WWE Raw Review (December 1, 2025): Survivor Series Fallout and Fresh Storyline Momentum

The December 1, 2025 episode of WWE Raw, reviewed by WhatCulture Wrestling’s Adam Wilbourn, Michael Hamflett, and Michael Sidgwick, provided a much-needed reset after Survivor Series and WarGames, delivering fresh programming with renewed purpose amid long-running main event arcs involving CM Punk, Roman Reigns, and The Judgment Day faction.

Opening Segments Set the Tone

The show opened with Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky addressing the crowd post-Survivor Series, vowing revenge on The Kabuki Warriors who betrayed them. However, former tag champions Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss appeared, asserting their claim for the titles in a clash of strong women’s factions. The tension laid groundwork for a tag title contention match.

Adam Pearce’s office promos underscored escalating stakes, including a face-off involving Paul Heyman, Bron Breaker, and Austin Theory, revealing Theory’s innocence in the Survivor Series mystery attack while setting an evolving path in the world title picture.

Tournament and Key Matches Elevate Rivalries

A highlight was the semifinal John Cena Invitational tournament match between Jey Uso and LA Knight. The bout delivered solid action with signature moves like the Burning Hammer from Knight and multiple high-flying spots from Uso. Knight advanced, saving his own spot in the finals and setting the stage for a coveted title shot.

The episode showed Uso’s visible frustration and insecurity post-match, highlighted in a candid backstage interview where he blamed himself for recent failures, deepening his character’s narrative arc and tension with Roman Reigns and The Vision faction.​

Judgment Day and Women’s Division Drama

The Judgment Day faction promo segment highlighted ongoing rivalries and power dynamics, including the undercurrent of discontent within the stable. Liv Morgan’s much-anticipated return was teased with a striking entrance, laying plans for her feud and alliance dynamics alongside Dominik Mysterio, building toward WrestleMania season.

The women’s division was in focus with Bailey and Lyra Valkyria pushing for tag title shots against The Kabuki Warriors, who blamed Bailey for causing issues at WarGames, adding layers to the competition and animosity.

Post-Match and Fallout: Character Depth and Plot Progression

The show spotlighted tense moments such as Jey Uso slumping post-loss and storming off, conveying burnout and vulnerability previously unseen. The commentary noted a recurring booking pattern where some talent disappear after losses only to reappear requesting shots, showing inconsistency in storytelling.

Liv Morgan’s promo underlined judgment day’s resurgence and internal struggles, while Dominik Mysterio’s subdued celebration of his victory over John Cena hinted at working towards a gradual, compelling build rather than a showy boast.

Overall Impressions and Fan Reaction

The Raw review emphasized its reputation as an easy watch, refreshing after prior rinse-repeat episodes, praising renewed purpose across multiple storylines, lightweight but effective promos, and emerging character depth. However, vocal critiques targeted certain booking choices, including over-reliance on distractions or confusing finishes, especially in tag and midcard divisions.

The show continued pushing key WrestleMania and tournament storylines with measured pacing, intending to balance character development and action in the buildup to major pay-per-views. Fans were excited by Liv Morgan’s impactful return and intrigued by evolving Judgment Day dynamics.