WWE Monday Night RAW Delivers Spectacular Episode with WrestleMania Momentum
The February 23 edition of Monday Night RAW proved to be an unforgettable spectacle, solidifying its status as one of the most essential episodes of 2026. This action-packed night masterfully blended emotional tributes with high-stakes wrestling drama, all while accelerating the thrilling road to WrestleMania 42. The episode served as the final major stop before the upcoming Elimination Chamber Premium Live Event, delivering captivating announcements and major superstar appearances that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Liv Morgan Makes Her WrestleMania Championship Decision
In a pivotal moment that shaped the women's division landscape, 2026 Women's Royal Rumble winner Liv Morgan confronted both reigning champions in the ring. She strategically toyed with WWE Women's World Champion Stephanie Vaquer and fellow titleholder Jade Cargill before making her intentions crystal clear. Morgan delivered a microphone strike to Vaquer, decisively announcing her choice to challenge La Primera in a one-on-one showdown for the WWE Women's World Championship at WrestleMania 42. This confrontation sets the stage for what promises to be an epic championship clash on wrestling's grandest stage.
Elimination Chamber Qualifiers Reach Their Climax
This week's RAW featured the final two qualification matches for both the Men's and Women's Elimination Chamber bouts. In the women's division, an explosive triple threat match saw powerhouse Raquel Rodriguez overcome the formidable duo of IYO Sky and Kairi Sane to secure her coveted spot in the dangerous structure. Meanwhile, on the men's side, Main Event Jey Uso showcased his resilience by outlasting the monstrous Bronson Reed and the imposing Original El Grande Americano to claim the final position in the Men's Elimination Chamber match. These victories complete the field for what promises to be brutal contests at the upcoming premium live event.
Brock Lesnar Returns with a WrestleMania Challenge
In a shocking return that electrified the arena, Brock Lesnar made his first appearance since the 2026 Royal Rumble Premium Live Event. Accompanied by his advocate Paul Heyman, The Beast Incarnate listened as Heyman passionately argued that Lesnar deserved a main event spotlight at WrestleMania 42. Lesnar then issued a bold open challenge to the entire WWE roster, daring anyone brave enough to step up and face him in a one-on-one confrontation at The Show of Shows. This declaration immediately sent shockwaves through the locker room and created intense speculation about who might accept this dangerous invitation.
Major Injury Mars Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match
The evening took a serious turn during the Men's Elimination Chamber qualifying match when a devastating injury occurred. As Bronson Reed attempted to break up a pinfall situation, he appeared to sustain a significant injury during the maneuver. Later in the broadcast, veteran commentator Michael Cole revealed the grim diagnosis: Reed had suffered a complete bicep tear that would sideline him indefinitely. This unfortunate development represents a major setback for the rising superstar and alters the landscape of the men's division as WrestleMania season intensifies.
Emotional Tribute to AJ Styles Culminates in Hall of Fame Announcement
The heart of the evening belonged to The Phenomenal One, AJ Styles, who made his first WWE appearance since losing his retirement match to Gunther at the Royal Rumble. In a moving segment dedicated to his legendary career, Styles expressed heartfelt gratitude to the WWE Universe for their unwavering support throughout his journey. He revealed his intention to focus on family life moving forward, symbolically leaving his gloves and jacket in the ring as a poignant farewell gesture. The entire locker room then emerged to give Styles a thunderous standing ovation, creating an unforgettable moment of respect and admiration.
In a stunning conclusion to this tribute, The Undertaker made a surprise appearance to confront Styles with monumental news. The Deadman officially announced that AJ Styles would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame this year, cementing his legacy as one of the all-time greats in professional wrestling history. This emotional revelation provided a fitting capstone to an extraordinary career that has inspired countless performers and fans worldwide.
