CM Punk and Finn Balor Clash on WWE 'Raw', Je'Von Evans Earns Elimination Chamber Spot

World Heavyweight Champion confronts his next challenger, while newcomer Evans wins big match to qualify for upcoming pay-per-view

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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On the latest episode of WWE 'Raw', World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk confronted his next opponent Finn Balor, with the two exchanging words in the ring. Meanwhile, newcomer Je'Von Evans won a Triple Threat match against Dominik Mysterio and the dominant Gunther, earning a spot in the upcoming Elimination Chamber pay-per-view event.

Why it matters

The confrontation between Punk and Balor sets the stage for their upcoming title match at Elimination Chamber, while Evans' victory is a breakthrough moment for the young wrestler as he secures a high-profile opportunity at the pay-per-view.

The details

Punk and Balor traded barbs in the ring, with Balor claiming Punk hadn't put in the work Balor had in Europe, Japan and Mexico to hone his skills. Punk acknowledged Balor's past accomplishments but said Judgement Day has 'dragged him down.' In the main event, Evans capitalized on an attack by Dragon Lee on Gunther to win the Triple Threat match and earn a spot in the Elimination Chamber.

  • The Elimination Chamber pay-per-view is scheduled for February 28, 2026.
  • The Triple Threat match that determined the final entrant in the Elimination Chamber took place on the February 17, 2026 episode of WWE 'Raw'.

The players

CM Punk

The reigning WWE World Heavyweight Champion, known for his outspoken personality and technical wrestling ability.

Finn Balor

A former Universal Champion who is the next challenger for Punk's title, known for his 'Demon King' persona and membership in the Judgement Day faction.

Je'Von Evans

A rising young wrestler who earned a spot in the upcoming Elimination Chamber pay-per-view with his victory in the Triple Threat main event match on 'Raw'.

Gunther

The dominant Intercontinental Champion who was attacked by Dragon Lee during the Triple Threat match, allowing Evans to capitalize and win.

Dominik Mysterio

The Intercontinental and AAA Mega Champion, who was defeated by Evans in the Triple Threat match.

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What they’re saying

“Something I noticed about all of those great things you did, you did it by yourself. I didn't see Judgement Day by your side in those European dojos or those Japan dojos or when you were taking on all the great luchadors in Mexico.”

— CM Punk, WWE World Heavyweight Champion (UPI)

“You used to mean something man. I think everybody here in Memphis can agree that Judgement Day has been an anchor around your neck for a very, very long time. And I could say that somebody as skilled as you would bring them up to your level, but they've only dragged you down to theirs.”

— CM Punk, WWE World Heavyweight Champion (UPI)

What’s next

The winner of the Elimination Chamber match on February 28 will earn a championship match against Undisputed WWE Champion Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42.

The takeaway

This episode of WWE 'Raw' featured high-stakes confrontations and a breakout performance from a rising star, setting the stage for major pay-per-view events to come and showcasing the depth of talent in WWE's current roster.