WWE Raw 2021 Results: Full Recap
What's up, wrestling fanatics! Get ready to dive deep into the thrilling world of WWE Raw for the entire year of 2021. This was a year packed with drama, unexpected turns, and some of the most iconic moments in recent WWE history. We're talking about championship changes, epic rivalries reignited, and the emergence of new superstars who are set to dominate the wrestling landscape for years to come. So grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let's break down all the major happenings from every episode of Monday Night Raw in 2021. From the Royal Rumble all the way to the year-end finales, we've got you covered. Whether you're a die-hard fan who watched every second or someone looking to catch up on the highlights, this is your ultimate guide to the rollercoaster ride that was WWE Raw in 2021. We'll be looking at the key storylines, the standout matches, and the moments that had us all talking.
January: A New Year, New Beginnings, and Royal Rumble Shocks
The year kicked off with a bang, guys! January 2021 on WWE Raw set the stage for a year of intense competition and shifting power dynamics. The road to WrestleMania was officially underway, and the anticipation was palpable. We saw the fallout from TLC and the beginning of new feuds that would define the first quarter of the year. The main focus was, of course, the build-up to the Royal Rumble. Several Raw superstars were eyeing their shot at a championship match at WrestleMania, and the qualifying matches were hotly contested. We witnessed some incredible in-ring action as established stars clashed with rising talents, all vying for that coveted spot. One of the biggest storylines to emerge was the continued dominance of The Fiend, whose menacing presence continued to cast a dark shadow over Raw. His matches were not just physical contests but psychological battles that left audiences on the edge of their seats. Furthermore, the tag team division was heating up, with teams like The Hurt Business and The New Day engaging in a fierce rivalry that produced some show-stealing encounters. The women's division was also showcasing its depth, with Asuka, Charlotte Flair, and Rhea Ripley (though her main roster call-up was still on the horizon for many fans anticipating her impact) leading the charge in compelling narratives. The Royal Rumble event itself delivered major surprises, with Edge making a historic return to win the Men's Royal Rumble match, a moment that sent shockwaves through the WWE Universe. On the women's side, Bianca Belair emerged victorious, signaling a massive push for the EST of WWE and setting up a potential dream match for WrestleMania. The fallout from these monumental Rumble victories dominated the subsequent Raw episodes, as both Edge and Bianca Belair started to lay claim to their WrestleMania opportunities, immediately shaking up the landscape of both the Universal Championship and Raw Women's Championship pictures. The year started with a clear direction, but the Royal Rumble ensured that the path to WrestleMania would be anything but predictable, leaving fans buzzing with speculation about what was to come.
February: Road to WrestleMania Intensifies
As we moved into February, the Road to WrestleMania became the absolute centerpiece of WWE Raw. The stakes were higher than ever as superstars battled to solidify their place on the biggest show of the year. We saw Edge, fresh off his Royal Rumble victory, begin to strategically pick his opponent, setting his sights on the Universal Championship held by Roman Reigns. This created a massive buzz, as fans debated whether Edge would challenge Reigns on SmackDown or if there would be a monumental switch. Meanwhile, Bianca Belair was making it clear that she wanted a shot at the WWE Women's Championship, which was held by Sasha Banks at the time, setting up a potential clash of titans. The regular programming on Raw was filled with intense matches and compelling promos, building the narrative towards WrestleMania. Drew McIntyre, still reeling from his WWE Championship loss at Elimination Chamber (which also took place in Feb), was determined to regain his top prize, leading to a heated rivalry with The Miz and later, Bobby Lashley, who had cashed in his Money in the Bank contract. The Hurt Business, with MVP, Shelton Benjamin, Cedric Alexander, and Bobby Lashley, were a dominant force, and Lashley's rise to the top was a major storyline. Their faction's power play was a constant threat to the established order on Raw. The tag team division saw continued excitement, with teams jockeying for position and aiming for a tag team title opportunity at WrestleMania. The women's division also featured compelling storytelling, with champions defending their titles against hungry contenders. Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler, as the Women's Tag Team Champions, were a formidable duo, often clashing with other teams and showcasing their brutal in-ring style. The sheer intensity of the matches and the developing rivalries ensured that every episode of Raw was a must-watch. The Miz's comedic yet effective character work, especially his interactions with John Morrison, provided much-needed levity amidst the high-stakes drama. The emotional weight of seeing superstars like Drew McIntyre fight tooth and nail to reclaim their glory added a layer of grit to the shows. This month was all about building momentum, and WWE Raw certainly delivered, leaving fans breathless with anticipation for what WrestleMania would hold. The sheer volume of high-stakes matches and the clear-cut paths to championship glory made February a pivotal month in the 2021 WWE Raw calendar, setting the stage perfectly for the spectacle that was to come.
