The year 2025 was a rollercoaster for the world, and WWE experienced its share of challenges with weekly TV shows. However, Monday Night RAW showed consistent improvement throughout the year, evolving from dull and repetitive to thrilling and action-packed weekly. Fans frequently hailed certain episodes as the year’s best, but the November 17 edition, leading into Survivor Series, might be unmatched. With enhanced bookings, title defenses, and star pushes, RAW delivered its finest performance of 2025, thanks to several key factors.
One major highlight was the surprise returns that kept viewers engaged. Dolph Ziggler made a lightning-fast return from his TNA stint to participate in John Cena’s “Last Time Is Now Tournament,” despite losing to Solo Chicore. AJ Lee also returned to reignite his rivalry with Becky Lynch, capturing the Intercontinental Championship. In a dramatic main event, Brock Lesnar reappeared since Wrestlepalooza to join Team Vision for War Games, defeating Cody Rhodes and CM Punk. Soon after, Roman Reigns returned, joining the fan-favorite side and clearing the ring. Additionally, Gunter made his comeback since losing the World Heavyweight Championship at SummerSlam, accompanied by his classic theme song, which thrilled the Madison Square Garden audience.
The show also featured numerous standout matches that maintained high in-ring quality. Gunther’s battle against rising NXT star Jevon Evans was hailed as one of RAW’s best matches of the year. John Cena’s final match on RAW—a six-man tag partnering with Sheamus and Rey Mysterio—provided an exhilarating start. Meanwhile, Maxine Dupri’s impressive performance against Becky Lynch, defending the Intercontinental title, showcased her growth. Even the relatively weaker match between Solo Chicore and Dolph Ziggler was solid, proving that the entire event was anchored by strong wrestling moments.
The magic of WWE TV lies in big moments, storyline developments, and cliffhangers, and this episode delivered on all fronts. Maxine Dupri’s victory for the Intercontinental Championship was a significant high point, ensuring title matches remain must-see attractions. Meanwhile, intertwined storylines in the men’s War Games competition and ongoing faction tensions created rich narrative layers. The continued feuding among Cena, Sheamus, Rey Mysterio, and The Judgment Day added momentum, while the Women’s War Games buildup and the addition of Reigns and Lesnar to the men’s division increased anticipation for Survivor Series. This episode was a flawless mix of surprises, quality wrestling, and compelling narratives—making it the year’s best WWE weekly show.
Fan Take: This episode matters because it showcases WWE’s ability to blend thrilling in-ring action with captivating storytelling, setting a high standard heading into Survivor Series. For WWE fans, it signals a promising future where unexpected returns and evolving rivalries keep the excitement alive and the sport dynamic.
