CM Punk took center stage on the latest episode of WWE Monday Night Raw, defending the World Heavyweight Title against Bron Breakker at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. This WWE Raw Deal review covers a night of high-stakes matches, with notable surprises and crossovers ensuring an eventful return for fans in the new year.
Big Matches and Rising Tensions in Brooklyn
The episode opened with anticipation as CM Punk prepared to defend his title, following weeks of tense buildup against challenger Bron Breakker. Alongside this much-awaited match, the card included Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky teaming up to take on the Kabuki Warriors, promising fast-paced action and unpredictability throughout the night.
Fresh off last week’s dramatic finish, The Usos entered the spotlight as newly crowned nine-time World Tag Team Champions, having triumphed over AJ Styles and Dragon Lee. The tag title match had closed the previous Raw on a high note, setting the stage for even more heated competition this week.
Entertainment Crossovers: Stranger Things Meets Raw
Adding to the night’s buzz, WWE Raw featured a unique tie-in with Netflix’s global sensation Stranger Things. The crossover, aimed at attracting wider audiences, saw elements and references from the popular series woven into the show’s segments, further elevating the sense of spectacle, even for those less familiar with the series.
Looking Ahead: Early Shows and International Stops
The coming weeks promise further changes for Monday Night Raw, with earlier start times scheduled for upcoming episodes on January 12 in Düsseldorf, Germany, and January 19 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. WWE’s decision to adjust start times aims to avoid clashing with major sporting events like the NFL Playoffs and the College Football Championship, ensuring wrestling fans won’t have to choose between their favorite events.
These international stops and adjusted schedules reflect WWE’s strategy to broaden their reach, foster global fan engagement, and make programming more accessible in different time zones. Afternoon shows may become a fan-favorite feature for audiences outside the United States.
Significance and What Comes Next for WWE Raw
With CM Punk’s headline defense and the introduction of new champions, this WWE Raw Deal episode set the tone for the year’s wrestling narratives. The inclusion of hit series crossovers and the shift to global venues highlight WWE’s commitment to evolving entertainment and fan outreach. As the WWE universe turns its attention to the next episodes from Europe, fans can expect more surprises, emotional moments, and championship pursuits to unfold on Monday Night Raw.
