Important WWE News and Rumors for January 5

WWE is gearing up for an exciting 2025 with major developments in the works for WrestleMania 41, roster switches, and brand-new shows on the horizon. Whether it’s a potential match between Seth Rollins and GUNTHER, The Rock’s uncertain return, or the upcoming changes to NXT, there’s never a dull moment in the world of WWE. From WrestleMania 41 matchups to intriguing roster changes, there’s a lot to discuss. Here’s your WWE News and Rumors roundup for January 5.

The Rock’s Potential Return at WrestleMania 41

WrestleMania 41 might also feature the electrifying return of The Rock, as The Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that he is expected to appear “in some form.” While it’s still uncertain whether The Rock will step into the ring for a match, sources close to the situation suggest that those “at the top” are leaning toward a wrestling return for the People’s Champion. The Rock himself had previously shown interest in a “WWE Title vs. People’s Title” match, which could disrupt existing plans, such as the potential Cody Rhodes vs. John Cena showdown. It seems the WWE universe might get the electrifying spectacle it’s been dreaming of!

Tiffany Stratton’s Big Moment on SmackDown

Tiffany Stratton’s Money in the Bank cash-in on Nia Jax was one of the most closely guarded secrets in WWE, with Insider confirming that it had been planned for weeks. The cash-in was specifically designed for SmackDown’s expanded three-hour format, with the goal of kicking off the show with a “big moment.” This well-timed and executed storyline highlight had fans on the edge of their seats, proving that WWE knows how to keep its audience hooked.

WrestleMania 41 Set to Feature Huge Match: Seth Rollins vs. GUNTHER

The most thrilling update comes from Ibou of WrestlePurists, who revealed that one of the highly anticipated matchups at WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas is currently planned to be Seth Rollins versus GUNTHER. Both stars have been on an upward trajectory, and the thought of them clashing at the grandest stage of them all is enough to send fans into a frenzy. If the plans hold, it could be one of the standout matches of the weekend, especially considering both superstars’ incredible in-ring abilities.

WWE Royal Rumble 2026 Set for Saudi Arabia

Exciting news for WWE fans in the Middle East—Fightful has confirmed that the Royal Rumble 2026 will take place in Saudi Arabia. Sources indicate that site layouts have been in development for months, and although the venue hasn’t been officially confirmed, all signs point to Riyadh as the likely host city. This is just the latest in WWE’s ongoing expansion into the international market.

Drew McIntyre and Sami Zayn Moving to SmackDown

In terms of roster shifts, PW Insider is reporting that Drew McIntyre is expected to make a move from Raw to SmackDown in the near future. This is part of a wider trend, as Ibou further notes that Sami Zayn will also be making the switch to SmackDown, setting the stage for a potential reunion with his old friend, Kevin Owens. While WWE talents are set for some permanent brand changes, Fightful Select also mentions that there will be plenty of movement between shows for a while, suggesting that fans can expect a lot of surprises in the coming months.

New NXT Evolve Show on the Horizon

Big changes are also happening in NXT. F4WOnline’s Dave Meltzer dropped a bombshell that NXT Level Up will be replaced by a new project called NXT Evolve. This initiative, which is reportedly a Gabe Sapolsky project, is set to debut in the coming months. PW Insider added that tapings for the show could take place at the WWE Performance Center, with some speculation that it could feature both current WWE talents and indie wrestlers. The exact air dates and platform for NXT Evolve remain unclear, but it’s sure to be an exciting development for WWE fans.

SmackDown’s New Blue Ring Mat and Sponsorship Experiment

WWE has also been experimenting with different ring mats. Fightful reports that SmackDown’s new blue mat is a significant shift, but there was also an earlier experiment with a black mat that featured sponsorship logos for Fortnite, Riyadh Season, and Hulk Hogan’s Real American Beer, among others. Although this particular mat wasn’t used on SmackDown, it might make an appearance on other WWE programming, such as Raw on Netflix. It’s all part of WWE’s ongoing efforts to create a more dynamic and engaging product.

Ric Flair’s Missed Cameo and SmackDown’s Opening Segment

In what could have been a special moment for fans, Insider revealed that Ric Flair was originally scheduled for a cameo on last night’s Collision in Charlotte, but unfortunately, he is no longer expected to appear. Meanwhile, Insider also reported that SmackDown’s opening segment saw a lot of last-minute revisions. Initially, the show was set to start with a Kevin Owens promo, which was supposed to be interrupted by Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. At one point, even Jey Uso was in the mix, but changes were made as the segment progressed.

Final Words of WWE News and Rumors for January 5

WWE’s move to Netflix will surely bring an exciting new feel to the product. With WrestleMania season on the horizon, WWE will bring some big names to highlight the big event. If Ric Flair, The Rock, and John Cena will be in the WWE in the next few days then what else will WWE fans ask for. Which is most surprising factor for you in our WWE News and Rumors for January 5?