Welcome to another edition of the top RAW backstage news stories that could significantly impact the brand’s future. In today’s edition, we will look at some intriguing topics revolving around superstars like former WWE Champion Drew McIntyre, Brock Lesnar, and CM Punk.
After a grueling battle between Punk and McIntyre inside the Hell in a Cell, fans are interested in knowing what the future holds for the two bitter enemies. When Punk made an appearance on RAW last week, he stated that he doesn’t know what the future holds for him. Let’s take a look at when The Voice of The Voiceless might return and other interesting stories related to RAW:
#3. CM Punk is reportedly not expected to return for Crown Jewel
The former WWE Champion had become a staple on PLEs lately, thanks to his rivalry with McIntyre. However, there is some disappointing news for his fans, as The Best in The World will likely not be present for the company’s next major show, Crown Jewel.
WrestleVotes reported that he is expected to miss the show but will likely be factored in for Survivor Series, which will take place on November 30.
Fightful Select has also noted that Punk is not scheduled for Crown Jewel. The show will take place in Saudi Arabia, and the report stated that the reason for his absence is likely because of his ”moral standpoint.” With his rivalry against The Scottish Psychopath in the rearview, it will be interesting to see when The Best in The World returns to RAW.
#2. The Undertaker is looking forward to a potential Gunther vs. Brock Lesnar match
Brock Lesnar has not been seen since SummerSlam 2023. While there was a lot of speculation regarding his future, The Beast Incarnate was mentioned twice on RAW this week, fueling speculation among fans about the former Universal Champion’s potential return.
Meanwhile, The Undertaker recently stated on the Six Feet Under with Mark Calaway podcast that he would like to see Lesnar face reigning World Heavyweight Champion Gunther.
“It would propel Gunther to another level. To work a program with Brock. To the heights that I think Brock could bring him to would make him untouchable. Because he already has his own style. He has his own pace and everything else. A beast like Brock would push him to levels that I’m not sure there’s anybody on the roster right now that does that,” The Undertaker said.
#1. Drew McIntyre to return to RAW with a change in character?
While The Scottish Warrior was unsuccessful in defeating CM Punk inside The Devil’s Playground, he came out looking victorious in defeat as he brutalized his rival for most of the match.
Despite the loss, the former WWE Champion proved his mettle yet again and gained appreciation from fans and critics for his performance. Unlike Punk, McIntyre has not been seen on RAW since his defeat.
Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio stated that the idea was that his battle with The Second City Saint would change The Scottish Warrior mentally once he returned to television.
”It was never specifically said he was injured, but the idea seems to be that this match and losing the feud will affect and change him mentally,” Meltzer said.
This could mean that the RAW Superstar could undergo a character change following his return. While McIntyre has proven to be a top babyface in the past, his current heel persona has propelled him to superstardom. It is also possible that McIntyre becomes even more unhinged when he does return.
