2025 Night of Champions Review

Last Saturday was WWE’s Night of Champions where there was some interesting results that came out of the event, so let’s get right into the review with RHR match rating for each bout.

King of the Ring Final: Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton

Opening the show with Cody and Orton was a surprise, but it proved to be an excellent way to get the crowd energized right from the start. Cody’s unexpected aggression throughout this match was a nice twist in the match, which was excellent. Orton’s hesitation before attempting the punt kick was another fun wrinkle into the finish was cleverly executed, Orton’s attempt to expose the turnbuckle backfired, giving Rhodes the victory and a possibility of Orton turning back to unhinged ways after this loss. This was a good change-of-pace wrestling match that maybe set the bar too high for the following matches.

RHR Rating: 3.75/5

Rhea Ripley vs. Raquel Rodriguez – Street Fight

This match showcased probably the best performance we’ve seen from Raquel Rodriguez in quite some time, reminiscent of her NXT run. However, Rhea Ripley continues to operate in a stratosphere of her own, her presence is unmatched. While the match was pretty basic for a street fight, it was surprising to see WWE allow Ripley to whip Rodriguez with a studded belt. Roxanne Perez’s interference attempts to help Rodriguez ultimately proved ineffective, as Ripley secured the victory with a devastating avalanche Riptide from the top rope.

RHR Rating: 2.25/5

 Karrion Kross vs. Sami Zayn

Seeing Karrion Kross return with his full NXT entrance presentation was refreshing and even the Saudi Arabian crowd responded to Kross which was telling. Sami Zayn’s connection with international audiences continues to be remarkable; the genuine appreciation from this particular crowd is always remarkable. There seems to be a promising theme emerging with both Kross and Rodriguez returning to their NXT form on this major show. Kross delivered a strong performance even in defeat, and hopefully this feud will continue to develop throughout the summer.

RHR Rating: 3/5

United States Championship: Jacob Fatu vs. Solo Sikoa

The fact that Jacob Fatu not only holds the US Championship but is competing on a premium live event in Saudi Arabia is truly incredible. This was a solid match that overdelivered. The return of Tonga Loa to assist Sikoa wasn’t enough to secure victory, but the long-awaited debut of Hikuleo stunned the crowd while helping Sikoa capture the win and become the new United States Champion. This victory appears to be forming a newer version of Solo’s Bloodline faction while leaving Fatu with no backup for now.

RHR Rating: 3.25/5

 Queen of the Ring Final: Jade Cargill vs. Asuka

Heading into this match, I expected it to be the show stealer and let’s just say that didn’t happen. Jade Cargill looked absolutely phenomenal, a true box office attraction with movie star presence. It’s fascinating to imagine what it might have been if she had remained with AEW. Seeing Asuka back in the ring was a total joy, but something was a bit off with a returning Asuka and an inexperience Cargill.  Unfortunately, the match itself was the disappointing match of the show rather than the show stealer I anticipated. The ending was deflating, and the crowd’s lukewarm reaction reflected this sentiment. However, Jade earning a title shot at Summerslam should prove interesting and another test if she is ready for that stage in the ring.

RHR Rating: 2/5

 Undisputed WWE Championship: John Cena vs. CM Punk

This match featured perhaps the two loudest crowd reactions of the entire night. Even in Saudi Arabia, the audience clearly recognized “Cult of Personality,” and their enthusiasm for Punk was awesome. When Cena made his entrance, the crowd somehow got even louder, just a testament to the energetic Saudi Arabian audiences that WWE consistently delivers for every show over there.

The match itself was great as usual, with both men displaying magical chemistry. Things got interesting when Seth Rollins and his alliance came to ringside, possibly positioning for a cash-in opportunity. When Cena took out the referee, the situation became chaotic. Penta and Sami Zayn emerged to neutralize Bron Breakker, but this still left Bronson Reed in the equation. Punk and Cena managed to eliminate Reed, preserving the one-on-one dynamic.

In a moment of sportsmanship, Punk extended his hand for a handshake. Cena attempted a low blow, but Punk blocked it. However, Rollins struck Punk, allowing Cena to capitalize, steal the victory, and escape before Rollins could execute his cash-in, effectively ruining both Rollins’ and Paul Heyman’s plans.

RHR Rating: 3.5/5

Overall Show Rating: 3/5

 Additional Thoughts

The announcement that next year’s Royal Rumble will be held in Saudi Arabia raises questions about WWE’s international expansion. While this could mean that marquee events like WrestleMania and SummerSlam might eventually follow suit, some of us believe certain flagship events should remain on American soil.

The decision to book another late-night event with Tony Hinchcliffe is puzzling, especially given the disaster that occurred during WrestleMania weekend. It seems like lessons weren’t learned from that previous misstep as well as feels like another choice made in a echo chamber like so many others that are happening in our world today.