The “Original Tribal Chief” is officially making his way back to WWE television. During the latest episode of Monday Night Raw, WWE World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk announced that Roman Reigns will return to the red brand next week when the show broadcasts live from Indianapolis, Indiana.
Tensions Rise on the Road to WrestleMania 42
The announcement came after the live crowd voiced their displeasure regarding Reigns’ absence from the current week’s show. CM Punk, never one to back down from a live microphone, quickly addressed the audience. He noted that fans shouldn’t be booing him, emphasizing his own status as a fighting champion who makes every town on every tour, drawing a stark contrast to Reigns’ notoriously limited schedule. Punk then pivoted his focus back to his upcoming Elimination Chamber opponent, Finn Balor, but the message to Reigns was clear.
Reigns was last seen on WWE programming during the Raw immediately following the Royal Rumble. During that appearance, Reigns confronted Punk directly, revealing that he had already made his WrestleMania 42 decision and declaring his hatred for the current champion. The upcoming appearance in Indianapolis will undoubtedly add fuel to their impending collision.
In addition to the highly anticipated return of Roman Reigns, next week’s episode of Raw is loaded with pivotal in-ring action. Dominik Mysterio will put his Intercontinental Championship on the line against Penta. Penta earned the championship opportunity by defeating El Grande Americano in a hard-fought number-one contender’s match last week.
Furthermore, Gunther is scheduled to face Dragon Lee in a singles grudge match. The rivalry escalated this week when The Ring General interrupted the broadcast, demanding the Atlanta crowd celebrate his greatness rather than focusing on the retiring AJ Styles. Raw General Manager Adam Pearce was forced to deploy security to escort Gunther from the building. However, before Gunther could safely exit, Dragon Lee ambushed him, sparking a chaotic backstage brawl. Lee is seeking direct retribution on behalf of his mentor, AJ Styles.
