Bayley Earns Championship Opportunity After Gauntlet Match Victory

Bayley emerged victorious from a grueling No. 1 Contender’s Gauntlet Match on Monday’s Raw, securing a shot at AJ Lee’s Women’s Intercontinental Championship next week in San Antonio.

Gauntlet Match Recap

The Gauntlet Match saw Bayley defeat Asuka, Ivy Nile, Iyo Sky, Raquel Rodriguez, and Lyra Valkyria. Iyo Sky initially defeated Lyra Valkyria with an Over the Moonsault. A distraction caused by Liv Morgan and Stephanie Vaquer allowed Sky to eliminate Raquel Rodriguez, but Ivy Nile capitalized on a prone Sky to score a pinfall.

Bayley overcame Ivy Nile with a Bayley to Belly, setting up a final showdown with Asuka. The match between the former world champions concluded with Lyra Valkyria interfering and taking out Kairi Sane, allowing Bayley to deliver the Rose Plant to Asuka for the win.

Key Moments and Storylines

The Usos hinted at a response to CM Punk’s recent comments about Roman Reigns’ late father, Sika, potentially reigniting Bloodline tensions.¹

The match flow, including a commercial break during Sky and Valkyria’s bout, drew some criticism. Liv Morgan’s involvement continued a narrative suggesting she is undermining Raquel Rodriguez’s career.

Ivy Nile’s performance against Sky was highlighted, with a call for WWE Creative to build more consistent momentum for her character.

The long-standing in-ring chemistry between Bayley and Asuka was noted, despite it being only their seventh singles match across all WWE brands.

Bayley vs. AJ Lee: A Dream Match Realized

The upcoming match between Bayley and AJ Lee is particularly significant, as Bayley has openly expressed her admiration for Lee and her desire to compete against her.¹

¹ Source: Revelleution