WWE Raw’s first episode of 2026, held on January 12, did not meet the expectations set by the company. Following a disappointing debut last week, this week’s show featured a series of questionable decisions that hindered its overall quality. The episode opened with a sequence of familiar tropes that ultimately led to a match characterized more by choreographed stunts than compelling storytelling.
One significant storyline involved Finn Balor, who managed to provoke CM Punk into agreeing to a World Heavyweight Championship match. This occurred despite Balor’s underwhelming record of only two televised singles victories in the past 28 months. Such a development raises concerns about the credibility of championship opportunities within the promotion.
Additionally, the episode featured a chaotic moment where a world champion was ambushed mere seconds after addressing her challenger. This incident highlighted a lack of situational awareness that detracted from the professionalism expected in high-stakes matches. To compound the issue, WWE announced a rematch for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship, which has drawn criticism for its diminishing returns in viewer engagement.
Despite these setbacks, Raw did take a positive step by showcasing Je’Von Evans in a match just one week after signing him during a commercial break. This move indicates a willingness to integrate new talent into the show, albeit under less-than-ideal circumstances.
The main event featured Gunther defending his title against AJ Styles. This match stood out as a highlight of the night, with Gunther employing strategic tactics to secure victory. The dynamic between the two wrestlers added a layer of intrigue that was otherwise lacking in the earlier segments of the show.
Overall, WWE Raw’s latest episode proved to be another disappointing installment. While it included some positive moments, the execution of key storylines and match setups fell short of audience expectations. As the promotion gears up for the Road to WrestleMania, fans will be hoping for a more cohesive and engaging product in the weeks to come.
