Veteran criticizes RAW segment featuring CM Punk, Seth Rollins, and Drew McIntyre

Former WWE head writer Vince Russo highlighted concerns about the opening segment of RAW featuring CM Punk, Seth Rollins, and Drew McIntyre. The segment saw all three competitors announce their entry into the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble match, but their absence from the remainder of the show drew criticism.

During Sportskeeda Wrestling’s Legion of RAW, Russo addressed the booking decision:

Here you have arguably the three biggest stars on the show, after the first segment they’re gone. That’s not how you write television, bro. It doesn’t make any sense, man. These are your big stars, man. They should be on the show from beginning to the end.

Dark matches conclude RAW

After RAW went off air at San Jose’s SAP Center, Shinsuke Nakamura retained the United States Championship against LA Knight via disqualification. Additionally, Bayley secured a victory over Nia Jax in front of her hometown crowd.

The Royal Rumble field continues to grow stronger, with five former world champions now confirmed: John Cena, Roman Reigns, CM Punk, Seth Rollins, and Drew McIntyre.