WWE Monday Night Raw Highlights 18th December 2023

Published on 19 December 2023 at 18:00

In the final live appearance of the brand this year during the holiday season, WWE RAW took place at the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa. As the fans were in for enthralling and intense matches featuring thrilling title matches, thrilling segments, and the final live appearance of the brand at this time next year during the holiday season.

 

In his Miracle on 34th Street Fight against JD McDonagh, R-Truth Proposed that the Loser Leave The Judgment Day

In the latest twist to the ongoing saga of The Judgment Day, the ever-entertaining R-Truth added his unique flair to the narrative by laying out a high-stakes challenge. Maintaining his claim to be part of the formidable faction, R-Truth threw down the gauntlet for a Miracle on 34th Street Fight with a stipulation that caught the WWE Universe by surprise: the loser must leave The Judgment Day. His opponent: the formidable JD McDonagh.

 

This audacious proposal is quintessential R-Truth, blending humour with serious consequences. The stakes for the Miracle on 34th Street Fight are now higher than ever, turning what could have been a seasonal spectacle into a pivotal moment for The Judgment Day's continuity.

 

R-Truth, with his unorthodox style and unpredictable antics, has often been the wildcard in any matchup. However, with this declaration, he's taken the game to a whole new level. Not only is he staking his place within the faction, but he's also putting his WWE career on the line, showing a level of conviction and seriousness that sometimes lies hidden beneath his comical exterior.

 

JD McDonagh, known for his cold and calculating approach to his craft, is no stranger to high-pressure scenarios. The stipulation adds an extra layer of intensity to the bout, knowing that his place in The Judgment Day—a group that has been a cornerstone of his identity in the WWE—is under threat.

 

As the Miracle on 34th Street Fight approaches, questions abound. Can R-Truth pull off a Christmas miracle, or will JD McDonagh assert his dominance and secure his spot in The Judgment Day? The WWE Universe can only wait with bated breath as these two superstars prepare to clash in a match that promises to be as unconventional as it is critical to the landscape of The Judgment Day.

 

R-Truth def. JD McDonagh in a Miracle on 34th Street Fight

In a clash that could only be described as both brutal and bizarrely festive, R-Truth triumphed over JD McDonagh in the Miracle on 34th Street Fight, a match that will be talked about for years to come in WWE folklore. Not only did the bout feature a wild array of holiday-themed weaponry, but it also carried the weighty stipulation that the loser would be excommunicated from The Judgment Day faction.

 

From the opening bell, the WWE Universe was treated to a spectacle of seasonal mayhem. R-Truth, the master of both comedy and combat, wielded Candy Cane Kendo Sticks with the same finesse he raps his entrance theme. JD McDonagh, always the calculated competitor, responded in kind, using everything from straps to steel steps to gain the upper hand. Tables were not just for the festive feast but became tools for destruction as the two gladiators battled throughout the decorated arena.

 

As the match escalated, a fire extinguisher sprayed a winter-like fog, Christmas trees became battering rams, and "Dirty" Dom Mysterio's interference added a layer of chaos to the already unpredictable match. R-Truth's resilience shone through the wild antics, as he matched McDonagh's aggression blow for blow, proving that behind his humorous veneer lies the heart of a fearless competitor.

 

The crescendo of the match came when R-Truth, seizing a moment of distraction, climbed to the top rope with McDonagh in tow. With the crowd on its feet and the holiday lights twinkling overhead, R-Truth drove McDonagh through a table with a move that encapsulated both his physical prowess and his in-ring smarts. The impact was resounding, the table shattered, and R-Truth covered McDonagh for the pinfall.

 

The referee's hand came down for the three-count, but the victory was more than just a win for R-Truth; it was a statement. The stipulation meant that McDonagh's affiliation with The Judgment Day was forcibly severed, changing the dynamic of the feared faction and leaving McDonagh's future uncertain.

 

For R-Truth, this victory was a testament to his enduring capability to entertain and succeed within the squared circle, further cementing his legacy as one of the most versatile and beloved superstars in WWE history. For The Judgment Day, it was a blow to their ranks and a moment of introspection as they faced the loss of a key member.

 

As the dust settled and the holiday decorations became relics of the battlefield, the WWE Universe buzzed with the outcome of the Miracle on 34th Street Fight. With R-Truth's hand raised in victory, it became clear that in WWE, miracles do happen, and they often come with tables, ladders, and a dash of Christmas spirit.