March: WrestleMania Builds to a Crescendo
March 2021 on WWE Raw was all about the final push towards WrestleMania. With the biggest event of the year just around the corner, every segment, every match, and every promo was dialed up to eleven. Drew McIntyre's quest to regain the WWE Championship from Bobby Lashley reached its peak. Their rivalry was intense, fueled by Lashley's opportunistic cash-in and McIntyre's determination to prove himself once again. The promos between these two were hard-hitting, with both men laying out their claims and their intentions. We also saw the Universal Championship picture solidify, although this primarily played out on SmackDown, the implications were felt across both brands as Edge continued his pursuit of Roman Reigns. For Raw, the focus was on the WWE Championship and the other marquee matches taking place. The Fiend continued his disturbing saga, and his encounters with Randy Orton were a twisted spectacle, culminating in their infamous Firefly Inferno Match at WrestleMania. The matches on Raw during March showcased the best of the roster, with veterans and rising stars alike delivering incredible performances. The tag team championships were also hotly contested, with The New Day often finding themselves in the thick of the title picture. The women's division saw exciting developments as well, with Rhea Ripley making her highly anticipated debut on the main roster, immediately inserting herself into the Raw Women's Championship scene against Asuka. This added a fresh and dynamic element to the championship chase. Braun Strowman, despite his sometimes polarizing character, was involved in a powerful feud leading up to WrestleMania, often showcasing his sheer destructive force. The sheer unpredictability of Raw during this period kept fans hooked. The Miz's comedic brilliance continued to shine, but he was also involved in serious storylines, demonstrating his versatility as a performer. The emotional stakes were incredibly high, as superstars poured their hearts out in their final attempts to build momentum. The hype surrounding WrestleMania was deafening, and Raw served as the perfect platform to amplify that excitement. The build-up was masterful, with WWE Raw consistently delivering thrilling television that had everyone counting down the days. The matches were not just about wins and losses; they were about telling stories and creating unforgettable moments that would be etched in wrestling history. The sheer anticipation for WrestleMania 37 was immense, and March on Raw was the catalyst that propelled that excitement to stratospheric levels, leaving no doubt that the Show of Shows would be an unforgettable spectacle.
April: WrestleMania Fallout and New Beginnings
April 2021 on WWE Raw was all about the aftermath of WrestleMania and the dawn of new eras. The biggest show of the year always leaves a significant impact, and Raw was where we saw the immediate fallout. Bobby Lashley stood tall as WWE Champion, and his reign was just beginning. Drew McIntyre, despite his loss, vowed to regain the title, setting up a potential rematch. The women's division saw significant changes as well. Rhea Ripley, after her impressive showing at WrestleMania, was firmly established as a top contender, setting her sights on the Raw Women's Championship. Charlotte Flair's status and her own championship aspirations also continued to be a major talking point. The Fiend, having suffered a brutal defeat, was undergoing a transformation, leaving fans to wonder what his next move would be. The post-WrestleMania landscape on Raw is always ripe for fresh storylines and new challengers. We saw the emergence of new stars and the re-establishment of others. Damian Priest, after a strong performance at WrestleMania, began to carve out his niche on Raw, often aligning with Bad Bunny initially before forging his own path. His high-energy style and charisma quickly made him a fan favorite. The tag team division also saw shifts, with champions defending their titles against new and determined challengers. The men's and women's tag team titles were always a focal point of excitement. Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler continued their reign as Women's Tag Team Champions, but faced increasing pressure from various teams. The sheer intensity of the matches in April was remarkable, as superstars looked to capitalize on their WrestleMania momentum or establish themselves in the new hierarchy. The Miz and John Morrison continued to provide entertaining segments, often finding themselves in comedic yet impactful situations that advanced their storylines. The post-WrestleMania period is a crucial time for WWE to introduce new narratives and solidify the direction for the next major events, and Raw in April 2021 did just that. It was a month of transition, where the dust settled from the spectacle of WrestleMania, and the stage was set for the next chapter of WWE's ongoing saga. The fresh faces and the shifting power dynamics promised an exciting few months ahead, making it a pivotal time for the brand.
