Wrestling Rumors Official "Raw" Preview – Monday, December 25, 2017

Tonight’s episode of “Raw” emanates from the Allstate Arena in Chicago, Illinois. Here’s what we can expect from the Christmas edition of the show:

John Cena returns

The free agent is back, as John Cena makes his return to WWE programming since his appearance at “Survivor Series.” I imagine will do some kind of Santa Claus bit for the kids in the audience, as well as plug his new movie, “Ferdinand.” If he was going to be a part of a storyline, I could see him declaring an entry into the “Royal Rumble,” or make a challenge for WrestleMania.

John Cena joins Team SmackDown at Survivor Series in shocking reveal: WWE Now

The Women’s division prepares to make history

Stephanie McMahon made history last week, when she announced the first ever Women’s “Royal Rumble” match in the company’s history. I imagine that several entries will be declared tonight, along with the rules of the match.

Stephanie McMahon announces the first-ever Women's Royal Rumble Match: Raw, Dec. 18, 2017

Who will gain momentum en route to a battle with The Beast?

The Universal Championship match for “Royal Rumble” was announced last week, when General Manager Kurt Angle declared that Brock Lesnar would be defending his title against both Kane and Braun Strowman in a Triple Threat match. I’m not sure how things will play out tonight, but I would expect to see both competitors in singles matches to establish their dominance leading up to the encounter.

Brock Lesnar's Royal Rumble challengers revealed: Raw, Dec. 18, 2017

How will Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins get payback for Dean Ambrose?

Samoa Joe wrote Dean Ambrose off of television last week, when himself and The Bar attacked him backstage. The Shield will attempt to retaliate this week, however, I have to think that their interactions will have more of an effect on the next topic that will be covered in this preview.

Samoa Joe, Sheamus and Cesaro brutalize Dean Ambrose in the trainer's room: Raw, Dec. 18, 2017

Who else will declare for the Men’s Royal Rumble Match?

The fun and games are officially underway, as Elias was the first superstar to declare himself an entrant into the “Royal Rumble” match. Qualifying matches, pleads to Kurt Angle, etc. will all come into play, as the the “Raw” field for the big match will begin to take place.