The January 27, 2025, episode of WWE Raw from Atlanta, Georgia, set the stage for an exciting Royal Rumble event. Featuring appearances from top stars such as Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, and Rhea Ripley, the show packed a punch with unexpected twists and fierce confrontations. Fans were left on edge as multiple new storylines emerged, teasing potential showdowns in the upcoming pay-per-view. Below, we break down the top five storylines teased on WWE Raw.
1. Cody Rhodes vs. CM Punk
— Netflix (@netflix) January 28, 2025
On WWE Raw, Cody Rhodes came to the aid of Sami Zayn, but in a chaotic twist, he ended up on the receiving end of a Helluva kick. This sparked an intense exchange between Rhodes and CM Punk, building anticipation for a possible WrestleMania showdown. Rhodes reminded Punk that the tables had turned, with Punk now chasing him instead of the other way around. This storyline sets the tone for an explosive rivalry that could culminate at WrestleMania.
2. Gunther and Logan Paul Face-Off
lmao Gunther breaking both Rollins and Logan Paul pic.twitter.com/k8CSfQTNSS
— Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com (@SeanRossSapp) January 28, 2025
The long-teased confrontation between Gunther and Logan Paul finally took center stage on Raw. After a cold reception from fans during his return, Paul stood firm in announcing his entry into the Royal Rumble 2025. A tense interaction between Paul and Gunther hints at a possible clash, likely leading to a battle at WrestleMania. The tension between these two rising stars promises high-stakes action ahead.
3. CM Punk and Sami Zayn Feud Intensifies
“We’re not on the same level, because one of us is a #WrestleMania main eventer.”
Sami Zayn throwing shade at CM Punk, you love to see it. 🔥 #WWERaw | #RawOnNetflix pic.twitter.com/pEGbvrmszq
— PW Chronicle (@_PWChronicle) January 28, 2025
CM Punk and Sami Zayn took their rivalry to a new level as Punk’s bold claim that Zayn was “not on his level” didn’t sit well. Zayn reminded Punk of his WrestleMania main event history, marking this as an escalating feud that fans will closely follow. Punk’s cocky attitude and Zayn’s quiet determination make this storyline a compelling one as both prepare for the Royal Rumble.
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4. Bayley and Iyo Sky’s Complex Past Resurfaces
"Maybe it will be me who you see at this years WrestleMania" – Bayley to Rhea Ripley
"See you Saturday" – Iyo Sky to Bayley
👀👀👀#WWERAW pic.twitter.com/jguEInH3iK
— The Movement – Pro Wrestling (@TheMovementXx) January 28, 2025
The backstage tension between Bayley and Iyo Sky reemerged on Raw. After their dramatic history in Damage CTRL and Bayley’s victory at WrestleMania 40, the two are set for another showdown. Sky’s comment “See you Saturday” all but confirmed her entry into the Royal Rumble, making this a rivalry to watch. With Rhea Ripley also lurking in the background, Bayley’s next move remains unpredictable.
5. Bron Breakker and Penta Eye Intercontinental Title
Bron Breaker declares for the Royal Rumble!
Him & Penta then come face to face, where Penta stares down the Intercontinental Championship 👀
PENTA IS SO WINNING THE IC TITLE BEFORE MANIA!#WWERAW pic.twitter.com/dBiaMQEcUZ
— The Movement – Pro Wrestling (@TheMovementXx) January 28, 2025
Bron Breakker declared his entry into the 2025 Royal Rumble, but it was his interaction with Penta that caught the audience’s attention. Penta’s silent gaze at Breakker’s Intercontinental Championship teased a future title match. While Penta has quickly made a name for himself, Breakker remains a dominant force. The potential for a hard-hitting rivalry between these two superstars is undeniable.
As these storylines unfold, WWE fans eagerly await the Royal Rumble. Who will rise to the occasion, and which rivalries will explode?
ALSO READ: Every WWE Royal Rumble Number 1 Entrant in History
