Key Highlights
- Gunter’s controversial intervention during the tribute ceremony for AJ Styles.
- Bronson Reed and Jey Uso’s Elimination Chamber qualifier match with unexpected outcomes.
- Liv Morgan’s announcement regarding her WrestleMania opponent, causing a stir among WWE executives.
- CM Punk’s presence on Raw, adding intrigue to the storyline.
- Brock Lesnar’s promo promising a challenging main event at WrestleMania.
The Stirring of Old Feuds and New Stories: WWE Raw Highlights 2/23
WWE Raw, airing February 23, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia, was a whirlwind of drama, from the unexpected interruptions to the thrilling eliminations. Let’s dive into the highlights.
A Jolt of Controversy: Gunther’s Outburst
Michael Cole and Corey Graves were barely into their tribute ceremony for AJ Styles when they faced an unwelcome interruption. Gunther, the former General Manager, walked out, claiming the celebration was a “celebration for a loser.” His rant about his own career choices, including Bill Goldberg, John Cena, and Styles himself, drew boos from the crowd. The incident was more than just a spectacle; it hinted at deeper tensions within WWE’s upper echelons.
The Elimination Chamber Qualifier: A Twisting of Fates
After an initial flurry of action, Bronson Reed and Jey Uso squared off in the ring. The match was filled with unexpected twists, including a late-arriving Americano who dominated both opponents. In the end, Jey emerged as the victor with a hard-fought three-count, advancing to the Elimination Chamber event.
WrestleMania Decision: Liv Morgan’s Choice
Liv Morgan’s decision on her WrestleMania opponent was met with skepticism and concern. She entered Raw with Dominik Mysterio, looking visibly nervous, suggesting she had received some difficult news from Stephanie Vaquer the week prior. The match between Liv and Vaquer turned into a physical confrontation, ending when Liv delivered an Oblivion to Vaquer, cementing her choice in front of the cameras.
CM Punk’s Arrival: Adding Fuel to the Fire
CM Punk’s appearance with his usual flair added another layer to the storyline. His unique pronunciations and confrontations kept the audience on edge, hinting at deeper storylines involving Jade Car-gul and others. Punk’s presence was a reminder of the unpredictable nature of WWE Raw.
Brock Lesnar’s Promotional Tease: The Final Main Event?
The evening concluded with Brock Lesnar’s promo, promising a daunting challenge for anyone brave enough to face him at WrestleMania. Lesnar’s claims that no one in the locker room had the courage to accept his open challenge added an air of urgency and anticipation to the event.