Sami Zayn lost the RAW World Championship on 10 Jul 2026, and a WWE Hall of Famer stepped into the interview booth to explain why the upset made sense for the brand’s long‑term plans.
Why did the loss happen?
The Hall of Famer, former champion and backstage veteran James "Jim Ross" Levesque, argued the decision was rooted in narrative balance. He noted that Zayn had held the title for 84 days, a run that elevated his credibility but risked stagnation. "You can’t keep the same guy forever," Levesque said, pointing to the need for fresh challengers to keep the audience guessing.
How does it affect Zayn’s character?
Levesque highlighted Zayn’s underdog persona, saying the loss fuels a classic redemption arc. "He’s the guy who always fights the odds. Dropping the belt now gives him a reason to go on a revenge road that fans love," he explained. The Hall of Famer believes Zayn’s next feud will likely involve a high‑stakes match at the upcoming Survivor Series.
What does this mean for RAW’s title picture?
According to Levesque, the new champion—Cody Rhodes, who captured the belt in a 2‑minute 34‑second showdown—brings a different style that broadens the show’s appeal. "Cody’s athleticism and charisma attract a younger demographic, while Zayn’s loss creates space for a fresh storyline," he added. The Hall of Famer also hinted that the decision could set up a multi‑person ladder match at WrestleMania, where Zayn might reclaim his spot.
What’s next for Sami Zayn?
Levesque predicts Zayn will embark on a “road to redemption” that includes a series of non‑title bouts to rebuild momentum. He expects Zayn to face Gunther in a hard‑hitting clash on the next RAW episode, a match that could re‑establish Zayn’s credibility. "If he can survive that, the fans will rally behind him again," Levesque concluded.
How fans are reacting
Social media lit up after the match, with #SamiZaynLoss trending on Twitter. Fans praised Zayn’s performance but expressed frustration over the quick title change. Levesque acknowledged the mixed reaction, noting that controversy often fuels viewership. "People love to debate. That’s why we do it," he said.
What does this say about WWE’s creative direction?
The Hall of Famer believes the move reflects WWE’s willingness to take calculated risks. By swapping champions at a pivotal moment, the company signals that no title is safe, keeping the product unpredictable. "It’s a reminder that anything can happen on a Monday night," Levesque affirmed.