsequent Raw Tag Team Championship win was an unforgettable moment for longtime wrestling fans. The crowd went absolutely wild when their music hit, marking a surreal and emotional homecoming for the legendary tag team. Their victory was more than just a title win; it was a celebration of their incredible career and their enduring connection with the WWE Universe. For fans who had grown up watching The Hardy Boyz, this was a dream come true, a chance to relive the magic of their youth. The energy in the arena was electric, as everyone cheered and celebrated the return of these iconic superstars. The Hardy Boyz's return and championship win was a testament to their legacy and their lasting impact on the world of wrestling.
The Hardy Boyz's impact extended far beyond their initial return. Their presence on Raw brought a renewed sense of excitement and nostalgia to the tag team division. They quickly re-established themselves as a top team, engaging in thrilling matches and captivating audiences with their high-flying style. Their experience and their innovative offense made them a force to be reckoned with, and they continued to deliver memorable moments week after week. The Hardy Boyz's return not only revitalized their own careers but also helped to elevate the entire tag team division, inspiring a new generation of superstars. Their legacy as one of the greatest tag teams of all time was further solidified by their triumphant return to WWE and their subsequent championship win.
6. Kurt Angle Becomes Raw General Manager
Kurt Angle's appointment as the Raw General Manager was a welcome surprise for fans who had missed seeing the Olympic Hero on WWE television. His return to a prominent role in WWE was met with enthusiasm, as fans eagerly anticipated his interactions with the current roster of superstars. Angle brought a sense of credibility and authority to the General Manager position, using his experience and his no-nonsense attitude to keep the show running smoothly. His presence added a new dynamic to Raw, with his interactions with superstars often leading to entertaining segments and unexpected twists. Kurt Angle's return as Raw General Manager was a reminder of his legendary career and his enduring appeal to the WWE Universe.
Angle's tenure as General Manager was marked by his fairness and his willingness to give opportunities to deserving superstars. He used his position to create compelling storylines and to foster rivalries, always with the goal of putting on the best show possible. His interactions with superstars like Roman Reigns, Braun Strowman, and Brock Lesnar were particularly memorable, as he often found himself caught in the middle of their conflicts. Angle's presence on Raw not only entertained fans but also provided guidance and mentorship to the younger generation of superstars. His return as General Manager was a testament to his passion for the wrestling business and his desire to give back to the fans who had supported him throughout his career.
7. Samoa Joe Debuts and Attacks Seth Rollins
Samoa Joe's debut on Raw and his immediate attack on Seth Rollins was a statement of intent, establishing him as a forceful and dangerous new player in WWE. Joe's arrival was unexpected, and his brutal assault on Rollins sent a clear message to the entire roster: he was not to be taken lightly. The attack was vicious and unrelenting, showcasing Joe's incredible strength and his willingness to go to any lengths to achieve his goals. The crowd was stunned by the ferocity of the attack, realizing that Samoa Joe was a different kind of superstar, one who would stop at nothing to make an impact. His debut was a definitive moment, setting the stage for a compelling rivalry with Seth Rollins and signaling the arrival of a major new star in WWE.
Joe's presence on Raw immediately added a new level of intensity and physicality to the show. His no-nonsense attitude and his devastating wrestling style made him a formidable opponent for anyone. He quickly established himself as a top heel, using his strength and his cunning to dominate his rivals. His rivalry with Seth Rollins was particularly intense, with both superstars engaging in brutal matches and heated confrontations. Samoa Joe's debut on Raw was a turning point for the show, injecting it with a dose of realism and aggression that captivated audiences and solidified his place as a major player in WWE.
8. Bayley Wins the Raw Women's Championship
Bayley's Raw Women's Championship win was an emotional moment for her and her fans, showcasing her perseverance and determination. Bayley, known for her hugable personality and her connection with the WWE Universe, finally achieved her dream of capturing the Raw Women's Championship. Her victory was met with overwhelming support from the crowd, who had followed her journey from NXT to the main roster. The match itself was a hard-fought battle, with Bayley overcoming the odds to defeat her opponent. The moment she raised the championship above her head was a testament to her hard work and her unwavering belief in herself. Bayley's championship win was a feel-good moment for WWE, reminding everyone of the power of dreams and the importance of never giving up.
Bayley's reign as Raw Women's Champion was characterized by her optimism and her desire to inspire others. She used her platform to promote positivity and to encourage her fans to chase their own dreams. Her matches were always filled with passion and heart, and she consistently put on exciting performances. Bayley's championship run was a reminder of the importance of representation and the power of connecting with the audience on a personal level. Her victory and her subsequent reign as champion solidified her place as one of the most beloved and respected superstars in WWE.
9. Brock Lesnar F5s Kurt Angle
Brock Lesnar's F5 on Kurt Angle was a shocking display of dominance and a reminder of Lesnar's unmatched power. Lesnar, known for his brutal and unforgiving style, used his signature move to send a message to the entire Raw roster. The attack on Angle was sudden and unexpected, leaving the audience stunned by the sheer force of the F5. This wasn't just a wrestling move; it was a symbol of Lesnar's dominance and his willingness to destroy anyone who stood in his way. The F5 on Kurt Angle was a definitive moment, solidifying Lesnar's position as the most dangerous and unpredictable superstar in WWE.
Lesnar's presence on Raw was always a source of excitement and tension. His matches were often short and explosive, with Lesnar using his incredible strength and his MMA background to overwhelm his opponents. His F5 was one of the most feared moves in WWE, capable of ending a match in an instant. The attack on Kurt Angle was a reminder of Lesnar's destructive potential and his willingness to use any means necessary to achieve his goals. Brock Lesnar's F5 on Kurt Angle was a moment that will be remembered for years to come, a testament to Lesnar's power and his impact on the world of wrestling.
10. Braun Strowman Destroys the Announce Table (Multiple Times!)
Braun Strowman's destruction of the announce table became a recurring highlight on Raw in 2017, showcasing his unbelievable strength and his penchant for chaos. Strowman, known as
