Tonight’s WWE RAW continues to set the stage for the highly anticipated WWE Royal Rumble 2026 build, with the show broadcast live from the PSD Bank Dome in Düsseldorf, Germany. As fans’ anticipation rises following recent RAW and SmackDown events, WWE is expected to deliver major surprises, including the return of top stars and a long-awaited dream match.
What to Expect: Major Appearances and Surprises in Germany
WWE RAW’s latest edition features a packed lineup, with CM Punk, Bron Breakker, AJ Styles, and Gunther all confirmed to appear. The atmosphere is tense and expectant, with rumors swirling about possible shock returns—most notably, the potential comeback of a former United States Champion. The event promises high-stakes matches, significant story developments, and possible announcements that could shape the Royal Rumble card.
Bron Breakker Poised for Redemption After Setback
Bron Breakker heads into tonight’s show following a tough defeat at the hands of CM Punk last week. The loss ended his hopes for the World Heavyweight Championship and put his RAW momentum in question. As speculation grows about his next move, fans look to see whether the former NXT Champion will officially declare his entry into the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble match and attempt to reclaim a path toward WrestleMania glory. Breakker, rumored to join Paul Heyman for a powerful promo, remains one of the crowd favorites to win the upcoming battle royal and could display a more aggressive side in Düsseldorf.
Potential Return of LA Knight to Shake Up RAW
After a recent ruthless attack by The Vision sidelined him, LA Knight has been noticeably absent from Monday Night RAW. Reports now hint the Defiant One is traveling to Germany, raising hopes for his surprise return tonight. With unresolved grudges against adversaries like Bronson Reed and Austin Theory—who are set to compete in a tag team contest alongside Dragon Lee and Penta—Knight’s comeback could tilt the match in dramatic fashion. There is also growing anticipation that, following his return, LA Knight might announce his intention to enter the 2026 Royal Rumble, intensifying rivalries and adding further unpredictability to the night’s proceedings.
CM Punk’s Path to Royal Rumble: Challenger Still Undecided
CM Punk, one of WWE’s most storied stars, is scheduled to compete at the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia later this month. While no official opponent has been confirmed, tonight’s show is expected to address this uncertainty. WWE could announce a number one contender’s match, following a format similar to SmackDown’s contender series for the Undisputed WWE Championship. As rumors circulate, names like Gunther, JeVon Evans, and AJ Styles emerge as potential participants in a high-stakes match to determine who faces Punk for the coveted World Heavyweight Championship. With Adam Pearce rumored to play a key role in these developments, the build-up for Punk’s title defense is reaching new levels of tension.
IYO SKY and Rhea Ripley Celebrate Championship Victory
Last week’s RAW saw IYO SKY and Rhea Ripley triumph over the Kabuki Warriors, ending a months-long feud and claiming the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships. Tonight’s show in Düsseldorf is expected to include celebrations of the new champions’ victory as well as set up future challengers. Lash Legend and Nia Jax have long pursued the Women’s Tag Titles and may confront SKY and Ripley, igniting a fresh rivalry just ahead of the Royal Rumble. WWE is also likely to tease a title defense for SKY and Ripley at the Premium Live Event, keeping the women’s tag division in the spotlight.
Dream Match: AJ Styles Clashes with Gunther for the First Time
Among the night’s most anticipated moments is the singles encounter between AJ Styles and Gunther—two world-class performers whose technical prowess has defined their careers. After an intense confrontation last week, the stage is set for their first-ever meeting inside a WWE ring. Fans, eager for what could be a match-of-the-year contender, expect a showcase of skill, competitive spirit, and near falls as both Styles and Gunther battle for momentum on the road to WrestleMania. The outcome of this match could have major implications for future storylines as WWE Royal Rumble 2026 build gathers pace.
Tonight’s RAW promises to escalate rivalries, deliver thrilling moments, and set new directions on the path to WWE Royal Rumble 2026. With leading names like CM Punk, LA Knight, Bron Breakker, AJ Styles, Gunther, IYO SKY, Rhea Ripley, and many more involved, the Düsseldorf event is poised for excitement and impact as WWE inches closer to one of its biggest annual spectacles.
