Adam Pearce introduces new takeover, title change, Rhea Ripley turns into a bad girl? 4 bold predictions for WWE for the first RAW show of 2026

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📂 **Category**: WWE

📌 **What You’ll Learn**:

The next edition of WWE RAW will be the first show for the red brand in 2026. Already, there is a lot of buzz around the show, especially as fans are anticipating the return of Chris Jericho.

Additionally, CM Punk is scheduled to defend the World Heavyweight Championship against Braunbreaker. In this article, we’ll make four bold predictions for tonight’s edition of Monday Night RAW.


#4. It is possible that Chris Jericho will return and announce himself at the Royal Rumble

Chris Jericho is already a free agent and is no longer associated with All Elite Wrestling. Given the recent hype, there’s a strong chance that Y2J will appear in the first episode of the Red Brand in 2026.

If this happens, Jericho is expected to announce his entry into the traditional men’s Royal Rumble match. It would also make former World Heavyweight Champion Adam Pearce’s latest acquisition of the red brand.


#3. Becky Lynch may dethrone Maxine Dupree

It has already become official that Maxine Dupri will defend her Women’s Intercontinental Championship against Becky Lynch at the show. Although Dupree is certainly ready to face the man, a title change is still expected.

After that, WWE could set the stage for a singles feud between AJ Lee and Becky Lynch for the women’s mid-card title.


#2. Rhea Ripley could turn on IYO SKY after her loss to The Kabuki Warriors

The Kabuki Warriors are set to compete with Rhea Ripley and IYO SKY for the Women’s Tag Team Titles. Over the past few months, it seems like Ripley and Sky have become the best of friends on WWE television.

However, the first episode of WWE RAW in 2026 could bring a big surprise when The Eradicator turns on The Genius of the Sky after his losses to Asuka and Kairi Sane. This role would finally separate SKY and Ripley on Monday’s Raw.


#1. LA Knight could return to help CM Punk on Raw

I honestly feel like CM Punk should retain the championship, even if it means getting help from someone like LA Knight or another superstar. Braunbreaker winning the title on an episode of RAW wouldn’t feel right. His moment on the biggest stage should come at WrestleMania 42

A few weeks ago, Los Angeles Knight was attacked backstage on Raw by Bronson Reed and Logan Paul. The attack led to The Megastar discontinuing its Stamford-based promotion.

The first episode of Monday Night Show could be a story of redemption for Knight, who could return and help The Second City Saint.

The help from Knight will allow the best in the world to defeat Bron Breakker and retain the World Heavyweight Championship. Additionally, this loss will not significantly impact Big Dog’s new momentum.