On February 16, 2026, WWE RAW took place at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee, setting the scene for critical matches leading into the WWE Elimination Chamber event. With high stakes involved, several qualifying matches were held to determine who will join the men’s and women’s Elimination Chamber bouts, essential for WrestleMania 42 ambitions.
Key Matches Define Path to Elimination Chamber
The night featured two pivotal triple threat qualifying matches. For the men’s side, Intercontinental Champion Dominik Mysterio faced off against GUNTHER and Je’Von Evans. The winner would advance to join formidable competitors like Randy Orton, LA Knight, and Cody Rhodes inside the Chamber on February 28, where the ultimate prize is a shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42.
In the women’s qualifier, Bayley, Asuka, and Natalya vied for a spot alongside Tiffany Stratton, Rhea Ripley, and Alexa Bliss. The winner of this match will secure a place in the Women’s Elimination Chamber match, where the champion earns a title opportunity on WWE’s biggest stage.
Major WWE Superstars Make Impactful Appearances
The event also saw notable appearances from major WWE stars. AJ Lee returned to the ring following weeks of escalating tension, setting the tone ahead of her upcoming challenge for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship against Becky Lynch.
World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk spoke directly to the WWE Universe, addressing his upcoming title defense against Finn Bálor inside the Chamber. With Roman Reigns waiting for the champion at WrestleMania, CM Punk’s journey is filled with uncertainty and pressure.
Liv Morgan, the 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble winner, also made an appearance, continuing to weigh her options ahead of WrestleMania. Morgan’s recent encounters with Women’s World Champion Stephanie Vaquer and WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill have left fans guessing which title she will ultimately pursue in April.
Building Momentum Toward WrestleMania 42
The outcomes at WWE RAW on February 16 are crucial steps on the road to WrestleMania 42, shaping not only who competes inside the Elimination Chamber but also who may rise to championship glory. With rising tensions and championship corridors narrowing, the matches are setting the narrative for dramatic clashes at the end of February and beyond.
Fans can expect intense competition as the Chamber matches tip the balance of title aspirations, with CM Punk, Roman Reigns, and others poised to define the season. The choices Liv Morgan makes will add further intrigue to the women’s championship picture heading into the biggest event of the year.
