WWE Raw features new WWE champion Sami Zayn’s first world title defense in one of the more intriguing matches of 2026 as Zayn defends against Cody Rhodes. Zayn’s feel-good win in Saudi Arabia triggered garden-variety panic from the fear-based Internet Wrestling Community, who refuses to enjoy any moment. Instead, many hardcore wrestling fans are assuming Zayn’s first world title run will be a short one—similar to Darby Allin’s short run that proved to be a ratings dud in AEW.
Sami Zayn World Title Defense Causes Panic About A Short Title Run
Given the circumstances, fans have reason to be nervous about Sami Zayn’s first—and possibly only—title defense. A similar situation played out ahead of WrestleMania 42 when Drew McIntyre dethroned Rhodes on Raw from Berlin, Germany in January. McIntyre’s run lasted just two months as Cody regained the world title shortly before WrestleMania.
The WWE Undisputed Championship is a SmackDown title, yet it is being defended on Raw, which is also raising red flags for some. WWE explained this in storyline as SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis’ suspension has opened the door for Raw GM Adam Pearce to book the best show possible with a WWE Championship match on Raw. WWE is going to need all the help it can get with one of the most important World Cup games in history airing head-to-head as the United States takes on Belgium for a spot in the elusive Round of 16.
A possible Sami Zayn loss would certainly inflame a vocal minority within WWE’s fickle fanbase, especially if Cody once again dethrones an internet wrestling darling to force a short reign. This would surely cause resentment from fans who will consider Sami’s special moment just that—a moment. And one WWE coldly moved on from.
CM Punk Return Rumors
WWE Raw from Chicago has sparked obligatory CM Punk return rumors. Punk, who has already been announced for Fanatics Fan Fest in New York, has not appeared on WWE programming since the Raw After WrestleMania, where he teased a world title feud against Cody Rhodes. Punk is rumored to have bulked up with pictures of a more muscular Phil Brooks going viral online.
WWE Raw Ratings And Viewership
- June 22, 2026 | 2.3 million global views
- June 15, 2026 | 2.4 million global views
- June 8, 2026 | 2.4 million global views
- June 1, 2026 | 2.0 million global views
- May 25, 2026 | 2.5 million global views
WWE Raw Ticket Sales | Where Is WWE Raw?
- WWE Raw Venue: Allstate Arena (Rosemont, Ill.)
- WWE Raw Ticket Sales: 11,245
- WWE Raw Tickets Available: 1,193
WWE Raw Results, Winners And Highlights On July 6, 2026
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