The December 22 episode of WWE Monday Night Raw, held at the Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan, was an exciting action-packed show as WWE set the stage for the Royal Rumble and championship event in early 2026.
The Christmas-time episode mixed old rivalries with new momentum on the red brand, as World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk returned to the ring with the legendary Rey Mysterio, and the young talent made great impressions.
The opening matches set the tone with skill and intensity
The program featured several impressive matches and segments that garnered attention. Asuka began the night by defeating Rhea Ripley in a tight singles match, showcasing her artistic skills and ease in the ring.
Ja’Von Evans picked up a nice win against Rayo Americano, and Bayley picked up a win over Roxanne Perez, as well as some tension between Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez, which enriched the storylines in the women’s division. Gunther was also present, mocking the audience and receiving negative reactions as his feud with CM Punk continued to heat up.
Main event jolted as alliances change and titles come into focus
In the main event, longtime friends and partners, CM Punk and Rey Mysterio took on The Vision’s Bronson Reed and Austin Theory. Theory, recently revealed as the secret man assisting The Vision, performed above expectations and overpowered Mysterio after delivering his famous Stomp, giving his group the victory.
After the match, Braun Breaker hit Punk with a brutal spear from behind, solidifying his challenge for the World Heavyweight Championship on the January 5 Raw in Brooklyn. The last scene of the show was already a sign of a great and promising championship clash to start the new year.
Also read: Vision wreaks havoc on Raw as Braun Breaker targets CM Punk