 

Becky Lynch and Nia Jax Engaged in a Heated Argument

 

Tensions reached a boiling point on WWE programming as Nia Jax and Becky Lynch, two of the most formidable athletes in the women's division, clashed in a volatile altercation that captivated viewers. This intense exchange was not a scripted moment of drama; it was a raw display of emotion and competitiveness that spilled over in front of a live audience.

 

The encounter between Jax and Lynch was a collision of personalities and styles. Jax, known for her imposing presence and powerhouse style, has always been a dominant force in the ring. Lynch, "The Man" of the women's division, has carved out a reputation as a fearless fighter, unafraid to stand toe-to-toe with any challenger.

 

Their altercation was a stark reminder of the ever-present rivalries that simmer beneath the surface on WWE programming. These confrontations are not just about building towards a match; they are about the fierce pride of the superstars involved. For Jax and Lynch, this was more than an exchange of harsh words or a shoving match; it was an assertion of dominance, a statement to each other and to the WWE Universe that neither will back down or be intimidated.

 

The WWE Universe watched, rapt, as the altercation unfolded, knowing that such moments can be the spark that ignites a feud of epic proportions. With each superstar refusing to give ground, the altercation only heightened the anticipation for when they will settle their differences in the ring.

 

This confrontation adds another layer to the rich tapestry of the women's division narrative, promising future encounters that will be as intense and passionate as the superstars themselves. Whether this altercation leads to a one-on-one match, a title bout, or a larger storyline, the WWE Universe can be sure that when Jax and Lynch collide, it will be must-see TV.

 

Gunther Defeats. The Miz – WWE Intercontinental Title Match

The battle for the Intercontinental Title reached its crescendo as Gunther, the indomitable "Ring General," defended his championship against the wily veteran, The Miz, in a match that was as strategic as it was brutal.

 

The climax of this epic encounter came when The Miz artfully dodged an attack from Gunther, causing the champion to inadvertently chop the unforgiving steel ring post. This misstep resulted in visible damage to Gunther's hand, a vulnerability The Miz was quick to exploit. Seizing the opportunity, The Miz executed a Skull-Crushing Finale from the second rope, a move that many assumed would mark the end of Gunther's reign.

 

However, true to his moniker, The Ring General displayed a resilience that has become his hallmark. Gunther, shaking off the effects of The Miz's signature move, mustered the strength to deliver a devastating clothesline, swinging the momentum back in his favour. He followed up with not one, but a pair of thunderous Powerbombs, each one more punishing than the last, leaving The Miz with no option but to succumb to the pin.

 

Gunther's victory was a testament to his dominance and tenacity. His ability to overcome adversity and roar back in the face of defeat solidified his position as a champion of historic proportions. The stipulation that The Miz could no longer challenge for the title during Gunther's reign added a layer of finality to the result, closing the chapter on their rivalry for the time being.

 

The loss for The Miz was a significant one, as the stipulation effectively barred him from seeking the prestigious Intercontinental Title as long as it was held by Gunther. This outcome left The A-Lister at a crossroads, compelling him to recalibrate his career path and seek new opportunities and rivalries.

 

For the WWE Universe, this match was a roller-coaster of emotions, delivering high-stakes drama that only a championship bout can provide. As Gunther's historic reign continues, the question looms: Who will rise to challenge the Ring General next, and what new stories will unfold in the saga of the Intercontinental Championship?

 

Following the reading of "The American Nightmare Before Christmas" by Shinsuke Nakamura, Cody Rhodes engaged Shinsuke Nakamura in a brawl throughout the arena 

The simmering tension between Cody Rhodes and Shinsuke Nakamura boiled over into an all-out brawl that sprawled throughout the arena, a spectacle that had the WWE Universe both stunned and electrified. The catalyst for this clash was as unorthodox as it was inflammatory: Nakamura's mocking recital of "The American Nightmare Before Christmas," a pointed barb aimed at twisting Rhodes' moniker into a taunt.

 

Nakamura's theatrics struck a nerve, and Rhodes, ever the fiery competitor, responded not with words but with action. The brawl between these two world-class athletes was a chaotic dance that careened from the ring to the concourse, with both superstars using the environment as their stage for combat.

