Raw Five-Point Preview: Dec. 16, 2013

In one of the biggest matches in WWE history, Randy Orton was crowned the WWE World Heavyweight Champion after an epic battle with John Cena during Sunday night’s WWE TLC. Day one of a new era in WWE begins tonight on Raw with Randy Orton's Champion of Champions Coronation Ceremony. Here are five reasons to tune in at 8/7 CT on USA Network.

1. Unbreakable bond

Together, Cody Rhodes & Goldust earned their jobs back in WWE. And together, they emerged victorious after a fast-paced Fatal 4-Way Elimination Match at WWE TLC.  Up against the likes of Big Show & Rey Mysterio, Ryback & Curtis Axel and The Real Americans, the Rhodes brothers found a way to persevere and retain the WWE Tag Team Titles during the final pay-per-view of the year.

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2. Bryan on the verge of giving in?

Physically overmatched by a trifecta of opponents, Daniel Bryan gave it his all against The Wyatt Family in a 3-on-1 Handicap Match at WWE TLC. After holding his own against Erick Rowan and Luke Harper, the Slammy Award-winning Superstar of the Year  was unable to overcome the creepy clan leader, who continued to urge Bryan into joining his family throughout the match. On Raw, will the trio continue in their quest of getting the bearded Superstar to become part of their flock?

3. Is Roman Reigns The Shield’s weak link?

Roman Reigns is often described as The Shield’s “muscle.” Yet at WWE TLC, when the pivotal member threw caution to the wind and attempted a flying spear across the announce table, he wound up with a nasty gash near his eye. Still affected  by the injury , he mistakenly speared his own partner, U.S. Champion Dean Ambrose, which allowed CM Punk to capitalize and get the pinfall. Has Punk uncovered the code to beating The Shield?

4. Start of a streak?

In November, Big E Langston used his massive might to capture the Intercontinental Title in commanding fashion from third-generation Superstar Curtis Axel. During the final pay-per-view of 2013, Langston successfully defended his title against the formidable Damien Sandow. Perhaps no one is riding a bigger wave of momentum into 2014 than Big E. Matching his might seems almost implausible. Implausible – though perhaps not impossible.

5. Dawn of a new WWE

WWE COO Triple H dubbed Sunday’s contest to determine the Champion of Champions the biggest in WWE history, and the Tables, Ladders and Chairs Match between John Cena and Randy Orton at WWE TLC did not disappoint. Handcuffing Cena to the ropes, the cunning Viper laid the groundwork for his history-changing victory. Although The Authority — including Mr. McMahon himself — emerged and showed their respect for the new World Heavyweight Champion. Although Raw is slated to begin with Orton's Champion of Champions Coronation Ceremony, the question remains: How long will it take before they decide it's time to put their standard-bearer to the test?

Be sure to catch tonight's Raw at 8/7 CT on USA Network.