Austin Theory DEFEATS Rey Mysterio on RAW | Full Match Breakdown

On the January 26, 2026 episode of WWE Monday Night RAW, Austin Theory picked up a controversial victory over Rey Mysterio in an impromptu singles match. The bout came during Royal Rumble week, adding extra intensity to the card. General Manager Adam Pearce made the sudden announcement after tensions escalated involving The Vision faction. Theory, seemingly aligned with the group, faced the legendary luchador in a clash of styles and generations.

The match stemmed from ongoing rivalries. Rey Mysterio has been feuding with members of The Vision, including Bron Breakker, Bronson Reed, and Logan Paul. Austin Theory has been positioning himself within the faction after revealing himself as a masked attacker in previous weeks. Mysterio entered accompanied by allies like Penta and Dragon Lee, setting the stage for potential chaos outside the ring.

As the bell rang, Mysterio started fast. He targeted Theory’s legs with quick kicks, disrupting the taller wrestler’s base. Mysterio then exploded with a springboard hurricanrana that sent Theory reeling across the ring. The crowd erupted, showing support for the veteran whose high-flying ability remains unmatched even in 2026.

Theory absorbed the early offense but fired back with a stiff right hand that stunned Mysterio. He followed with a back elbow to halt Mysterio’s momentum mid-air during another aerial attempt. Mysterio rolled through and connected with a low slide dropkick to Theory’s knees, grounding him momentarily and shifting control back to the luchador.

Mysterio capitalized with inventive offense. He spun Theory around and flipped him into a double-knee drop directly to the torso. The move showcased Mysterio’s creativity and kept fans engaged. Theory struggled to breathe but managed to roll away, preventing an immediate pin attempt from the resilient veteran.

Theory regained footing by trapping Mysterio in a side headlock. He used the hold to wear down his opponent while teasing the removal of Mysterio’s iconic mask. The disrespectful taunt drew heavy boos from the audience, highlighting Theory’s heel persona. Mysterio fought out with elbows and fired punches in the corner.

Mysterio climbed the turnbuckles for a springboard crossbody, but Theory countered with a mid-air punch. He transitioned into his signature Attaxia, a twisting neckbreaker variation that planted Mysterio hard on the mat. The impact echoed through the arena as Theory began to dominate.

The action spilled to the apron. Mysterio climbed onto Theory’s shoulders during a suplex attempt. He turned the precarious position into a hurricanrana that took both men crashing over the ropes to the floor. The high-risk move energized the crowd, but it also opened the door for outside interference.

On the floor, The Vision made their presence felt. Members attacked Penta and Dragon Lee at ringside, drawing Mysterio’s attention away from the match. The distraction allowed Theory to recover and roll back into the ring. Mysterio returned frustrated, knowing the odds were tilting against him.

Back inside, Theory unleashed a barrage of stomps on Mysterio’s chest and head. He connected with a clothesline that flipped Mysterio inside out. The veteran showed heart by kicking out of near-falls, but Theory’s athleticism and aggression kept him in firm control of the pace.

Mysterio mounted a comeback. He dodged a charge and hit a seated senton followed by a dropkick that sent Theory into the corner. Fans chanted for Rey as he set up for his signature 619. Theory slipped out at the last second, avoiding the devastating kick to the face.

The Vision’s interference intensified. They surrounded the ring apron, shouting distractions and preventing clean breaks. Mysterio hesitated briefly, concerned for his allies outside. Theory capitalized on the moment, grabbing Mysterio and delivering a suplex back into the center of the ring.

Theory climbed the ropes for a high-risk move, but Mysterio crotched him on the top turnbuckle. Mysterio attempted a super hurricanrana, but Theory shoved him off mid-air. Mysterio crashed hard, allowing Theory to descend and regain momentum.

In the final sequence, Theory signaled for his finisher. He positioned Mysterio and hit The Stomp, driving his foot into Mysterio’s face with precision. The impact echoed as Theory covered for the three-count. The referee’s hand hit the mat at around the 11-minute mark, giving Theory the win.

The victory was tainted by The Vision’s constant involvement. Without their distractions and attacks on Mysterio’s allies, the match might have gone differently. Theory celebrated arrogantly, soaking in the boos while reinforcing his rising status in WWE.

Post-match chaos erupted immediately. Bron Breakker led The Vision in a brutal assault on Mysterio, Penta, and Dragon Lee. They laid out all three with spears, powerbombs, and stomps. Commentators questioned Adam Pearce’s absence, wondering why no punishment came during the beatdown.

The segment highlighted The Vision’s dominance on RAW. Their numbers advantage turned a competitive match into a showcase of faction power. Mysterio was left selling the effects as medical personnel checked on him, emphasizing the physical toll.

For Austin Theory, the win serves as a major momentum boost. Heading into the Royal Rumble, it solidifies his role within The Vision and positions him for bigger opportunities. Theory has evolved from a young prospect into a key heel player.

Rey Mysterio’s performance reminded fans why he remains a cornerstone of WWE. Despite the loss and interference, his heart and skill shone through. He continues to elevate younger talent while staying competitive at an advanced age.

This match fits into the larger storyline of generational conflict. The Vision represents new dominance, while Mysterio and his allies embody tradition and resilience. More clashes seem inevitable as the Road to WrestleMania builds.

Overall, the bout delivered excitement and drama. It blended athleticism, high spots, and faction warfare effectively. Austin Theory’s controversial triumph over Rey Mysterio will be remembered as a pivotal RAW moment in early 2026.