 

This wasn't just a fight; it was an expression of the intense personal rivalry that has developed between them. For Rhodes, "The American Nightmare" is not just a nickname; it's an identity crafted from his legacy and his journey in professional wrestling. Nakamura's derisive reading was more than an insult; it was a challenge to Rhodes' very essence.

 

The skirmish between Rhodes and Nakamura was a display of both athletes' passion and resilience, a relentless back-and-forth that showcased their in-ring intelligence and physical prowess. The WWE Universe watched in awe as the altercation unfolded, turning every corner of the arena into an extension of the squared circle.

 

As security struggled to separate the two, it was clear that this was a feud that couldn't be contained by ropes or regulations. This was personal, and it was only the beginning. The WWE Universe is now left to wonder how this rivalry will escalate and what it means for the future of both superstars. Will it lead to a sanctioned match where they can settle their differences, or will the animosity continue to spill out in unexpected ways?

 

Whatever the outcome, the brawl has already etched itself into WWE history as a moment when the lines between performance and personal vendetta were blurred, when the spectacle of sports entertainment became as real as the fury in the eyes of the combatants. Rhodes and Nakamura have set the stage for a confrontation that could define their careers and perhaps change the landscape of WWE itself.

 

WWE Women's Tag Team Titles were captured by Katana Chance & Kayden Carter over Piper Niven & Chelsea Green

In an exhilarating display of teamwork and agility, Katana Chance & Kayden Carter achieved a career-defining victory, securing the WWE Women's Tag Team Titles from the formidable duo of Piper Niven & Chelsea Green.

 

The climax of this high-stakes match was a testament to Chance & Carter's chemistry and tactical acumen. As the bout reached its crescendo, the duo executed a series of manoeuvres with the precision of seasoned veterans. The Keg Stand, a move that has become synonymous with their dynamic in-ring style, was flawlessly delivered to Piper Niven, effectively neutralising her and swinging the momentum in their favour.

 

With the crowd roaring in anticipation, Carter and Chance seized the moment. They honed in on Chelsea Green, delivering the After Party with an impact that reverberated throughout the arena. As the referee's hand came down for the three-count, a wave of exhilaration swept over the audience. Chance & Carter had ascended to the pinnacle of the WWE Women's Tag Team division, their dreams materialising before the eyes of millions.

 

Their victory was not just a win in the record books; it was a moment that signalled the arrival of a new era in the Women’s Tag Team division. Piper Niven & Chelsea Green, the dethroned champions, were left to contemplate the end of their reign, their synergy bested by the up-and-coming champions on this fateful night.

 

For Katana Chance & Kayden Carter, this triumph is the beginning of what promises to be an impactful championship journey. With their combination of raw talent and innovative offence, they stand ready to face all challengers, determined to leave an indelible mark on the division and inspire future generations.

 

The WWE Universe, captivated by this changing of the guard, now looks forward to the reign of Chance & Carter with great anticipation. What challenges and rivalries await them as they carry the mantle of champions? Only time will tell, but if this victory is any indication, their future is as bright as the gold they now proudly carry.

 

Ivar Defeats. Akira Tozawa

In a match that showcased the collision of sheer force and unyielding spirit, Ivar emerged victorious over Akira Tozawa, solidifying his reputation as a fearsome competitor within the WWE ranks. Tozawa, known for his tenacity and high-flying prowess, gave a valiant performance that won the hearts of the WWE Universe, despite the outcome.

 

From the outset, Tozawa brought the fight to Ivar with a flurry of quick strikes and agile manoeuvres. His resolve was on full display as he faced off against a larger opponent, a testament to his role as the junior member of The Alpha Academy and his reputation for never backing down from a challenge.

 

Ivar, one half of the Viking Raiders, countered with the might that has become his calling card. As the match progressed, it became a gripping display of Tozawa's speed against Ivar's power. The turning point came when Ivar, capitalising on his size and strength, executed a devastating World's Strongest Slam. The move, a high-impact slam off the ropes, rattled the ring and sent a clear message: Ivar was there to dominate.

 

The impact of the slam left no room for doubt, and as Ivar pinned Tozawa for the three-count, the victory was his. The win was a reminder of Ivar's destructive capabilities and his potential as a solo competitor should he choose to pursue individual glory beyond tag team success.

 

For Akira Tozawa, the loss did nothing to diminish his standing or the respect he commands. His performance, even in defeat, was a declaration of his competitive fire and a signal that he will always be a formidable presence in the ring, regardless of the size of the adversary.

