The stage is set for a thrilling episode of WWE Raw, as the show is set to air from the iconic Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on January 5, 2026. The sold-out crowd is in for a treat, with a stacked card featuring three championship matches and a special promotional collaboration with the hit Netflix series Stranger Things.
WWE’s Return to the Barclays Center
The Barclays Center has played host to some incredible WWE events in the past, including two consecutive WWE WrestleMania shows in 2013 and 2014. The venue’s electric atmosphere has been missing on Raw since the pandemic, but the WWE is looking to recapture that magic with this special episode. With the show’s one-year anniversary on Netflix coinciding with the event, fans can expect a night to remember.
The Scheduled Card
Three championship matches are set to take place on the night, with the World Heavyweight Championship being the main event. CM Punk will put his title on the line against an unknown opponent, sparking speculation about the identity of his challenger. Sources close to CM Punk reveal that he’s been vocal about his desire to face a new opponent, someone who can push him to his limits and bring out the best in him.
According to a WWE insider, CM Punk has been working tirelessly in the gym, fine-tuning his skills and preparing for the challenge ahead. “CM Punk is hungrier than ever for a title defense,” the insider said. “He feels like he’s in the prime of his career, and he’s determined to make the most of it. Whoever steps up to face him is in for the fight of their life.”
Another highly anticipated match on the card is the Intercontinental Championship contest between Seth Rollins and AJ Styles. Rollins has been on a tear lately, notching up several high-profile victories, while Styles is looking to regain his footing after a recent stumble. With both men boasting incredible technical skill, fans can expect a thrilling match that will leave them on the edge of their seats.
The Women’s Championship is also set to be defended, with Becky Lynch putting her title on the line against the challenger. Sources close to Lynch reveal that she’s been feeling the pressure of being a top champion, but she’s determined to prove herself once again.
Stranger Things Partnership
As part of a special promotional partnership with the Netflix series Stranger Things, WWE has announced a special crossover event that will take place during the show. The event will see several WWE Superstars teaming up with the show’s cast to take on a group of villains. Details are scarce, but sources close to the production reveal that it’s going to be an unforgettable experience.
According to a WWE spokesperson, the partnership is a natural fit. “Stranger Things and WWE share a common thread – a love of excitement, adventure, and good old-fashioned entertainment,” the spokesperson said. “We’re thrilled to be working with the show’s cast and crew to bring this one-of-a-kind experience to our fans.”
The Road to January 5th
As the countdown begins to the January 5th episode of Raw, fans are eagerly anticipating what’s in store. With a stacked card featuring three championship matches and a special Stranger Things crossover event, it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable night. Will CM Punk emerge victorious in the World Heavyweight Championship match? Can Seth Rollins and AJ Styles put on a show for the ages in the Intercontinental Championship contest? And what can fans expect from the Stranger Things partnership?
Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – the Barclays Center is going to be electric on January 5th.