Memphis, TN – , saw a surprising influx of talent backstage at WWE Raw, signaling potential shifts in the landscape of the promotion. Both JD McDonagh and Royce Keys were reportedly present at the FedExForum, fueling speculation about their immediate futures within the company.
McDonagh’s appearance marks a potential return to active competition after a period of absence. The Judgment Day member stepped away from in-ring action in to undergo surgery for lingering injuries. Prior to his hiatus, McDonagh addressed fans via social media, stating, “Been working thru some stuff for the last few months, but now is the time to pump the brakes and get put back together. Won’t be long. Brb.” His presence in Memphis suggests he is nearing full recovery and a possible re-integration into storylines.
The arrival of Royce Keys, formerly known as Powerhouse Hobbs in AEW, is equally intriguing. Keys made a notable debut at the Royal Rumble in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, eliminating former World Champion Damian Priest. He has since competed in a dark match against Nathan Frazer prior to SmackDown last Friday, further demonstrating his commitment to establishing himself within WWE. Keys has embraced a new ring name, a tribute to both his youngest son, Royce, and his late mother’s maiden name, Keys.
Tonight’s Raw broadcast features a card centered around qualifying matches for the upcoming Elimination Chamber event. A Triple Threat match will determine one male entrant, pitting Je’Von Evans against Gunther and Dominik Mysterio. On the women’s side, Bayley, Asuka, and Nattie will compete for a spot in the Women’s Elimination Chamber match. These qualifying matches highlight WWE’s strategy of building anticipation for the Elimination Chamber, a premium live event known for its brutal and unpredictable nature.
Beyond the Elimination Chamber qualifiers, the show will also feature significant appearances from several top stars. World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk is scheduled to address the WWE Universe, outlining his plans for upcoming title defenses against Finn Bálor and Roman Reigns. This segment is crucial, as Punk’s championship reign has been a focal point of WWE programming, and his upcoming matches represent high-stakes confrontations with two of the company’s most prominent figures.
Liv Morgan, the Women’s Royal Rumble winner, will also appear, speaking to the audience as she begins her pursuit of a championship opportunity. Morgan’s victory in the Royal Rumble has positioned her as a leading contender in the women’s division, and her upcoming appearances are expected to build momentum towards a potential title match at WrestleMania 42.
Adding another layer of intrigue, AJ Lee is set to appear live on the program after securing a future match for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship. Lee’s return to WWE has been met with considerable fanfare, and her presence adds a significant boost to the women’s division. The details surrounding her future match are currently unknown, but her appearance tonight is expected to provide further clarity.
The presence of both McDonagh and Keys backstage adds an element of unpredictability to tonight’s Raw. While neither is currently scheduled to appear on camera, their presence suggests that WWE may be laying the groundwork for future storylines. McDonagh’s return from injury could revitalize The Judgment Day, while Keys’ continued integration into the roster could establish him as a formidable force in the men’s division.
The timing of these developments is particularly noteworthy, as WWE approaches both Elimination Chamber and WrestleMania 42. These events represent critical opportunities for WWE to build momentum and solidify its storylines. The potential return of McDonagh and the continued development of Keys could play a significant role in shaping the landscape of these events.
WWE’s strategy of keeping surprises under wraps is evident in the reports surrounding McDonagh, and Keys. Being backstage is often the first step towards a return or a new storyline, and the company’s reluctance to confirm their appearances on camera suggests that they are aiming to maximize the impact of their eventual reveal. This approach is consistent with WWE’s history of building anticipation and creating memorable moments for its fans.
Tonight’s Raw promises to be a compelling episode, featuring a combination of competitive matches, significant appearances from top stars, and the potential for unexpected developments. The presence of McDonagh and Keys backstage adds an extra layer of intrigue, leaving fans to speculate about their roles in the weeks and months to come. As WWE continues to build towards Elimination Chamber and WrestleMania 42, the company is clearly focused on creating a compelling and unpredictable product for its audience.