 

The aftermath of this bout left fans anticipating what's next for both competitors. Will Ivar's victory pave the way for more singles success, or will it fuel the Viking Raiders' collective ambitions? And for Tozawa, what new strategies and alliances will he forge as he continues to prove his mettle?

 

This match, while a chapter in itself, is also a precursor to future narratives in the WWE Universe. It's a narrative that speaks to the diversity of talent within the WWE and the endless possibilities that lie ahead for superstars willing to clash in the pursuit of victory.

 

In a brutal confrontation ahead of WWE Day 1, Drew McIntyre injured World Heavyweight Champion Seth "Freakin" Rollins

In a shocking turn of events on the road to WWE Day 1, Drew McIntyre and World Heavyweight Champion Seth “Freakin” Rollins collided in a brutal confrontation that left the champion injured and the WWE Universe in awe. The clash between these two titans of the ring was more than a mere scuffle; it was an intense physical showdown that has potentially reshaped the landscape of the upcoming event.

 

The tension had been building for weeks, with both superstars exchanging barbs both in and out of the ring. McIntyre, with his imposing presence and renowned Claymore Kick, has been on a quest to climb back to the top of the WWE mountain. Rollins, the self-proclaimed visionary and current holder of the World Heavyweight Championship, has stood as the embodiment of the pinnacle McIntyre seeks to conquer.

 

Their confrontation erupted without warning, a spontaneous combustion of pent-up aggression that could no longer be contained. The ferocity of their exchange was palpable, as McIntyre unleashed a barrage of strikes that even Rollins, despite his cunning and agility, could not fully evade. The skirmish culminated in a moment that silenced the crowd – a well-timed Claymore that connected with devastating effect, leaving the champion writhing in pain.

 

The implications of Rollins' injury are far-reaching. As the World Heavyweight Champion, his ability to compete at WWE Day 1 is now in question, throwing the event's main event into uncertainty. Fans are left wondering about the status of Rollins' championship reign and who, if anyone, will step up to challenge for the title should he be unable to defend it.

 

For Drew McIntyre, the incident has solidified his reputation as a dangerous contender, a superstar whose power and determination make him a threat to any champion. The WWE Universe is now left to ponder the consequences of this altercation. Will McIntyre face repercussions for his actions, or will he be granted an opportunity to vie for the championship he has so forcefully staked his claim to?

 

As the fallout from this confrontation unfolds, one thing is certain: WWE Day 1 is set to be an event shrouded in drama, with the potential for surprises and changes that could affect the WWE for months, if not years, to come. The path to Day 1 has taken an unexpected turn, and all eyes will be on what happens next.

 

The "Santa Claus" Kofi Kingston was thwarted by Jey Uso in a two-on-one battle with Imperium

In a moment that blended holiday cheer with the spirit of heroism, Jey Uso emerged as an unexpected saviour on WWE programming, intervening in a 2-on-1 assault by Imperium on none other than "Santa Claus" Kofi Kingston.

 

The festive episode took a turn when Imperium, the notorious faction known for their no-nonsense, take-no-prisoners approach, targeted Kingston, who had donned the jolly red suit to spread holiday joy among the WWE Universe. As the duo unleashed their attack, it seemed as though the holiday spirit would be crushed under the might of their aggression.

 

However, Jey Uso, acting with a sense of justice and embodying the true spirit of the season, rushed to the ring. His timely interference turned the tides, thwarting the overwhelming odds against Kingston. Uso's bold actions not only saved Kingston from further harm but also preserved the joyous atmosphere of the event.

 

Uso's intervention was a stark contrast to his usual alignment with The Usos and their often ruthless tactics. This act of defiance against Imperium's onslaught was a reminder that even the fiercest competitors can stand up for what's right, especially when the happiness of the WWE Universe is at stake.

 

This heartwarming moment was met with a chorus of cheers from the crowd, as Uso and Kingston stood tall in the ring, a united front against the would-be holiday spoilers. As the WWE Universe celebrated, it became clear that the spirit of camaraderie and goodwill extends beyond the storylines, touching the hearts of fans and superstars alike.

 

Jey Uso's actions on this festive night will be remembered as a highlight of the season, a moment when the lines between friend and foe were blurred in the name of holiday cheer and the shared bonds that unite the WWE family.

