The upcoming WWE RAW episode marks the final stop before SummerSlam 2025, which expands into a two-night spectacle this year, intensifying excitement among wrestling fans. The red brand‘s card already showcases top-tier matches, including Roman Reigns’ tag team bout and the World Heavyweight Title clash between CM Punk and Gunther.
As the go-home show, RAW is expected to deliver unexpected developments and shake-ups, setting the stage for key confrontations at SummerSlam. Among these looming changes, Sami Zayn’s status for the event remains uncertain, sparking widespread speculation.
Women’s Intercontinental Championship Drama Unfolds
Becky Lynch will defend her Women’s Intercontinental Championship against Lyra Valkyria in a two-out-of-three falls match at SummerSlam. Valkyria earned her title shot by defeating Bayley on RAW in recent weeks.
Given Valkyria’s recent losses and her former leadership role in Damage CTRL, there’s significant buzz about her potential heel turn. WWE might accelerate this storyline on RAW by having Bayley attack Valkyria, possibly injuring her and forcing a last-minute SummerSlam substitution.
If that happens, Bayley may replace Valkyria and challenge Becky Lynch for the title, adding new tensions to the women’s division heading into the biggest show of the summer.
Alberto Del Rio’s WWE Return Still Uncertain
Alberto Del Rio’s name has circulated heavily among WWE fans, fueling hopes for a comeback after his departure from AAA due to a loser-leaves match loss. WWE might reintroduce Del Rio under Triple H’s leadership, potentially inserting him into the existing storyline involving Sheamus and Rusev, who are tied to The League of Nations faction alongside Del Rio.
However, insiders suggest WWE currently has no plans to bring Del Rio back, casting doubt on the likelihood of his return for the SummerSlam build-up.
Grayson Waller’s Possible Alliance with The New Day
At last week’s RAW, The New Day had a backstage segment with Grayson Waller, who revealed that his association with Austin Theory ended due to Theory’s injury. This development has sparked rumors that Waller may officially join The New Day.
It is anticipated that in the upcoming RAW episode, Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods could extend an invitation to Waller to become the newest member of the group, potentially adding fresh dynamics to The New Day’s lineup.
Sami Zayn’s SummerSlam Status Remains in Question
WWE has confirmed a match between Sami Zayn and Karrion Kross for SummerSlam. Last week, Kross capitalized on Zayn’s rib injury to secure a victory, indicating Sami is far from fully recovered. This injury raises doubts about Zayn’s ability to compete on August 2, 2025.
It is plausible that Zayn might withdraw from the match due to his health concerns. If so, LA Knight may be named as Zayn’s replacement, ensuring LA Knight remains on the SummerSlam card while Sami avoids risking further injury.
Potential Bans Proposed by RAW General Manager Adam Pearce
Paul Heyman’s allied wrestlers Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed will face Roman Reigns and Jey Uso in a tag team contest at SummerSlam. Oracle, aligned with Breakker and Reed, is anticipated to interfere in this match to provide them an unfair advantage.
To prevent such interference, RAW General Manager Adam Pearce may impose bans on Oracle’s presence during the event. These restrictions could cover the entire duration of SummerSlam or at least prevent Oracle from appearing ringside during the tag team match, aiming to preserve competitive fairness.
The Road Ahead for SummerSlam and WWE Storylines
This week’s RAW promises to be pivotal, with several unsettling possibilities surrounding Sami Zayn and other notable figures. The uncertainty about Zayn’s participation at SummerSlam 2025, combined with potential shifts in alliances and unexpected bans, sets a tense atmosphere as the event approaches.
With heightened stakes and dramatic twists looming, fans will watch closely to see how Adam Pearce and WWE navigate these challenges, balancing storyline development with real-life injuries and character arcs in the lead-up to SummerSlam’s expanded two-night celebration.