May: Bobby Lashley's Dominance and Tag Team Turmoil
May 2021 on WWE Raw solidified Bobby Lashley's reign as a dominant WWE Champion. After his triumphant victory at WrestleMania, Lashley, with MVP and The Hurt Business by his side, was an almost unstoppable force. His matches were showcases of raw power and intensity, and he made it clear that he was the king of Monday Night Raw. Drew McIntyre remained his primary challenger, determined to reclaim the WWE Championship. Their rivalry was a classic battle of strength versus grit, and the anticipation for their eventual rematch was immense. The United States Championship picture was also heating up, with Damian Priest establishing himself as a formidable champion. His matches were often high-octane affairs, and he quickly became a fan favorite with his unique style and connection with the audience. The women's division continued to be a hotbed of activity. Rhea Ripley was a constant threat to the Raw Women's Champion, leading to captivating confrontations and intense matches. Charlotte Flair also remained a central figure, always lurking in the championship picture and capable of stealing the show at any moment. The tag team division was in a state of constant flux, with Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler holding onto the Women's Tag Team Championships, but facing challenges from a variety of hungry teams. On the men's side, various teams vied for the opportunity to challenge for the Raw Tag Team Championship, leading to exciting multi-team matches and unpredictable outcomes. The Miz and John Morrison continued to bring their unique brand of entertainment, often finding themselves involved in comedic yet impactful storylines that would sometimes unexpectedly lead to title opportunities. The sheer volume of high-quality wrestling throughout May was a testament to the talent on the Raw roster. Every episode delivered compelling action and engaging storylines, keeping viewers invested. The dominance of Bobby Lashley was a defining characteristic of the month, but the ongoing rivalries and the emergence of new contenders ensured that Raw remained unpredictable and exciting. The focus was on establishing Lashley as a major champion while simultaneously building new stars and storylines that would carry the brand forward. The month of May truly showcased the depth and talent of the WWE Raw roster, delivering consistent entertainment and setting the stage for the summer's biggest events.
June: A Summer of Intense Rivalries
June 2021 on WWE Raw ushered in a summer of intense rivalries and escalating tensions. Bobby Lashley continued his dominant run as WWE Champion, facing off against new and formidable challengers. His clashes were characterized by sheer power and an almost unbreakable aura of invincibility. However, the landscape began to shift as Brock Lesnar's potential return loomed, creating an underlying tension and speculation among the WWE Universe. Drew McIntyre remained a constant thorn in Lashley's side, determined to regain the championship he felt was stolen from him. Their rivalry was a defining narrative of the summer. In the women's division, the Raw Women's Championship picture was more dynamic than ever. Rhea Ripley and Charlotte Flair continued their bitter feud, engaging in brutal matches that left fans breathless. The stakes were incredibly high, and their rivalry was one of the highlights of the year. Damian Priest was establishing himself as a significant force as United States Champion, defending his title against a variety of hungry contenders. His matches were always high-energy and entertaining, solidifying his status as a top star. The tag team divisions, both men's and women's, saw fierce competition. Teams battled relentlessly for supremacy, leading to exciting matches and unpredictable championship changes. AJ Styles and Omos formed a dominant force in the men's tag team division, showcasing their unique chemistry and power. On the women's side, Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler continued to be a formidable presence, but faced increasing challenges. The sheer quality of in-ring action throughout June was exceptional. Superstars were pulling out all the stops, knowing that the summer months were crucial for building momentum towards major pay-per-view events. The storylines were gripping, and the rivalries felt deeply personal, adding an extra layer of intensity to every segment. The Miz and John Morrison continued to provide their signature blend of comedy and chaos, often impacting the main storylines in unexpected ways. June on Raw was a testament to the dedication and talent of the roster, delivering consistently thrilling television that kept fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating what the summer would bring. The stage was perfectly set for a summer of epic battles and unforgettable moments.