 

 

Jey Uso Defeats. Ludwig Kaiser

In a high-octane clash on WWE programming, Jey Uso emerged victorious against Ludwig Kaiser in a match that had the WWE Universe on the edge of their seats. The bout was marked by athleticism, strategy, and timely interventions, culminating in a sequence of events that underscored the unpredictable nature of WWE matches.

 

The match was already in full swing, with Jey Uso and Ludwig Kaiser trading blows in a test of skill and will, when the situation outside the ring intensified. Giovanni Vinci, seeking to tip the scales in Kaiser's favour, found himself on the receiving end of Kofi Kingston's signature move, Trouble in Paradise. Kingston's involvement neutralised Vinci's interference and set the stage for an exhilarating finish.

 

Capitalising on the momentary chaos, Jey Uso took command of the match, showcasing the agility and impact that are hallmarks of The Usos. He delivered a devastating Spear to Kaiser, a move that alone has finished many opponents. But Jey was not done yet. In a display of his high-flying prowess, he followed up with the Uso Splash, a move that combines precision, timing, and raw power, effectively sealing the deal.

 

As Jey Uso ascended to the top rope and launched himself into the air, the crowd rose in anticipation. The impact of the Uso Splash was undeniable, and as Jey pinned Kaiser's shoulders to the mat, the referee's hand counted one, two, three. Jey Uso's hand was raised in triumph, and the celebration was as much a testament to his individual talent as it was a nod to the teamwork that had turned the tide of the match.

 

The victory was a significant one for Jey Uso, adding another highlight to his storied career within WWE. For Ludwig Kaiser, the loss was a setback, but in the world of WWE, every match is a learning opportunity, and every setback a chance to come back stronger.

 

As the WWE Universe applauded the competitors, the echoes of the match's climax resonated throughout the arena. Jey Uso's display of resilience and aerial mastery, combined with Kofi Kingston's timely intervention, had turned an already captivating match into a memorable moment, reinforcing the adage that in WWE, anything can happen.

 

Undisputed WWE Tag Team Titles are retained by The Judgment Day against The Creed Brothers

The stakes couldn't have been higher on WWE programming as The Judgment Day squared off against The Creed Brothers in a match that would determine the fate of the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Titles. The fierce competition was palpable as Finn Bálor and Damian Priest represented The Judgment Day with a formidable presence, while The Creed Brothers, Julius and Brutus, brought an unmatched tenacity to the ring.

 

The match was a showcase of pure athleticism and raw power, with both teams displaying a level of commitment that left nothing in reserve. Finn Bálor and Damian Priest, with their characteristic mix of technical skill and dark charisma, proved once again why they were at the pinnacle of the tag team division. The Creed Brothers, relatively new to the WWE Universe but already respected for their collegiate wrestling background and sheer physicality, pushed the champions to their limits.

 

Julius and Brutus Creed, the brothers known for their grit and determination, fought with a synergy that only siblings can share. They matched The Judgment Day move for move, creating moments that had the crowd believing a title change was imminent. However, it was the cunning and experience of Señor Money in the Bank, a moniker that speaks to strategic prowess and opportunism, that ultimately turned the tide.

 

In the climax of this titanic struggle, it was a well-executed 'South of Heaven' that spelled the end for The Creed Brothers' valiant effort. The move, delivered with precision and impact, allowed The Judgment Day to retain their titles in what was a hard-fought victory. The win was a testament to the champions' resilience and ability to withstand the storm brought by the challengers.

 

The aftermath of the match left the WWE Universe in awe of the spectacle they had witnessed. The Judgment Day stood tall, their hands raised, the gold still around their waists, while The Creed Brothers absorbed the lessons of the battle, their resolve only strengthened by the near-victory. The Undisputed WWE Tag Team Titles remained with The Judgment Day, but the respect for The Creed Brothers had reached new heights.

 

As The Judgment Day continues their dominant reign, the question on everyone's mind is who will be able to dethrone these seemingly unbeatable champions? And for The Creed Brothers, the future is bright with potential, as their performance has solidified them as a force to be reckoned with in the tag team division. The WWE landscape is ever-changing, and with competitors like these, the tag team scene remains one of the most exciting in sports entertainment.

 

If you want to know more about the events that unfolded on Monday Night Raw, then click the video below!

 

Aaron Teasdale

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