WWE RAW Results (Dec.23, 2025): CM Punk Confronts Gunther, Austin Theory Gets Major Push

With the holiday season in full swing, WWE Raw aired a shorter and quieter episode this week. The December 22 show was recorded in advance and streamed on Netflix, running for just 90 minutes instead of its usual longer length. Many regular stars were off, and the show reflected that lighter schedule.

Even so, Raw still managed to push a few stories forward. Some wrestlers hinted at big changes ahead, others got much-needed momentum, and a few booking choices raised questions about what WWE might be planning next.

CM Punk Confronts Gunther

Gunther soaked up the boos on WWE RAW, grinning as he antagonised the crowd and even climbed onto the announce table to bask in the heat. Inside the ring, The Ring General told fans to aim their anger at John

Cena — the man he recently forced to tap out.

That drew CM Punk, who confronted Gunther for disrespecting his close friend. The two stared down, but Gunther refused to fight, exiting while mocking Punk with Cena’s “You can’t see me” taunt.

Later, Gunther crossed paths with Rey Mysterio and was confronted backstage by AJ Styles, further fueling looming rivalries.

Je’Von Evans Looks Ready For The Main Roster 

Early in the episode, commentary dropped a clear hint about Je’Von Evans’ future. Michael Cole called him a “soon-to-be free agent,” which immediately stood out. Later backstage, Raw General Manager Adam Pearce told Evans they would talk about his future after his match.

Evans then defeated Rayo Americano, making the moment feel important rather than random. Over the past few months, he has appeared on the main roster several times and left a strong impression, especially during his match with Gunther in the Last Time Is Now Tournament.

Meanwhile, his time in NXT seems to have slowed down. He has faced most of the roster and never got a major title run. At just 21 years, Evans already looks confident and comfortable in big matches. WWE appears to see him as a long-term player, even if a title push does not come right away.

Nikki Bella Finally Shows Some Fire

Nikki Bella had one of her best moments since returning to WWE. She came out with a new look and delivered a sharp, confident promo ahead of her upcoming Women’s World Championship match against Stephanie Vaquer and Raquel Rodriguez.

The last few months have not been easy for Bella. She had gone into big matches without much momentum and had not won a match in quite some time after turning heel. This promo felt different, showing more attitude and purpose.

While it does not guarantee success in her next title match, the segment gave her character a much-needed boost. It also made the upcoming championship bout feel more exciting than it did before.

Maxxine Dupri’s Title Reign Faces A Tough Test 

Maxxine Dupri continued her steady rise with a meaningful win over Becky Lynch, showing how much she has improved in the ring. She later defended her Women’s Intercontinental Championship against Ivy Nile in a solid match that helped establish her reign.

However, WWE quickly placed her back into a storyline with Lynch. After an in-ring exchange, Dupri agreed to face her again in the future. While she held her own on the mic and even locked in an ankle hold, the booking raised concerns.

Putting her back against such a big name so soon makes it feel like her title run could be short. WWE has often moved this championship around quickly. That said, the situation could also lead to a bigger story, possibly tying into WrestleMania season with more major names involved.

WWE Takes A Chance On Theory’s New Path 

Austin Theory’s role in the Vision storyline feels like a big test. Though his match was described as an “audition,” it seems likely WWE already plans to include him in the group. He helped his team win by using a Seth Rollins stomp and even changed his look to match the group’s style.

At first, others like Bronson Reed were unsure about him. But Theory stayed calm, spoke little, and let his actions do the talking. That approach convinced Paul Heyman to give him a chance.

This moment feels important for Theory. Since the leadership change, he has struggled to find direction. Injuries, uneven booking, and a comedy-heavy heel role slowed his progress, even after big wins earlier in his career.

WWE is now trying to present him as more serious and intense, even dropping “Austin” from his name. The early response has been mixed, especially after the masked attacker’s reveal failed to surprise fans. Still, WWE seems committed to seeing if this version of Theory can finally connect.