WWE Raw faced challenges in its first episode of 2026, airing on January 12. Following a lackluster start to the year, the show struggled to meet expectations, continuing a trend of underwhelming performances. The opening segment employed familiar tropes that detracted from the overall quality, leading to a series of matches that failed to resonate with viewers.
The show began with a match that, despite being well-executed, felt like a mere collection of high spots rather than a cohesive storyline. This approach undermined the significance of a mini-program featuring Finn Balor and CM Punk. Balor, who has won only two televised singles matches in the past 28 months, managed to provoke Punk into agreeing to a World Heavyweight Championship match. This development raised eyebrows, as it appeared to diminish the integrity of the title chase.
Another notable incident involved the Women’s Champion, who was ambushed moments after an intense stare-down with her challenger. This surprising attack highlighted a lack of situational awareness that was difficult to overlook. Additionally, WWE announced a rematch for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship, which many fans viewed as a diminishing return on a previously interesting storyline.
Key Highlights and Noteworthy Performances
Despite these setbacks, WWE Raw did manage to showcase some positive elements. The debut of Je’Von Evans marked a significant moment for the promotion. Evans, who was signed just a week prior during a commercial break, made a successful television appearance, hinting at future potential for his character.
The episode was anchored by a compelling main event featuring Gunther and AJ Styles. This match stood out as a highlight, with Gunther utilizing clever tactics to secure a victory over Styles. The dynamic between the two wrestlers provided a much-needed boost to the overall quality of the show.
In summary, while WWE Raw’s January 12 episode included some bright spots, it overall fell short of expectations. The company will soon shift its focus towards the Road to WrestleMania, an event that traditionally generates excitement and momentum among fans. As the season progresses, there is hope that WWE can address its current shortcomings and deliver engaging content leading up to one of its biggest events of the year.