July: A Pivotal Month for SummerSlam
July 2021 on WWE Raw was a pivotal month in the build-up to SummerSlam, the second biggest event of the year. The storylines intensified, and the stakes were raised across the board as superstars aimed to make their mark on the road to Nashville. Bobby Lashley continued his dominant WWE Championship reign, but the looming threat of Brock Lesnar's return cast a long shadow. The WWE Universe was buzzing with anticipation for a potential showdown between these two titans. Drew McIntyre was still firmly in the championship picture, seeking retribution against Lashley and aiming to reclaim his title. The Raw Women's Championship scene was as captivating as ever. Rhea Ripley and Charlotte Flair's intense rivalry continued to boil, with their matches often being brutal affairs that left a lasting impact. The anticipation for their potential SummerSlam encounter was palpable. Damian Priest, as the United States Champion, faced increasingly tough competition, showcasing his resilience and determination. His matches were always an exciting display of athleticism and aggression. The tag team divisions were a constant source of excitement. AJ Styles and Omos were a dominant force in the men's tag team division, and their reign presented a significant challenge for any team aiming for the gold. On the women's side, the competition was fierce, with various teams vying for the Women's Tag Team Championships. The intensity of the matches on Raw throughout July was remarkable. Superstars understood the importance of building momentum towards SummerSlam, and every bout felt meaningful. The promos and segments were designed to heighten the drama, creating compelling narratives that drew viewers in. The Miz and John Morrison's antics continued to inject humor and unpredictability into the shows, often playing a crucial role in advancing larger storylines. July was a critical month for establishing the major matches and feuds that would define SummerSlam. The show consistently delivered high-octane action and engaging storytelling, ensuring that the WWE Universe was on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the events to unfold in Nashville. The groundwork laid in July was essential for the massive spectacle that SummerSlam promised to be, making it a truly unforgettable month for WWE Raw.
August: SummerSlam Shocks and Reigns Supreme
August 2021 on WWE Raw was dominated by the explosive events of SummerSlam and its immediate aftermath. The anticipation for SummerSlam had been building for months, and the event itself delivered some truly shocking and memorable moments. Brock Lesnar's triumphant return was a seismic event, and his confrontation with Roman Reigns set the stage for one of the biggest rivalries of the year. On the Raw side, the fallout from SummerSlam reverberated throughout the month. Bobby Lashley's WWE Championship reign faced new challenges, and the landscape of the top male title was in flux. Damian Priest continued to impress as the United States Champion, defending his title with grit and determination against a host of talented competitors. His matches were always a highlight, showcasing his unique blend of power and agility. The women's division saw shifts in the Raw Women's Championship picture. Charlotte Flair and Rhea Ripley's intense rivalry may have culminated, but new challengers were emerging, ready to stake their claim to the title. Becky Lynch's highly anticipated return to WWE at SummerSlam was a monumental moment, immediately shaking up the women's division on both Raw and SmackDown. Her presence promised new dream matches and intense feuds. The tag team divisions remained a focal point of excitement. AJ Styles and Omos continued their dominant run as Raw Tag Team Champions, proving to be a formidable pairing. However, other teams were constantly vying for an opportunity to dethrone them. On the women's side, the Women's Tag Team Championship picture was constantly evolving, with various duos battling for supremacy. The in-ring action throughout August was top-notch, with superstars looking to capitalize on the momentum generated by SummerSlam or establish themselves in the post-SummerSlam landscape. The promos and storylines were compelling, delving into the immediate consequences of the major event and setting the stage for future conflicts. The Miz and John Morrison continued to be a source of unpredictable entertainment, their segments often playing a vital role in the unfolding narratives. August was a month defined by the seismic shifts following SummerSlam, with new rivalries igniting and established stars continuing to battle for supremacy, making it a truly captivating period for WWE Raw.
