Tuesday, DECEMBER 23 – 5:58 P.M. (CT)

-WWE Raw has been a very good show over the past few weeks. It seems as though since Stephanie McMahon cut that promo about shaking things up on the show, that is exactly what ended up happening. Although the loss of Batista is a big one, there has been so much on the show to sink your teeth into. Raw is slowly becoming the best show in WWE again.

-First and foremost is Randy Orton. Fans of Orton have always praised his athleticism, look, and upside. Detractors of Orton have claimed he was bland, both on the microphone and in the ring. Well, even though Orton still had his arm in a sling, he came back to do some promo work. I am not sure if he just tried to be natural without trying so hard or what, but his mic work has been amazingly good.

Look at it this way: Orton's promos have reminded me a lot of the promos Steve Austin used to cut. Orton, although he is (was) a heel, said things that not only a lot of people could relate to, but he said things that were true. He did not blindly tear down the babyfaces and give undue credit to the heels. He bashed the crap out of everyone because they all had something in common; they were not as talented as Randy Orton. Orton is money right now and I hope it continues.

-The other top heel on Raw is Chris Jericho. Honestly, I am a little worried he will be lost in the shuffle at the top of the card, but I am hoping he will remain in main events or feuds with other main eventers who may not be gunning for the title at the present time. While Orton has been cold, calculating, and remorseless, Jericho, while showing similar qualities, has played an entirely different heel role, one in which enables both men to shine as top heels on the same show.

-I am very excited and intrigued to see how the Intercontinental Champion reign of William Regal plays out. Regal has really put over the title as something prestigious and as something that every member of the roster should have their hearts set on winning. Once Regal is able to work, I would love to see him work long, stiff, and athletic matches with the midcard babyfaces on the show.

-I will always be the first person to admit when I am wrong. The current storyline involving Shawn Michaels and JBL did absolutely nothing for me at the start. Everyone is aware of the obvious holes in the program, but this drawn out drama between the two is how you book a program. They are not rushing into a match. They are slowing building to that point and although it will not be Virgil knocking out Ted DiBiase with the million dollar belt, it will spark a huge pop when Michaels finally hits Sweet Chin Music on JBL. The segment with Triple H and Michaels on Monday was well done and very logical.

-If you like comedy, the duo of Santino Marella and Beth Phoenix should be an enjoyable one to you. Santino floundered for months and quite frankly, did not bring much to the shows. He seemed to be trying too hard. However, he introduced the Honk-A-Meter and has Beth, who has been a perfect ally. I agree with Jason Powell when I say Santino's in ring credibility should be strengthened so WWE can make a boatload of cash with him.

-Overall, Raw has had direction and purpose over the past few weeks. I appreciate the shows and they have been very entertaining. Hopefully the holiday break will not burn out the creative fires inside of, um, well, Creative.

-Before I go, I wanted to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and I hope Santa Claus brings you what you desire. If you celebrate something other than Christmas, I wish you a happy one full of love and memorable times. Remember, be safe out there. Don't be the dumbass that gets a DUI, or worse. By the way, root for the Minnesota Vikings this weekend. Vikings fans deserve a run at a championship.

Remember, unless you are a vicious stalker, feel free to email me at dotnetrich@gmail.com with your thoughts and reactions.

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