Seth Rollins Vacates World Heavyweight Championship on WWE Raw
In a stunning moment on Monday Night Raw (October 20, 2025), Seth “Freakin” Rollins relinquished the World Heavyweight Championship after revealing a career-threatening injury. The emotional segment set the stage for a high-stakes tournament to determine a new titleholder, reshaping WWE’s main-event scene.
Rollins’ Heartbreaking Announcement
A visibly injured Rollins addressed the WWE Universe, his arm in a sling, explaining that doctors warned him to step away or risk permanent damage.
“I’ve given everything to this ring,” Rollins said, fighting tears. “But if I don’t heal now, I may never return. Tonight, I vacate this championship.”
The crowd responded with thunderous “Thank You, Seth!” chants as he left the title in the ring—a symbolic end to his reign.
8-Man Tournament to Crown New Champion
WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H announced an eight-man single-elimination tournament, with the finals at Crown Jewel. The stacked lineup includes:
- Drew McIntyre (seeking redemption)
- Sami Zayn (fan favorite chasing gold)
- Gunther (dominant force eyeing a new title)
- Jey Uso (post-Bloodline solo run)
- Shinsuke Nakamura (renewed aggression)
- Finn Bálor (Judgment Day’s leader)
- Bronson Reed (powerhouse dark horse)
- Chad Gable (momentum-driven underdog)
Night 1 Tournament Results
Two quarterfinal matches kicked off the action:
- Drew McIntyre def. Sami Zayn via Claymore after a back-and-forth thriller.
- Gunther def. Jey Uso with the Last Symphony, surviving a late rally.
Backstage, Nakamura and Bálor’s heated confrontation hinted at fireworks in next week’s bracket.
What’s Next for WWE Raw?
With Rollins sidelined, the tournament promises chaos and new rivalries. Key storylines to watch:
- Can McIntyre reclaim his spot, or will an underdog like Gable or Zayn rise?
- Will Gunther’s reign of terror extend to the world title?
- How will Rollins’ absence impact Raw’s main-event scene?
Stay tuned for updates as the road to Crown Jewel heats up!