September: Becky Lynch's Reign and New Challengers Emerge
September 2021 on WWE Raw marked the beginning of Becky Lynch's dominant reign as the Raw Women's Champion and the emergence of new challengers eager to dethrone her. After her explosive return at SummerSlam, Becky wasted no time in asserting her dominance, immediately making a statement and setting the tone for her championship run. The entire women's division was put on notice. Bianca Belair, still reeling from her SummerSlam loss, was determined to get back into the championship picture, setting up a compelling rematch narrative. Sasha Banks also remained a constant threat, always looking for an opportunity to reclaim the gold she felt was rightfully hers. The men's division saw Damian Priest continuing his strong United States Championship reign, facing off against a variety of talented opponents who were determined to end his time as champion. His matches were always exciting displays of athleticism and power, solidifying his status as a top star. The Raw Tag Team Championship picture was as competitive as ever. AJ Styles and Omos continued to be a dominant force, but teams like The Mysterios and others were constantly looking for opportunities to challenge for the titles. The sheer intensity of the tag team division always provided exciting matchups. The emotional weight of the storylines increased throughout September. Edge, after his return, was involved in powerful feuds that showcased his veteran presence and ability to tell a compelling story in the ring. The promos and segments were designed to build anticipation for upcoming matches, with superstars laying out their challenges and intentions. The Miz and John Morrison continued to provide their unique brand of entertainment, often finding themselves involved in situations that, while comedic, had significant implications for the broader storylines. September was a month of transition and consolidation, where new champions solidified their reigns and established stars continued to assert their dominance, making it a crucial period for setting the stage for the remainder of the year. The focus was on building new rivalries and solidifying the hierarchy within the Raw roster, ensuring that the momentum from SummerSlam carried through. The emergence of new challengers and the continuation of established feuds made September a must-watch month for any wrestling fan.
October: Build-up to Crown Jewel and Championship Clashes
October 2021 on WWE Raw was all about the crucial build-up to Crown Jewel, the major event in Saudi Arabia, and the escalating championship clashes that defined the month. The stakes were incredibly high as superstars vied for bragging rights and championship gold on the international stage. Becky Lynch continued her formidable reign as Raw Women's Champion, but the challenge from emerging stars like Bianca Belair and the ever-present threat of Sasha Banks kept the division incredibly competitive. Every match involving these women was a potential show-stealer. In the men's division, Damian Priest continued to defend his United States Championship with ferocity. His matches were known for their high-octane action and the determination of his opponents to snatch the title away. The Raw Tag Team Championship scene remained a hotbed of activity. AJ Styles and Omos were still a dominant force, but the hunger of other teams to achieve championship glory was evident in every contest. The King of the Ring and Queen's Crown tournaments also took center stage, providing opportunities for new superstars to rise and make a name for themselves on the big stage. These tournaments always add an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability to the programming. The intensity of the rivalries was amplified as the Crown Jewel event approached. Promos became more aggressive, and the matches featured a greater sense of urgency. Edge was involved in a significant feud leading up to Crown Jewel, showcasing his veteran prowess and ability to captivate an audience. The Miz and John Morrison continued to provide their signature blend of comedic relief and surprising plot twists, often finding themselves entangled in the main storylines in unexpected ways. October was a month where the intensity was dialed up to the maximum, with every Raw episode serving as a critical stepping stone towards Crown Jewel. The championship matches were epic, and the tournament action provided fresh narratives, making it a truly captivating period for WWE programming. The focus was on showcasing the top talent and building maximum excitement for the major international event.
