WWE Monday Night Raw returns to Madison Square Garden in New York City tonight, November 17, 2025, and wrestling fans worldwide are bracing for one of the most historic episodes in the show’s history. The broadcast airs live at 8 PM ET on Netflix, marking a farewell milestone and multiple championship opportunities.
John Cena’s Final Raw Appearance
The most significant storyline centers on John Cena making his final appearance on Monday Night Raw as an active competitor. Fresh off defeating Dominik Mysterio last week to capture his first-ever Intercontinental Championship and achieve Grand Slam status, Cena is confirmed to wrestle his 545th and final Raw match tonight.
Raw General Manager Adam Pearce announced that Cena will kick off tonight’s broadcast at the world’s most famous arena. While his opponent has not been officially confirmed, speculation runs rampant among fans and media. Among the most popular predictions is current World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk, who referenced Cena after winning his title. Other names floated include Rey Mysterio, The Miz, or a surprise opponent related to the ongoing tournament.
After tonight, Cena will have just two appearances remaining in his Hall of Fame career, with his retirement match scheduled for WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13 in Washington, D.C..
The Last Time Is Now Tournament Continues
Two first-round matches in The Last Time Is Now Tournament will determine who advances closer to facing Cena in his retirement bout.
Gunther vs. Je’Von Evans: Former World Heavyweight Champion Gunther returns to face NXT rising star Je’Von Evans in what promises to be an intriguing clash of styles and generations.
Solo Sikoa vs. Mystery Opponent: The identity of Solo Sikoa’s opponent remains one of the night’s biggest mysteries. General Manager Adam Pearce has teased that all fan theories have been incorrect so far, adding intrigue to the reveal. Speculation includes names like Austin Theory, Joe Hendry, Nic Nemeth (formerly Dolph Ziggler), Jeff Hardy, and Randy Orton, though Pearce’s comments suggest WWE has a genuine surprise planned.
So far, Sheamus, Rusev, Jey Uso, and LA Knight have advanced to the quarterfinals.
Women’s Intercontinental Championship Match
Becky Lynch announced as the new Women’s Intercontinental Champion with a graphic showing her and the championship belt
Becky Lynch puts her Women’s Intercontinental Championship on the line against Maxxine Dupri in what could be a career-defining moment for the challenger. Dupri has defeated Lynch twice before—once by countout and once by disqualification—but has yet to secure a pinfall victory over The Man.
After last week’s backstage confrontation where Lynch slammed Dupri into a road case and warned her she had no chance, tensions are at an all-time high. This marks Dupri’s third opportunity to capture the title at Madison Square Garden.
Nikki Bella Explains Her Actions
WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella is scheduled to address the Madison Square Garden crowd following her shocking heel turn last week. Bella attacked Women’s World Champion Stephanie Vaquer with her own championship belt after initially appearing to save her from a Judgment Day assault.
Bella revealed she has been waiting to explain her actions in front of a live crowd at MSG, stating she wants to show her ruthless side and prove her worth in the business. Vaquer has since responded, vowing that she does not forgive or forget and plans to make Nikki pay for the betrayal.
Survivor Series WarGames Build
Madison Square Garden set up for WWE Raw with the wrestling ring and audience seating before the event starts
World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk, Jey Uso, Rhea Ripley, and IYO SKY are all advertised to appear as WWE continues building toward Survivor Series: WarGames on November 29 in San Diego.
The men’s match currently features CM Punk, Cody Rhodes, Jey Uso, and Jimmy Uso against The Vision’s Bron Breakker, Bronson Reed, Logan Paul, and Drew McIntyre, with one spot potentially remaining on each team.
On the women’s side, Rhea Ripley, IYO SKY, and Alexa Bliss will face Asuka, Kairi Sane, Nia Jax, and Lash Legend after Charlotte Flair withdrew from the babyface team due to unresolved issues with Ripley. Both teams still have openings, and speculation points to potential returns tonight, including AJ Lee joining Ripley’s squad.
Other Advertised Superstars
Cody Rhodes, Logan Paul, Drew McIntyre, and other major stars from both WarGames teams are expected to make appearances as storylines intensify heading into Survivor Series
