CM Punk has not been seen on WWE TV since April, following his World Heavyweight Championship loss to Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 42. His absence led to rumors circulating online earlier this week, alleging a rift between Punk and WWE. These rumors included suggestions that he was unhappy with the creative direction for his wife, AJ Lee, a dispute over something he politicked for at WrestleMania, and claims he had asked for his release from WWE.

On Wednesday, multiple sources reported there was no merit to these ongoing rumors, leading to an update on Punk's expected return to WWE TV.

Expected Return Details and SummerSlam Plans

CM Punk is expected to return to WWE TV by July, with many WWE sources indicating he is part of significant plans for August's two-day SummerSlam event.

One source has reportedly outlined CM Punk's return for Monday, July 6. This date would coincide with "WWE Raw" broadcasting live from the Allstate Arena in Chicago, the 47-year-old's hometown.

It is believed that Punk's return to TV will transpire sooner rather than later.

Addressing Backstage Tensions and Locker Room Impact

Updates also addressed the rumored tension between CM Punk and TKO. Sources indicate that none of the individuals spoken to noted any concerns between Punk and TKO. Furthermore, the situation has reportedly not impacted WWE's locker room. If any true animosity exists between CM Punk and WWE, it appears to have been kept extremely close to the vest.

Last Appearance and Speculation

CM Punk's latest appearance was on the "Raw" after WrestleMania 42, where a future match was teased between him and Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes during an in-ring segment. During this conversation, Punk made a notable claim:

I wasn't going on vacation

This statement, coupled with the length of his absence, further fueled speculation about a potential conflict with WWE.