November: Survivor Series Showdown and Championship Dominance
November 2021 on WWE Raw was dominated by the epic showdown at Survivor Series and the continued championship dominance across the brand. Survivor Series is always a traditional battleground between Raw and SmackDown, and this year was no different, with intense inter-promotional rivalries taking center stage. Becky Lynch, as the Raw Women's Champion, was a central figure, leading her team and defending the honor of Monday Night Raw against the blue brand. The United States Championship picture remained highly competitive, with Damian Priest often finding himself defending his title in high-stakes matches, showcasing his resilience and championship mettle. The Raw Tag Team Championship scene saw continued intense competition, with teams battling fiercely for the opportunity to hold the prestigious titles. AJ Styles and Omos maintained their powerful presence, but the challenge from other formidable duos kept the division dynamic. The King of the Ring and Queen's Crown tournaments concluded, crowning new champions and establishing new stars who would undoubtedly impact the roster in the coming months. The fallout from Survivor Series also set the stage for new feuds and re-ignited old rivalries. The sheer intensity of the matches throughout November was a testament to the talent and dedication of the Raw roster. Every episode delivered compelling action and engaging storylines, keeping viewers invested. The championship picture remained a focal point, with reigning champions looking to solidify their legacies and challengers eager to seize their moment. The Miz and John Morrison continued to provide their unique blend of entertainment, often finding themselves in situations that, while comedic, had significant implications for the broader storylines and championship pursuits. November was a month where the culmination of major tournaments and the intense rivalries of Survivor Series ensured that Raw delivered consistently thrilling television, building significant momentum towards the end-of-year pay-per-views and setting the stage for the final push of 2021.
December: Year-End Recap and Looking Ahead to 2022
As 2021 drew to a close, December on WWE Raw served as a year-end recap and a look ahead to 2022. The final episodes of the year focused on wrapping up ongoing storylines, celebrating the achievements of superstars throughout 2021, and planting the seeds for future conflicts. Becky Lynch continued her reign as Raw Women's Champion, facing off against determined challengers who were eager to end her championship run and start the new year as champions themselves. The United States Championship scene saw new contenders emerge, with various superstars vying for the opportunity to hold that prestigious title heading into 2022. The Raw Tag Team Championship picture remained a hotbed of activity, with teams battling to end the year on a high note and carry that momentum into the new year. The Day 1 pay-per-view loomed, and the build-up to this major event began in earnest throughout December, with significant matches being made and rivalries escalating. The WrestleMania picture for 2022 also began to take shape, with early indications and potential contenders emerging from the fallout of December's events. The final shows of the year provided opportunities for superstars to make bold statements and leave a lasting impression. The Miz and John Morrison continued to be a source of unpredictable entertainment, their segments often providing memorable moments that closed out the year on a lighthearted note, or sometimes, surprisingly impacting the main storylines. December was a month for reflection on the incredible year that was 2021, highlighting the standout performances, the memorable matches, and the championship reigns that defined the year. It also served as a crucial launchpad for the excitement and anticipation of what 2022 would bring to Monday Night Raw. The groundwork laid in December ensured that the WWE Universe was primed for another year of thrilling action, unexpected twists, and unforgettable moments in the world of professional wrestling. It was a fitting conclusion to a memorable year and an exciting prelude to the future.
Conclusion: A Landmark Year for WWE Raw
In conclusion, 2021 was a landmark year for WWE Raw, filled with unforgettable moments, shocking twists, and the rise of new stars. From the Royal Rumble chaos to the epic showdowns at SummerSlam and Survivor Series, each month brought its own unique brand of excitement. We witnessed dominant championship reigns, intense rivalries that captivated audiences, and the continued evolution of the WWE landscape. The superstars of Raw consistently delivered thrilling in-ring action and compelling storylines, ensuring that Monday nights remained appointment television for wrestling fans around the globe. As we look back, it's clear that 2021 was a year of significant change and unforgettable drama. The seeds planted throughout the year have set the stage for an even more exciting future, and the WWE Universe can rest assured that Monday Night Raw will continue to deliver the action, drama, and entertainment they've come to expect. Keep tuning in, guys, because the journey is far from over!