This week’s Dominik Mysterio injury update reveals that the Intercontinental Champion has been sidelined indefinitely after sustaining an injury at an AAA Lucha Libre event, forcing him to withdraw from WWE action on RAW. With Dominik Mysterio out, WWE is confronted with the challenge of filling the gap left by one of the red brand’s most prominent heels and its mid-card titleholder.
The Impact of Dominik Mysterio’s Absence on RAW
Dominik’s dual role on RAW, both as an integral member of The Judgment Day stable and the reigning Intercontinental Champion, has made him a crucial figure in WWE storylines this year. His current absence leaves a notable void in the roster’s villain ranks, and WWE officials are now pressured to make a decisive move to avoid storyline stagnation. When champions are sidelined for extended periods, WWE’s typical course of action is to have them relinquish the title—an approach recently seen with Sol Ruca, though inconsistencies hurt the angle’s momentum.
With Dominik’s return timeline uncertain, speculation has emerged about who could step up in his place. Four standout competitors are emerging as leading options to take over the spotlight on RAW.
Otis Has Been Underutilized But Remains a Fan Favorite
Otis is recognized for his charismatic in-ring persona and lighthearted energy, endearing him to the WWE universe. While not traditionally positioned as a major singles champion, his accolades include previous tag team championship reigns and a Money in the Bank win. Given the right creative backing, Otis could easily be a credible contender for the Intercontinental Title, capitalizing on his established popularity.
Even without a title victory, increasing Otis’s screen time—either solo or paired with Akira Tozawa—would refresh the red brand’s weekly broadcasts. His presence could offer much-needed levity and excitement as RAW adjusts to life without Dominik Mysterio.
Trick Williams Ready to Transition His Star Power to RAW
Trick Williams has risen as one of NXT’s top competitors in recent years, capturing championship gold and stirring up controversy with his frequent title shots, though not always viewed as deserving. After recent appearances across both RAW and SmackDown, Williams’s main roster promotion is imminent. The sudden absence of Dominik Mysterio, a leading villain, positions Williams as a natural replacement for that antagonistic role on Monday nights, thanks to his trademark arrogance and self-assured attitude.
Potential Rusev Comeback to Reignite Feuds
Rusev, previously involved in title contention with Dominik Mysterio, has been notably absent from WWE programming. His time away may be intentional, whether due to holiday plans or evolving storylines, but the injury to Dominik changes the roster dynamics. Known as the Bulgarian Brute, Rusev can seamlessly slide into current storylines, joining forces with Gunther or targeting other notable stars like AJ Styles, Dragon Lee, or the Usos. Aligning with Gunther, often referred to as The Ring General, could also set up a run for the tag team championships.
Je’Von Evans Positioned for a Main Roster Breakout
Je’Von Evans has had more screen time in recent weeks than even the likes of Roman Reigns, appearing across RAW, SmackDown, and NXT within the same week. His backstage interactions with stars such as AJ Styles and Dragon Lee before their title match against The Usos underline his growing prominence. Evans was also spotted confronting El Grande Americano, a sign that WWE officials hold him in high regard and expect big things.
Rather than dispersing his efforts across all brands, focusing Evans’ talents on RAW could inject new life into the red brand’s roster and serve as a logical next step with Dominik Mysterio unavailable. As momentum builds around this “Young OG,” the WWE universe awaits official word on his anticipated elevation.
The temporary loss of Dominik Mysterio as Intercontinental Champion poses immediate challenges for both the creative team and the RAW roster. Each of these four potential successors offers distinct storylines and character dynamics, promising to reshape WWE’s mid-card scene in the coming months.
