WWE Raw Delivers Shock Title Change

WWE Raw delivered a major title change on Monday night, as one of the brand’s top prizes changed hands in dramatic fashion amid growing tension within one of the company’s most dominant factions.

A new Intercontinental Champion was crowned on Monday night as Penta defeated Dominik Mysterio to capture the title for the first time. The finish saw tension within Judgment Day play a decisive role. After sending Penta shoulder-first into the ring post, Mysterio called for the ring bell hammer and looked to his stablemates Finn Balor and JD McDonagh for assistance.

McDonagh moved to retrieve the weapon, but Balor stopped him, insisting that this was something Mysterio needed to handle on his own. Moments later, Penta wiped out both men with a dive to the outside, returned to the ring, avoided a 619 attempt, and connected with a Mexican Destroyer to secure the pinfall victory.

Mysterio’s reign dates back to Survivor Series, where he defeated John Cena to win the championship. Aside from Cena’s brief stint with the gold, Mysterio had effectively held the title since last year’s WrestleMania.

How Penta Became The Number One Contender On WWE Raw

Penta earned his opportunity by defeating El Grande Americano last month on WWE Raw to become the number one contender. Earlier in the night, Mysterio had sought reassurance from Balor and McDonagh about their presence at ringside. While McDonagh agreed immediately, Balor was initially reluctant before eventually consenting after Mysterio claimed he simply wanted them there to celebrate.

Judgment Day also had an uneasy backstage encounter with WWE newcomer Danhausen prior to the bout, which ended with Danhausen placing a “curse” on Mysterio. Whether coincidence or not, the curse appeared to come true as Penta walked out with the Intercontinental Championship.