As noted before, WWE has been in talks with a “former WWE champion” for a surprise appearance at tonight’s WWE RAW Day 1 show in San Diego, California.
Fightful Select reported that it is still currently not known who this mystery person is but it will not be Mercedes Mone based on those spoken to within WWE.
In regards to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson being the potential mystery person, one high-level WWE officials spoken to did not confirm nor deny The Rock being this person but did stated that it was a “compelling argument.” The origin of the rumors of The Rock being this person revolves around an appearance he made today on ESPN’s College Gameday show that was held in Pasadena, California and only a couple hours drive from WWE’s show tonight.
In regards to the verbiage surrounding this mystery person, it was reported that they were not able to confirm if this means a former “WWE Champion” and not just anyone who held a championship in WWE. It was reported that talent and creative sources spoken to currently do not known who this person will be.
In regards to WWE’s plans for this mystery person’s appearance, it was reported that WWE officials currently have planned for this person to make their appearance on tonight’s show around mid-way and be given a full segment.

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
WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event Results – Jan. 24, 2026 – Randy Orton vs. Damian Priest vs. Sami Zayn vs. Trick Williams
WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event Notes: Joe Tessitore Misses Show Due To Travel Issues, Stephanie Vaquer Makes Surprise Injury Return & Gets Physical, Sami Zayn vs. Drew McIntyre for Undisputed WWE Title Set for Royal Rumble 2026




