Four WWE Title Changes That Could Happen In January 2026

WWE is ready to start 2026 with a bang. The first week of January is packed with major shows, big matches, and championship clashes. With RAW on January 5 and SmackDown heading to Berlin on January 9, the Road to WrestleMania 42 will officially begin.

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With so many high-stakes matches already announced, January could see some major titles changing hands. Here are four possible championship switches that may happen as the new year begins.

4. Rhea Ripley and IYO SKY could win the Women’s Tag Team Titles

Rhea Ripley and IYO SKY have been on a strong run in the women’s tag team division. They are set to challenge Asuka and Kairi Sane for the Women’s Tag Team Championship next week.

The challengers have had multiple confrontations with the champions, and the momentum clearly seems to be on their side. Asuka and Kairi Sane have enjoyed a solid title reign, but a title change now could freshen things up and keep the division exciting.

A win for Ripley and IYO would also add more star power to the tag division as WrestleMania season approaches.

3. Becky Lynch could regain the Women’s Intercontinental Championship

Becky Lynch has made it very clear that she wants her title back. She has openly called out current champion Maxxine Dupri, claiming that outside interference helped Dupri win the belt.

With Dupri possibly stepping away from TV for a short break, WWE could use this moment to put the championship back on Becky Lynch. This would make her a two-time Women’s Intercontinental Champion and give the title instant credibility.

After winning the belt, Lynch could move into fresh feuds with stars like Bayley or Sol Ruca, helping the division grow even more.

2. Bron Breakker could become World Heavyweight Champion

The January 5 episode of WWE RAW will feature Bron Breakker challenging CM Punk for the World Heavyweight Championship.

Breakker has dominated much of this rivalry so far. He has stood tall in multiple segments and shown clear improvement on the microphone. With support from The Vision, his chances look stronger than ever.

WWE has long viewed Breakker as a future main-event star. Winning his first world title in early January would be a huge statement and a perfect way to launch his run at the top.

1. Drew McIntyre could finally defeat Cody Rhodes for the WWE Championship

The biggest match of January may happen on the January 9 episode of WWE SmackDown in Berlin. Drew McIntyre will face Cody Rhodes in a brutal Three Stages of Hell Match for the WWE Championship.

McIntyre has failed to beat Rhodes twice already, and this could be his final chance. Given the stipulation and the setting, this match feels like the perfect moment for a title change.

Fans have been asking for McIntyre to hold the WWE Championship again, especially after his consistent performances and dedication. A win in Berlin would give WWE a massive moment to kick off WrestleMania season and reset the main event scene.