However, contrary to some online speculation, WrestleVotes previously reported that Punk was simply taking time off. The sentiment was that "He'll be back in no time, right back on top of the card. It is not true that they have no plans for CM Punk." WWE has not yet announced a return date for Punk, though the upcoming episode of Raw in his hometown of Chicago has led to assumptions of an appearance. With SummerSlam less than a month away on August 1 and 2 in Minneapolis, a potential return would align strategically.

Regardless of any perceived friction, Punk remains a significant draw for the company. His main event appearance at WrestleMania 42 marked a career first for him, and his performance in that match left a lasting impression on wrestling fans.

WWE's Original Plans for Oba Femi's King of the Ring Victory

The initial plan within WWE for Oba Femi to forgo his world title opportunity at SummerSlam in favor of a match against Brock Lesnar reportedly had been a long-standing idea. According to Dave Meltzer of the Newsletter, Femi winning the King of the Ring tournament and then choosing to delay his title match was "always" the strategy.

WWE's objective with this approach is reportedly to build anticipation for an eventual showdown between Femi and world heavyweight champion Roman Reigns, positioning it as a major event. Femi secured a dominant victory over Lesnar at WrestleMania 42, but Lesnar later evened their score with a win at Clash in Italy. Oba Femi then proceeded to run through the field in the King of the Ring tournament.

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