Corey Graves namedropped the great Hiroshi Tanahashi on RAW following the legend’s retirement, as a WWE star would use his signature move and pay tribute to him in the process.
This was during the opening match of RAW on Netflix’s first anniversary. To kick things off and celebrate the first anniversary of RAW on Netflix, we got the Women’s World Tag Team Titles on the line in a highly-anticipated clash between Rhiyo, i.e, Rhea Ripley, and Iyo Sky, against The Kabuki Warriors, who have been the reigning Champions for a while now. Since it was the first RAW of the year, it made sense to kick things off with a huge title match, and just like we saw on SmackDown, a huge title change as well.
Thanks for the submission!
During the match, Iyo Sky hit a move that was a signature of Hiroshi Tanahashi, who just called it quits on a legendary 26+ year career. Following his retirement, a lot of outpouring of love was sent towards the man who many consider to be one of the most successful wrestlers of the 21st century, and in many ways, was the John Cena of New Japan Pro Wrestling. As Iyo Sky paid tribute to him, Corey Graves namedropped Hiroshi Tanahashi.
Ultimately, it wouldn’t be the defining moment of the match, but it would be a setup for the eventual victory for Iyo Sky and Rhea Ripley, who are now the new WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions. This comes following a title reign from The Kabuki Warriors, who were multi-time Champions. Either way, it was a great way to kick the year off on Monday Night RAW, and it was also great to see the legendary Hiroshi Tanahashi being mentioned on WWE television. It isn’t often you hear NJPW references on WWE TV, and it is usually reserved for former NJPW stars who have had a lot of accolades in the promotion.
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Edited by Rohit Nath
