Batista is backstage at tonight’s Raw and is expected to appear on the show, according to Dave Meltzer.
He is being hidden from others backstage, but apparently not hidden enough.
There were reports that Batista was in talks with WWE as recently as a couple of weeks ago. AEW was also reportedly interested, but Dave Meltzer later reported that that wasn’t going to happen.
The original plan was for Batista to wrestle Triple H at WrestleMania, but that was put in jeopardy when Triple H tore his pectoral muscle at Crown Jewel in November. It’s not known if Triple H will be OK in time for that match, but we may find out tonight.

WWE SmackDown Ratings – Jan. 16, 2026 – Down, Under 1 Million Viewers For 2nd Week In a Row
Harley Cameron on Saraya Being “Close Lippped” About Her Wrestling Career Future and Kris Statlander & Orange Cassidy Helping Improve Her Wrestling Career
WWE SmackDown Notes: Roman Reigns & More Declares for Men’s Royal Rumble, Jordynne Grace & More Declares for Women’s Royal Rumble, The MFTs Wins WWE Tag Titles, AJ Styles vs. Shinsuke Nakamura Set for 1/24 SNME Show, Giulia & Kiana James Wins Shot at WWE Women’s Tag Titles




