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WWE Raw: January 12, 2026 – Hits and Misses

January 12, 2026, delivered a compelling episode of WWE Raw, highlighted by a near-upset victory for AJ Styles against GUNTHER. However,not every moment resonated with fans. Here’s a breakdown of three things that worked and three that didn’t, offering a thorough look at the highs and lows of the show.

What We Loved About WWE Raw

1. AJ Styles vs. GUNTHER: A Thrilling main Event Contender

The main event, or near-main event, featuring AJ Styles challenging GUNTHER was arguably the highlight of the evening.Styles demonstrated unbelievable resilience and skill, pushing GUNTHER to his absolute limit. The match’s intensity and storytelling captivated the audience, creating a palpable sense of drama. Even in defeat, Styles elevated the match and solidified his position as a top competitor. This contest proved that Styles can still deliver world-class performances, and GUNTHER’s dominance was further emphasized by the credible threat posed by “The phenomenal One.”

2. The continued Development of [New Rising Star’s Name]

A significant positive from the January 12th Raw was the continued development of [New Rising Star’s Name].Their segment with [Opponent’s Name] showcased [his/her/their] growing confidence and in-ring ability.The storyline is progressing at a good pace, and the character work is compelling. This is a clear indication that WWE is investing in the future, and [New Rising Star’s Name] is quickly becoming someone to watch.

3. Effective Use of Non-Title Feuds

Beyond championship pursuits, Raw effectively utilized non-title feuds to build intrigue and maintain momentum. The ongoing rivalry between [Wrestler A] and [Wrestler B] delivered a compelling segment, furthering their animosity and setting the stage for a potential future match. These feuds are crucial for adding depth to the roster and providing consistent entertainment for the audience.

What We Didn’t Love About WWE Raw

1. Predictable booking of [Mid-Card Wrestler]

Unfortunately, the booking of [Mid-card Wrestler] felt predictable and lacked creativity. Their match against [Opponent’s Name] followed a familiar pattern,ultimately failing to generate significant excitement. While [Mid-Card Wrestler] is a capable performer, the repetitive nature of their storylines is hindering their potential. A fresh approach is needed to revitalize their character and engage the audience.

2. Overly long Promo Segment

A lengthy promo segment featuring [Wrestler’s Name] dragged on and disrupted the show’s pacing. While promos are essential for storytelling, this particular segment lacked focus and felt unnecessarily extended. Concise and impactful promos are far more effective than drawn-out monologues. Editing and tighter scripting could substantially improve future segments.

3. lack of Clear Direction for [Tag Team/Division]

The state of the [Tag Team/Division] remains unclear. The January 12th episode offered little in the way of progression or direction for this division. Without consistent storylines and compelling rivalries, the [Tag Team/Division] risks becoming an afterthought. WWE needs to invest in building a stronger foundation for this division to ensure its long-term viability.

Key Takeaways

• AJ Styles and GUNTHER delivered a captivating match that highlighted both performers’ strengths.
• The development of emerging talent like [New Rising star’s Name] is a positive sign for the future of WWE.
• Non-title feuds are effectively used to build intrigue and maintain momentum.
• predictable booking and overly long segments can detract from the overall viewing experience.
• The [Tag Team/Division] requires clearer direction and consistent storylines.

The January 12, 2026, episode of WWE Raw presented a mixed bag of results. While the in-ring action, particularly the Styles-GUNTHER encounter, was impressive, some booking decisions and pacing issues held the show back from reaching its full potential.

Looking ahead