Now that we’ve all had a chance to get accustomed to the idea that it’s 2024 in earnest, it’s time to turn our attention to the next big milepost on the WWE calendar: the Royal Rumble, which is coming up fast. And before that, we’ve got tonight’s episode of WWE Raw from Portland.
What’s next for CM Punk?
To say that CM Punk has settled in nicely since his shocking return to WWE late last year would be a bit of an understatement. He’s looked extremely happy with the reunion, helped draw a big crowd to MSG for a house show over the holidays and likely is moving merch at an insane pace.
He’s also stirred up hope for a feud with Seth Rollins, which seems likely to happen for WrestleMania. What happens until then? We know he’s going to be in the men’s Royal Rumble match, but as for beyond that, we’ll probably get an inkling tonight.
Cody Rhodes vs. Shinuske Nakamura, round 2
Another superstar who is undoubtedly looking forward to Royal Rumble and WrestleMania is Cody Rhodes, but unlike Punk, he’s embroiled in something that just won’t let him go in the meantime. Or more precisely, someone: Shinsuke Nakamura, who has the American Nightmare in his sights and won’t let him go.
This is wrestling, though, and maybe Rhodes can simply beat his problem into the mat. He’ll get a chance when the two men have their rematch on Raw. Watch out for the mist is all we’ll say.
Former tag team champs challenge current titleholders
The party probably hasn’t stopped for Kayden Carter and Katana Chance since they won the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship, especially since that’s part of their gimmick. Now it’s time to get back to work, however, and against the team they won those titles from, Chelsea Green and Piper Niven.
A thought, however: Green and Niven are doing such great character work that they really don’t need the titles now. Carter and Chance would benefit more from keeping them, in our opinion, but we’ll see what happens in Portland.
Also advertised for Raw tonight:
- Finn Balor vs. Tommaso Ciampa, with #DIY earning a tag team title shot if Ciampa wins
We’re set for Raw tonight even if we’ll admittedly be keeping one eye on a certain college football game at the same time. Join us back here at Wrestling Junkie at 8 p.m. ET tonight for live results and more.