The January 13, 2025 edition of WWE Raw, live from the SAP Center in San Jose, California, delivered an action-packed night of intense rivalries, shocking returns, and new champions. Here are the key moments from the show:
Lyra Valkyria Becomes the First Women's Intercontinental Champion:
The first-ever Women's Intercontinental Champion was crowned in a thrilling final between Lyra Valkyria and Dakota Kai. Valkyria, who had fought through the tournament by defeating Ivy Nile and IYO SKY, faced off against the resilient Dakota Kai. Despite taking a heavy Go To Kick from Kai, Valkyria bounced back to hit her Night Wing finishing move, securing the victory and making history.
Penta Makes Stunning Debut:
Chad Gable faced a mystery opponent, and it was none other than former AEW star Penta, making his WWE debut. In a fast-paced, hard-hitting match, Penta emerged victorious, defeating Gable with a Penta Driver after a series of impressive high-flying moves and submissions. After the match, Penta addressed the WWE Universe, declaring that a new era of Penta has arrived.
Sheamus Defeats Ludwig Kaiser:
In a continuation of their long-standing feud, Sheamus squared off against Ludwig Kaiser. The two battled fiercely, with Sheamus ultimately landing a Brogue Kick out of nowhere for the win. The Celtic Warrior's victory came after a hard-fought match, and it set the stage for a future confrontation with Intercontinental Champion Bron Breakker, who was watching from ringside.
GUNTHER and Jey Uso Set for a World Title Clash:
World Heavyweight Champion GUNTHER dismissed Jey Uso as a serious contender, claiming that he belongs in the tag team division. However, Jey Uso declared his intentions to challenge GUNTHER for the title at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event on January 25, 2025, setting up an exciting showdown for the coveted championship.
Damian Priest Defeats Finn Balor in a Wild Street Fight:
In the night’s main event, Damian Priest took on Finn Balor in a brutal Street Fight. The two fought through the crowd, using kendo sticks, chairs, and even tables to try and gain the upper hand. Despite interference from JD McDonagh and Carlito, Priest fought off the odds, hitting a Broken Arrow through the crowd and securing the win with his South of Heaven finisher.
Rhea Ripley and Nia Jax Clash:
Women's World Champion Rhea Ripley celebrated her title reign, but Nia Jax interrupted, declaring her entry into the 2025 Women's Royal Rumble. This led to a tense confrontation with Bayley, who had been in the audience. The two brawled, with Ripley and Bayley ultimately standing tall as Jax retreated.
Sami Zayn Triumphs Over The Miz:
Sami Zayn scored a dominant win over The Miz, hitting his Helluva Kick/Blue Thunder Bomb combination for the victory. The Miz, still reeling from recent backstage confrontations, couldn’t overcome Zayn's explosive offense.
WWE Raw’s January 13 show set the stage for exciting matches ahead, including the Royal Rumble and Saturday Night's Main Event. Fans can look forward to more thrilling moments and intense rivalries as we move closer to WrestleMania season.