WWE Superstar Bronson Reed Pulled from RAW Due to COVID-19; Intercontinental Championship Contenders Match Impacted

WWE fans were met with disappointing news as rising star Bronson Reed was announced to be “medically unable to compete” in tonight’s episode of Monday Night RAW. The powerful wrestler, known for his impressive performances against top WWE talent, has been sidelined due to a positive COVID-19 test.

RAW General Manager Adam Pearce broke the news earlier today on X (formerly Twitter), revealing that Reed would miss the Intercontinental Championship Contenders Triple Threat match due to the virus. Pearce stated, “Plenty of good vibes to go around, but I’m here with a bit of bad, breaking news. Bronson Reed, medically unable to compete tonight, has COVID. Out of the Intercontinental Championship Contenders Triple Threat.”

Pearce assured fans that a replacement for Reed would be announced later in the evening, promising updates on who would step in to fill the vacancy in the highly anticipated match. “And who steps in? Well, I can assure you I’m working on that, and you will have an answer tonight, 8/7 Central, only on USA,” he added.

Reed responded to the news with a determined message on social media. “No man in WWE can stop me. So mother nature had to go and do them a favor. I’ll recover and be back to destruction ASAP!” Reed’s reaction highlighted his commitment to return to action as soon as possible, despite the setback.

Earlier in the day, Reed shared the news of his positive COVID-19 test on Instagram, posting a picture of the test result along with a series of images depicting painful moments and pop culture references. The simple caption read, “Life,” underscoring the personal nature of his current struggle.

Reed was a key contender in the Intercontinental Championship Contenders Tournament, where he was expected to face off against Bron Breakker for the title. His absence from the tournament is a significant blow, as he was seen as a favorite to advance.

Having joined WWE in 2019, Reed initially competed in NXT, capturing the NXT North American Championship in a fierce Steel Cage Match against Johnny Gargano. After a notable run, including a victory in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal in 2024, Reed’s first WWE tenure ended in August 2021 when he was released. He made a triumphant return to WWE’s main roster in 2022, and his absence from RAW is a notable setback in his promising career.

As WWE fans await news on the replacement for tonight’s match, Reed’s supporters remain hopeful for his swift recovery and return to the ring.