The February 23, 2026 episode of WWE Monday Night RAW delivered one of the most emotional and hype-filled shows of the year so far, blending nostalgia, star power and WrestleMania 42 anticipation. From the surprise return of “The Phenomenal” AJ Styles to shocking challenge moments from Brock Lesnar, this week’s RAW was all about shaping the road to WWE’s biggest event of the year.
🔥 AJ Styles Returns in Emotional Segment
One of the biggest moments of the night was the return of AJ Styles during RAW in Atlanta. Though he retired after his WrestleMania opponent at Royal Rumble 2026, Styles was welcomed back in a tribute segment celebrating his legendary career. WWE Legends and Superstars honored Styles, creating a heartfelt atmosphere with roaring chants from the crowd.
In a career-defining announcement, The Undertaker revealed that AJ Styles will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026, marking a crowning achievement in his storied journey.
💪 Brock Lesnar Issues Open Challenge
Adding to the WrestleMania buzz, Brock Lesnar made a surprise return and issued an open challenge for the upcoming WrestleMania 42. This appearance injected fresh intensity into the RAW storyline, leaving fans eager to see how Lesnar’s path to WrestleMania will unfold.
Lesnar’s challenge sets the stage for potential blockbuster matches — a staple of WrestleMania build-ups — and ramps up speculation about who will answer his call on April’s grandest stage.
🏆 Elimination Chamber Qualifiers Fuel Momentum
RAW also featured final qualifying matches for the men’s and women’s Elimination Chamber Premium Live Event, adding competitive stakes to the show. Contenders battled for their chance to earn a spot in one of WWE’s most brutal match formats, further accelerating the road to WrestleMania.
These qualifiers not only set up compelling matchups but also spotlight emerging stars ready to make big impacts in the weeks to come.
🔥 Liv Morgan Makes WrestleMania Decision
Another headline-grabbing moment was when Liv Morgan chose her WrestleMania 42 opponent, officially setting up a major women’s title match for April. This high-stakes decision brings clarity to one of RAW’s big storylines and gives fans a marquee encounter to anticipate.
🎯 What This Means for WrestleMania 42
With WrestleMania 42 scheduled for April 18–19, every segment from RAW feels like a build-block toward that weekend spectacle. Here’s what fans can take away from Feb 23’s show:
AJ Styles’ return and Hall of Fame induction make for one of the year’s most memorable emotional moments.
Lesnar’s open challenge sets up future high-profile confrontations.
Elimination Chamber qualifiers gel the competitive landscape ahead of spring’s premium events.
Liv Morgan’s WrestleMania decision lays groundwork for main event-level storytelling.
All these elements combine to create a momentum increase on WWE RAW, keeping fans hooked as WrestleMania draws near.
💡 Final Thoughts
This week’s RAW wasn’t just another episode; it was a strategic and emotional turning point on the path to WrestleMania. With legends, rising stars, and blockbuster announcements, WWE impressively balanced nostalgia and forward momentum. Whether you’re tuning in for Styles’ heartfelt tribute or the explosive build toward April’s grandest stage, this Monday night delivered a show worthy of WWE’s busiest season.
Would you like a compact WrestleMania 42 match card prediction based on RAW build-ups? I can prepare that next!
