• Why Je’Von Evans’ Big RAW Moment Was Cut To Commercial
A curious moment occurred during the January 5th episode of RAW that left both fans and industry insiders scratching their heads. The highly anticipated official signing of Je’Von Evans to the red brand, a milestone for the 21-year-old standout, unexpectedly took place during a commercial break. While the live audience in attendance saw Evans join General Manager Adam Pearce to ink the deal, the segment did not air for the United States Netflix audience.
Reports from WrestleVotes Radio via Fightful Select indicate that the decision caused significant “backstage confusion.” Many within the company were reportedly puzzled by the choice to relegate such a major call-up moment to an off-air slot. Despite the bizarre formatting, sources have been quick to clarify that the move is not a reflection of WWE’s opinion of Evans. In fact, management reportedly remains “high” on the young star’s potential.
Following the show, Sean Ross Sapp sought answers regarding why the segment was cut from the live broadcast. The leading theory throughout the week is that the show was “running heavy,” meaning earlier segments exceeded their allotted time and forced producers to move Evans’ signing to the commercial break to stay on schedule.
• Multiple WWE Officials Are Pushing For A New Undisputed Champion Tonight On SmackDown
Today’s SmackDown in Berlin, Germany will have a special start time for fans outside the U.S. on Netflix at 2 PM ET, and it will air at 8 PM ET on the USA Network in the United States. In the main event, Cody Rhodes will defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Drew McIntyre in a 3 Stages of Hell match. Below are the stipulations for this match:
1. Straight Wrestling Match
2. Falls Count Anywhere Match
3. Old School Steel Cage Match
Many fans expect Cody to defeat Drew to retain the WWE Title in this match because Andrew Baydala reported that Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton for the WWE Championship is the current plan for Royal Rumble 2026 in Saudi Arabia on January 31st. The Viper returned on last week’s SmackDown and told The American Nightmare that he’s coming for the title.
However, there’s a chance the unexpected happens – Drew McIntyre wins the WWE Championship.
According to Bodyslam+, multiple WWE officials are pushing for McIntyre to dethrone Rhodes tonight.
Self Made Pro reported the same recently:
“I was told to expect a title change this week. I was told that one of the world titles is changing this week.
Yes, the 3 Stages of Hell match on SmackDown. There are significant voices in creative actively pushing for Drew McIntyre to beat Cody Rhodes.
That was as of last week. By this point, the decision has been made as to where they’re going, but I know that as of last week, there were significant voices pushing hard for Drew McIntyre to go over.
Ultimately, it’s [Triple H’s] call.”
• Gunther Makes Top Babyface Tap Out At WWE Live Event In Germany
The 2026 European tour for WWE kicked off with a high-energy house show in Leipzig, Germany, on January 8th. Held at the QUARTERBACK Immobilien ARENA, the event served as the first stop on the “Road to Royal Rumble,” featuring several major title defenses and high-profile grudge matches.
The main event saw a brutal Street Fight for the Undisputed WWE Championship, where Cody Rhodes successfully defended his title against Drew McIntyre. The match, which lasted 25 minutes, was a physical preview for their upcoming “3 Stages of Hell” match scheduled for Friday Night SmackDown in Berlin.
In a highly competitive match, Gunther showcased his dominance by forcing Sami Zayn to submit after 12 minutes of hard-hitting action. The tag team division also saw major action as AJ Styles and Dragon Lee opened the night with a victory over Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods of The New Day.
The supernatural Wyatt Sicks, represented by Uncle Howdy, Erick Rowan, Dexter Lumis, and Joe Gacy, secured an 18-minute victory over the My Family Tree faction in a chaotic encounter. Meanwhile, the women’s division featured a tag team clash where Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair defeated The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane).
Rounding out the card, Liv Morgan, accompanied by Raquel Rodriguez, defeated Lyra Valkyria. Jey Uso also picked up a significant win by pinning the powerhouse Bronson Reed in an eight-minute battle.
Following the success in Leipzig, the tour continues across Europe with stops in Glasgow, Copenhagen, and multiple dates in the UK leading up to the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia.
