WWE Raw May 5 Preview: Rusev vs. Otis, Penta vs. JD McDonagh & Logan Paul Targets Gold

WWE Raw is back this May 5 with an action-packed episode from Chi Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska—and with Backlash just days away on May 10, the stakes are higher than ever.

From Rusev’s return to the ring to Logan Paul challenging Jey Uso for the World Heavyweight Championship, this Raw is set to be a major turning point as WWE enters the post-WrestleMania season with full intensity.

Here’s everything you need to know about this week’s Raw, including match previews, major rivalries, surprise returns, and the official streaming time.

Hottest Matches Announced for Raw (May 5)

Rusev vs. Otis — A Powerhouse Collision

Rusev is officially back on Raw and he’s taking on none other than Otis, one of WWE’s strongest and most entertaining big men.

Fans are eager to see if Rusev still has the same fire and intensity, and Otis is no pushover—expect this to be a hard-hitting, physical showdown that could shake up the Raw power rankings.

JD McDonagh vs. Penta — Technical Warfare Meets Lucha Madness

This could be the match of the night.

JD McDonagh made a statement with his return last week, and now he’s stepping into the ring with AEW transplant and Lucha Libre legend Penta, who’s making his WWE Raw debut.

This one promises a mix of brutal strikes, aerial moves, and shocking reversals. Expect fireworks.

Other Superstars Scheduled to Appear

While the card has only two confirmed matches so far, Raw will be stacked with top names appearing in promos, run-ins, or maybe surprise brawls:

• Logan Paul, who now has his eyes on the World Heavyweight Championship.
• Jey Uso, who must respond to Logan’s challenge ahead of Backlash.
• Dominik Mysterio & Damian Priest from The Judgment Day.
• The New Day — Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods.

This could lead to tag matches, sneak attacks, or even more announcements for Backlash.

Quick Recap: What Happened on WWE Raw Last Week?

In case you missed it, last week’s Raw was full of twists, returns, and shock moments:

• Logan Paul boldly called out Jey Uso, setting up a blockbuster title match at WWE Backlash.
• JD McDonagh returned to in-ring action and made his presence felt.
• Bron Breakker scored a huge win over Sami Zayn, and then shockingly aligned with Seth Rollins, who delivered a brutal Curb Stomp to Zayn.
• Rhea Ripley beat Roxanne Perez via disqualification, thanks to Giulia interfering mid-match.
• The War Raiders (Erik & Ivar) took down The Judgment Day’s JD McDonagh and Finn Bálor in a surprise win.
• Stephanie Vaquer defeated Ivy Nile, continuing her quiet rise in the women’s division.

Backlash 2025: What’s Confirmed So Far?

With WWE Backlash set for May 10, here’s what we know about the card so far:

Jey Uso (c) vs. Logan Paul — World Heavyweight Championship

This headline match was made official after Logan’s fiery challenge on Raw. Can Jey Uso survive his first big defense?

Pat McAfee vs. Gunther

The crowd-favorite commentator Pat McAfee is lacing up his boots again—this time to face the dominant powerhouse Gunther in what could be a sleeper hit.

Becky Lynch vs. Lyra Valkyria — Women’s Intercontinental Championship

Becky Lynch finally admitted to attacking Bayley before WrestleMania, and now she’s coming for Lyra Valkyria’s title.

Expect drama and revenge to play a big role in this match.

What to Watch for on Raw (Storyline Predictions)

Will Logan Paul and Jey Uso Come to Blows?

With the World Heavyweight Title on the line at Backlash, expect tensions to explode between Logan Paul and Jey Uso. Will Logan sneak attack Uso? Will Seth Rollins get involved again?

Is Seth Rollins Forming a New Faction?

After aligning with Bron Breakker last week, fans are speculating: Is Seth forming a new alliance? Could a heel faction be forming?

Expect answers—or more chaos—this week.

What’s Next for Judgment Day?

After their loss to The War Raiders, and McDonagh’s upcoming match, things seem shaky inside The Judgment Day. Could a breakup or betrayal be brewing?

How to Watch WWE Raw (May 5)

• Location: Chi Health Center, Omaha, Nebraska
• Streaming: Live on Netflix
• Start Time: 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT

Want Tickets to Raw or Other WWE Events?

WWE is hitting the road! You can click here to see the full schedule of Raw, SmackDown, and Pay-Per-View events and grab your seats before they sell out.

Raw Is Ready to Explode Before Backlash

With Backlash 2025 just days away, this episode of Raw is a must-watch for WWE fans. From high-profile matchups like Rusev vs. Otis to major debuts and heated rivalries, WWE is firing on all cylinders.

Expect surprises, sneak attacks, emotional promos, and maybe even more matches added to the Backlash card before the night is over.

Don’t miss out—Raw streams live on Netflix at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT.