Why was there a special look-back episode of Raw instead of weekly one on December 25, 2023?

The December 25, 2023, edition of Monday Night Raw was a compilation of the best moments and matches of the year.

Why was there a special look-back episode of Raw instead of weekly one on December 25, 2023?

'Best of 2023' Raw (via WWE)

Throughout the history of the WWE, there has always been a constant phrase murmuring in the industry: “The show must go on.” However, the landscape has changed over the past year or so. Since Triple H took over day-to-day creative, the priority over wrestlers’ health and personal lives has grown. This was evident during the December 25, 2023 episode of Raw, which served as a ‘best of 2023’ compilation.

Due to the holiday season, WWE talent and crew were given the week off to spend time with their loved ones. Similarly, a pre-recording of last week’s SmackDown was shown for a similar reason. Also, the WWE Universe can expect a ‘best of 2023’ edition of the upcoming episode on December 29.

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Despite that, WWE will officially kick off their Holiday Tour tonight. Moreover, CM Punk will compete in his first match in almost a decade against Dominik Mysterio at the historic Madison Square Garden venue. Other notable names, such as Cody Rhodes and Rhea Ripley, will be in action as well.

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Recently, Randy Orton mentioned how talent is allowed to take time off during family occasions or emergencies. Needless to say, this change under Hunter’s regime has been a welcome one for wrestlers and fans. All in all, live WWE television will resume in the new year.

What is in store for next week’s WWE Day 1 edition of Raw?

WWE has announced a week of special editions of all three shows, starting with Day 1 on Monday Night Raw. The Red brand will start off the new year with big matches and segments. Most notably, Seth ‘Freakin’ Rollins will defend his World Heavyweight Championship against Drew McIntyre.

Seth 'Freakin' Rollins vs. Drew McIntyre on Raw Day 1
Seth ‘Freakin’ Rollins vs. Drew McIntyre on Raw Day 1 (via WWE)

Moreover, the title bout will most definitely headline the night. Meanwhile, Becky Lynch will square off against Nia Jax in a first-time match. As many might know, the rivalry between the two women goes back to five years ago, when the Irresistible Force injured The Man, leaving the latter with a broken nose.

Also, Rhea Ripley looks to continue her dominant run as she prepares for a new challenger, Ivy Nile. In addition to that, Natalya and Tegan Nox will compete in tag team action against Shayna Baszler and Zoey Stark. Without a doubt, it will be an intriguing watch on the Day 1 edition of Raw.

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