WWE Raw Recap: Tensions Rise Ahead of WrestleMania 41

MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota — As WrestleMania 41 approaches, WWE Raw delivered high-stakes action at the Target Center on April 7, 2025. The night was highlighted by a Women’s Intercontinental Championship bout between Lyra Valkyria and Bayley, along with appearances from top names including Paul Heyman and Seth Rollins.

General Manager Adam Pearce opened the show by introducing Women’s World Champion Iyo Sky and her challengers, Bianca Belair and Rhea Ripley, ahead of their triple threat match at WrestleMania. Fans erupted as the women signed the contract, further intensifying their rivalry. Belair, frustrated over Ripley’s inclusion, voiced her determination to win the title, stating, “I’m happy to be added to the match because I know I’m walking out as champion.” Ripley maintained her cool during the exchange, while Sky asserted her presence by delivering a springboard dropkick.

In the night’s first match, Lyra Valkyria retained her Women’s Intercontinental Championship against Bayley in a competitive showdown. Despite Bayley’s aggressive tactics, Valkyria countered and rolled the challenger for a pinfall victory. Post-match, Bayley initially refused to acknowledge her friend but ultimately embraced Valkyria, creating intrigue for their upcoming partnership in a Gauntlet match. This match also served as fodder for speculation, with fans wondering if Bayley can move past her disappointment.

El Grande Americano, teaming with the Creed Brothers, faced the LWO’s Dragon Lee, Joaquin Wilde, and Cruz Del Toro. In a chaotic trios match, Americano secured victory using a piece of metal from partner Ivy Nile, extending their rivalry heading into WrestleMania.

Later, Jey Uso made a statement by confronting Gunther before their championship clash. Digital displays of emotion marked Uso’s passionate promo, where he vowed to avenge his brother Jimmy’s injuries at the hands of Gunther, declaring, “I’m not afraid of you anymore.” The crowd’s engagement underscored the high stakes surrounding their upcoming match.

The main event featured a World Tag Team Championship match between The New Day and The War Raiders, which ended in disqualification due to Ivar’s use of a steel chair. The aftermath saw The New Day retaliate, foreshadowing further conflict between the teams.

Penta faced Dominik Mysterio in singles action, emerging victorious with his signature Penta Driver. Afterward, Bron Breakker intervened during a post-match attack, solidifying his position as a formidable contender in the Intercontinental Championship picture.

The evening culminated in chaos as Seth Rollins confronted Paul Heyman, which escalated when CM Punk intervened, leading to a physical altercation. Rollins concluded with the ominous statement, “Now you owe me a favor,” leaving fans eager for how these dynamics will unfold at WrestleMania.

As the show closed, the anticipation around WrestleMania 41 grew palpable, with every storyline intricately woven into an engaging narrative that captivated viewers. Next week, fans can expect even more fireworks as AJ Styles faces Karrion Kross and Roman Reigns makes his much-anticipated return.