The January 26, 2026 episode of Monday Night RAW will be remembered for weeks to come, thanks in part to a shocking turn of events following the main event between AJ Styles and CM Punk. The World Heavyweight Title match had all the makings of a thrilling contest, but it was the aftermath that stole the show. In this article, we’ll delve into what happened when the cameras stopped rolling, and how the sudden attack by Finn Balor will impact the WWE landscape.
The Main Event: AJ Styles vs. CM Punk
The highly anticipated World Heavyweight Title bout between AJ Styles and CM Punk lived up to the hype. Both men gave it their all, with Styles ultimately emerging victorious after a well-executed Phenomenal Forearm. The win marked a significant milestone in Styles’ career, solidifying his position as one of the top contenders in the WWE.
However, the victory was short-lived, as CM Punk’s frustration turned to anger upon being defeated. The veteran wrestler, known for his intense and unpredictable behavior, made his way to the ring after the match, ready to face off with his opponent. It was at this moment that Finn Balor saw an opportunity to strike, ambushing CM Punk with a vicious Coup de Grâce.
What Happened Behind the Scenes?
According to sources close to the WWE, the chaos that erupted after the main event was not entirely unexpected. With tensions running high between CM Punk and AJ Styles, it was only a matter of time before another rival joined the fray. Balor, who has been on a mission to prove himself as one of the top stars in the WWE, saw this as the perfect opportunity to insert himself into the mix.
“I think Finn Balor’s timing couldn’t have been more perfect,” said a WWE insider. “He’s been looking for a way to get back into the title picture, and this was his chance to make a statement. The fact that CM Punk was so focused on AJ Styles after the match made him an easy target.”
As the cameras continued to roll, the scene was one of utter chaos. CM Punk, still reeling from the sudden attack, was left to fend for himself against Balor and the surrounding WWE talent. The image of Styles watching from the ring, a mix of confusion and concern etched on his face, will be etched in the memories of WWE fans for years to come.
The Aftermath: What’s Next for AJ Styles and CM Punk?
In the wake of the chaos, both AJ Styles and CM Punk have been left with more questions than answers. For Styles, the win has cemented his position as one of the top stars in the WWE, but the attack by Balor has raised questions about his character’s next move. Will he continue to focus on his own pursuits, or will he find himself drawn into the ever-growing feud between CM Punk and Finn Balor?
As for CM Punk, the veteran wrestler’s reaction to the attack by Balor has sparked a firestorm of debate among WWE fans. Was the ambush a legitimate attempt to take down a rival, or was it simply a clever ploy to gain attention? Regardless of the answer, one thing is certain: CM Punk will not go quietly into the night.
“I think CM Punk’s response to the attack will be fascinating to watch,” said a WWE insider. “He’s a man who wears his heart on his sleeve, and he’s not afraid to speak his mind. If anyone can turn this chaotic situation into a rallying cry for the WWE Universe, it’s CM Punk.”
With the WWE landscape more uncertain than ever, one thing is certain: the road ahead will be filled with twists and turns. Will AJ Styles be able to maintain his position as World Heavyweight Champion, or will Finn Balor’s attack prove to be the catalyst for a new era of wrestling dominance? Only time will tell.
In the meantime, WWE fans will be kept on the edge of their seats as they wait to see what’s next for AJ Styles, CM Punk, and Finn Balor. One thing is for sure: in the world of professional wrestling, nothing is ever as it seems, and the truth is often hidden behind the scenes.