Top RAW Rumors & News: Massive star released for not living up to his 'big-money' contract, Big name's return status, CM Punk reacts to Malakai Black

A very warm welcome to another edition of the top RAW backstage rumors and news stories that could have a major impact on the flagship show in the future. In today's edition, we will examine some interesting stories revolving around superstars such as CM Punk, Malakai Black, and Gable Steveson.

The Voice of the Voiceless, CM Punk, has been out with an arm injury since Royal Rumble 2024. Despite being injured, he is still part of one of the hottest feuds on RAW with Drew McIntyre. The former AEW Superstar might not be All Elite anymore, but he is still in touch with AEW wrestlers.

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1) CM Punk reacts to Malaki Black's post

Former WWE star Aleister Black, who now wrestles for AEW under the name Malakai Black, shared a special post on Instagram on his 39th birthday. He showed a video of training in the gym along with his wife Zelina Vega. He could be seen practicing his boxing. RAW Superstar CM Punk liked the photo, showing his appreciation for Black's hard work.

Before being released by AEW and joining WWE, CM Punk had returned to wrestling after seven years by joining AEW. Fans wanted to see a feud between the leader of the House of Black and the former WWE Champion CM Punk. However, it did not happen. It is good to see that the two men still share a strong bond and keep in touch.

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2) RAW Superstar Ivar reveals his return status in an emotional post

While Ivar is a RAW Superstar, he is also a regular on NXT. At the end of this week's NXT, the Viking Raider was attacked by Gallus, creating an injury angle to write Ivar off TV due to a real injury. This injury has caused him to miss potential title opportunities on WWE Speed and NXT TV. As of earlier today, the severity of his injury is still unknown. Here is what Ivar had to say about a potential return:

"There has been alot of misinformation floating around about me. Let me clarify: Yes I am injured. Yes it is very serious. No I have not had surgery. Still trying to figure out all options and what this means for my future.''

He went on to thank his fans for showing him support and love. He said that he owes it to everyone who has believed in him to work as hard as possible in order to make his return soon. He then stated, "See you as soon as I can."

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3) Reason behind Gable Steveson being released by WWE

Former Olympic Gold Medalist Gable Steveson had been brought into WWE with much fanfare. He was even drafted to RAW before he had competed in a match. Unfortunately, his tenure turned out to be a complete dud. Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio revealed that Steveson had a 'big-money' contract and the company did not see value in it.

''On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer said Gable Steveson was released by WWE because he had a big money contract and wasn’t living up to it,'' stated Cagesideseats.

Steveson was part of the multiple names let go by the company this year. While his release came as a surprise to some, given his star power and potential as an athlete, it should be noted that he did not take to pro wrestling like other Olympians such as Kurt Angle, Ronda Rousey, or Chad Gable.