Comprehensive Rankings and In-Depth Reviews of Every Match

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Royal Rumble 2026: Monday Night RAW – Home Edition
The latest episode of Monday Night RAW took place in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, showcasing the fallout from Saturday Night’s headline event, the final preparations for the Royal Rumble, and the repercussions following last week’s show in Montreal. The broadcast included several key matches featuring WWE stars such as CM Punk, AJ Styles, Rey Mysterio, Rhea Ripley, and Iyo Skye.

Sportster’s rating system evaluated every match on the January 26 RAW card to identify the night’s top bout, the weakest contest, and how all other matches measured up.

4. Rey Mysterio vs. Austin Theory

Overall Score by TheSportster: 6.5/10

After their previous encounter ended with a disqualification, Austin Theory—known as The Vision—went head-to-head again with his rival Rey Mysterio on RAW. Theory consistently displayed sharp ring skills and played the villain adeptly, even attempting to unmask Mysterio at one point. Although Theory controlled parts of the match, the crowd rallied behind Mysterio, who showcased his timeless luchador style with multiple hurricanranas.

During the match, Mysterio suffered what appeared to be an awkward knee injury after a second hurricanrana outside the ring, though it was unclear whether this was part of the storyline. Meanwhile, Penta and Dragon Lee—associates of Theory’s allies—clashed ringside, creating a distraction. Taking advantage of the chaos, Theory landed the Stomp to secure the victory. While the match was a solid showing from both performers, it didn’t quite reach special status.

3. Rhea Ripley, Iyo Skye, Stefanie Vaquél vs. Judgment Day

Overall Score by TheSportster: 6.5/10

Following Stefanie Vaquél’s comeback from injury in the Saturday Night main event, she teamed up with Rhea Ripley and Iyo Skye to face off against Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez, and Roxanne Perez on RAW. Despite the impressive lineup, the match had a slower build-up rather than an explosive start. Things heated up once Ripley received a late hot tag, unleashing a fierce series of moves including headbutts, missile dropkicks, clotheslines, and a powerful Razor’s Edge that electrified the audience.

The opposing team regained momentum with quick-paced exchanges. A daring dive by Vaquél outside the ring on Rodriguez caused the match to break down momentarily, but Sky came to Ripley’s aid, preventing a double-team finish by Perez and Morgan. Ultimately, Ripley pinned Perez with a Riptide to win. While the bout didn’t quite meet expectations, it still delivered a solid performance.

2. Alpha Academy vs. New Day vs. Los Americanos vs. Made in America (Number One Contenders)

Overall Score by TheSportster: 6.75/10

Four tag teams, each with plenty of talent but little momentum, competed for the World Tag Team Championship opportunity on RAW. Los Americanos displayed smooth in-ring skills, while Creed showcased impressive strength and agility. The New Day entertained with a fun and unique heel act, and Alpha Academy brought their usual energizing underdog style.

Although the crowd wasn’t fully engaged early on, they responded to key moments, particularly when Otis got a hot tag and ran wild. Akira Tozawa also reminded the audience of his incredible ring ability. The New Day attempted to steal the victory, but Jey Uso’s presence at ringside counteracted Grayson Waller’s interference. In the end, Alpha Academy emerged victorious after Tozawa delivered a Senton. Despite some moments of confusion, the match came together to provide an enjoyable experience.

1. CM Punk vs. AJ Styles (World Heavyweight Championship)

Overall Score by TheSportster: 7.25/10

CM Punk challenged AJ Styles for the World Heavyweight Championship in what might be Styles’ final match on RAW. The match opened with an intense brawl as the crowd chanted for both competitors. They exchanged technical maneuvers early on, including submission attempts and reversals, before escalating into a more physical showdown where they delivered many of their signature moves, demonstrating strong chemistry.

The bout included tributes such as Punk replicating AJ Lee’s Shining Wizard and using a Samoa Joe-inspired attack. While audience engagement fluctuated, fans were energized during highlights like Punk’s flying elbow, Styles’ GTS outside the ring, and his near-victory with the Styles Clash. Just as the match reached its peak, Finn Balor interrupted, attacking Punk and causing the match to end in a no contest, firmly establishing Balor’s heel status and spoiling the main event.

Fan Take:
This edition of RAW was crucial for setting the stage ahead of the Royal Rumble, featuring compelling story developments and strong performances from top WWE talent. The surprising interference in the main event hints at evolving rivalries and creates exciting possibilities for future pay-per-view events, keeping fans eagerly engaged with the sport’s ongoing narratives.