Penta has scheduled a high-stakes match for next week on Raw, challenging Ludwig Kaiser to a No Holds Barred contest. This comes after Kaiser defeated both Penta and Pete Dunne in a recent Triple Threat match.

The legendary luchador has gained significant popularity since debuting in WWE in 2025, building a reputation that matches his pre-WWE status as one of the world’s premier wrestlers. His momentum was temporarily halted when Kaiser secured a victory over him and Dunne in their Triple Threat encounter.

After being called out by Kaiser, Penta responded directly and challenged him to a No Holds Barred match on next week’s Raw. While WWE has not officially confirmed the stipulation, promotional materials suggest the match will proceed with the added extreme rules.

This confrontation represents a significant obstacle for Penta to overcome in his WWE journey. Despite Kaiser’s recent victory, Penta enters as the fan favorite to defeat his German opponent.

The No Holds Barred stipulation adds an unpredictable element to what promises to be an intense physical encounter between these two competitors.

Sheamus made his return on the final RAW of 2024, interrupting Ludwig Kaiser during a segment where Kaiser called out Bron Breakker. The Celtic Warrior attempted to deliver a Brogue Kick, but Kaiser managed to escape the ring.

Following the show, Sheamus addressed his return and recent struggles with injuries. His statement revealed the toll of recent weeks:

After the last four weeks without sleep because of my ribs, I can’t wait to pay Kaiser back ten times more.

The former champion declared 2025 as his year, targeting the Intercontinental Championship. He then issued a direct challenge to the current champion:

Bron Breakker, I’ll see you soon. I have a match with you and won’t rest until I get what I want.

WWE secures Sheamus with new five-year deal

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter’s Dave Meltzer reports that Sheamus has committed his future to WWE:

Sheamus signed a new five-year contract.

This agreement follows a period of uncertainty after Sheamus suffered a shoulder injury in September 2023, coinciding with his previous contract’s expiration. WWE extended the deal, allowing for his proper recovery before his return to the ring in April.

CM Punk’s tribute to John Cena at Madison Square Garden has fueled speculation about a potential partnership between the two veterans in 2025.

During his match against Ludwig Kaiser, Punk incorporated Cena’s signature moves, timing the gesture with The Cenation Leader’s upcoming return to RAW on Netflix.

The two stars haven’t shared a WWE ring since their February 2013 encounter on RAW in Dallas. Their history includes the memorable “Summer of Punk” rivalry in 2011, making any potential alliance particularly significant. Industry observers suggest the duo could pursue tag team gold following WrestleMania 41, leveraging their combined star power.

CM PUNK DOES JOHN CENA’S COMEBACK😭🐐#WWEMSG pic.twitter.com/4E65wxpKEN— ItsDaniel ⚖️ (@imitsdaniel) December 27, 2024

WWE management debates Cena’s WrestleMania opponent

As discussions continue about Cena’s final WrestleMania appearance, internal debate has emerged regarding Logan Paul as a potential opponent.

WrestleVotes reports that WWE officials are hesitant to book Paul for what would be Cena’s farewell match.

The resistance stems from the historic nature of the event, with management preferring an established competitor for Cena’s final WrestleMania moment. While Paul has impressed in recent performances, the company appears focused on securing a more traditional sendoff for the 16-time World Champion.