:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58173397/DSgGbWoUEAEehRo.0.jpg)
The first WWE women’s match of 2018 featured champion Alexa Bliss and unbeaten challenger Asuka going toe to toe for nearly 15 minutes of ring time.
In a non-title match made by Raw GM Kurt Angle, Bliss stepped up but Asuka came out on top. The Raw’s women champion did have her moments but this match was all about Asuka.
The match opened with Asuka beating up Bliss in every corner of the ring.
What is going through @AlexaBliss_WWE's mind right now?
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 2, 2018
"CALM DOWN!" most likely... #RAW #AlexavsAsuka pic.twitter.com/0d1CfpyvaZ
Don't interrupt @WWEAsuka's dancing. #AsukaDance pic.twitter.com/XRKGH5nSsU
— TDE Wrestling (@totaldivaseps) January 2, 2018
The #EmpressOfTomorrow is out to show #RAW #WomensChampion @AlexaBliss_WWE why NO ONE IS READY for @WWEAsuka! #AlexavsAsuka pic.twitter.com/4Hs1gF4ZOQ
— WWE (@WWE) January 2, 2018
Bliss’ best moments came after Asuka injured herself running into the turnbuckle. Bliss rally didn’t last long but it did feature some nice submission spots from the champion.
The MEAN STREAK of @AlexaBliss_WWE has come to life...and she's TAKING IT to @WWEAsuka! #RAW #AlexavsAsuka pic.twitter.com/2zKqD6H596
— WWE (@WWE) January 2, 2018
The night would end for Bliss after she ate a nasty knee to the face and was rolled up into a quick armbar tapout.
BOOM. #AlexavsAsuka #RAW @WWEAsuka pic.twitter.com/ucw41wPcin
— Italo Santana (@BulletClubItal) January 2, 2018
.@WWEAsuka HAS MADE THE CHAMP TAP OUT #AlexavsAsuka #RAW pic.twitter.com/sh4aKtPUZ5
— Italo Santana (@BulletClubItal) January 2, 2018
Is a regime change atop the women’s division coming sooner than later? How long can the WWE keep the belt off Asuka?