WWE Raw Season 5 Episode 1 January 6, 1997

On January 6, 1997, WWE Raw kicked off its highly anticipated fifth season with an electrifying episode that left fans on the edge of their seats. As the flagship show of the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), Raw delivered its signature blend of enthralling storytelling, jaw-dropping athleticism, and larger-than-life characters.

The episode began with the mesmerizing pyrotechnics and roaring crowd that have become synonymous with WWE events. The energy in the arena was palpable as the enthusiastic audience eagerly awaited the night's action-packed lineup. With a stacked roster of talented superstars, viewers knew they were in for an unforgettable evening.

As the show got underway, legendary announcer Jim Ross and his charismatic co-host Jerry "The King" Lawler welcomed fans to the broadcast. Their captivating commentary set the stage for the thrilling matches and dramatic storylines that would unfold throughout the night.

The first match of the evening featured two rising stars, Marc Mero and Leif Cassidy. Both competitors showcased their incredible athleticism and determination, pulling out all the stops to secure a victory. The fast-paced action had the crowd on their feet, cheering and chanting for their favorite wrestler. With each near-fall and high-flying maneuver, the intensity in the arena continued to grow.

Following the exhilarating opening match, Raw transitioned into an unforgettable backstage segment. WWE's resident troublemaker, Stone Cold Steve Austin, confronted the Chairman of WWE, Vince McMahon. The tension between the two electrified the screen as Austin delivered his trademark brash and defiant attitude. The confrontation left fans speculating about the potential repercussions it would have on future storylines.

In a surprising turn of events, a thrilling tag team match followed the backstage confrontation. The mysterious duo of The Undertaker and a young and promising Triple H joined forces against their formidable opponents: Savio Vega and Crush. The contrasting styles and dynamic chemistry of the teams made for an engaging battle that had the audience enthralled. The match showcased the athleticism and technical prowess of all the competitors, leaving fans eager to see what would happen next in their respective journeys.

WWE Raw continued to captivate viewers with its compelling narratives, transitioning from high-octane matches to intense backstage segments. One particular segment involved WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels, who was amidst a heated feud with his former best friend, Triple H. The confrontation between the two charismatic superstars escalated tensions, foreshadowing a clash that would captivate fans for weeks to come.

In addition to the thrilling in-ring action, WWE Raw always ensured it provided fans with larger-than-life characters. This episode saw the introduction of a captivating new personality known as "The Sultan." A masked powerhouse with an enigmatic aura, The Sultan grabbed the attention of the WWE Universe, instantly becoming a figure of intrigue.

The episode continued to deliver memorable matchups and shocking twists throughout the night. With each contest, audiences were treated to a mix of technical wrestling skills, high-flying maneuvers, and hard-hitting brawls, all accompanied by the passionate reactions of the crowd. From the Cruiserweights to the Heavyweights, WWE Raw showcased the diversity of its talent and the extraordinary athleticism of its roster.

As the show drew to a close, fans were left eagerly anticipating the next episode, hungry for more of the captivating storylines, heart-stopping matches, and unforgettable moments that have made WWE Raw an entertainment phenomenon. The first episode of the fifth season served as a testament to the show's enduring popularity and its ability to captivate audiences through its exceptional blend of athleticism, storytelling, and larger-than-life characters.