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CM Punk Reportedly Set for SmackDown Upon WWE Return

CM Punk is reportedly slated to move to SmackDown when he returns to WWE TV, with his absence said to be creative related. A possible feud with Cody Rhodes has also been discussed.

By Editor1 min read
CM PunkWWE returnSmackDownCody RhodesWorld Heavyweight ChampionshipNight of ChampionsSummerSlam 2026Roman Reigns

Punk has been off WWE programming since the Raw following WrestleMania 42, where he dropped the World Heavyweight Championship to Roman Reigns. Unverified rumors circulated this week suggesting Punk and WWE may be at odds over the layoff, though his absence is said to be creative related rather than fallout from a dispute.

A possible CM Punk versus Cody Rhodes program has been floated. WWE teased tension between Punk and Rhodes, the current Undisputed WWE Champion, on that post WrestleMania Raw. Rhodes is currently embroiled in a feud with Gunther and Sami Zayn, and he is scheduled to defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Gunther on the June 19 episode of SmackDown.

Punk's return could be targeted for sometime after Night of Champions on June 27. WWE also has Saturday Night's Main Event set for July 18 ahead of SummerSlam 2026 on August 1 and 2.

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