CM Punk expected back on WWE television for SummerSlam 2026 despite internet speculation
As seen during WWE WrestleMania 42 Sunday, Roman Reigns defeated CM Punk to become the new world heavyweight champion. Punk has not appeared on WWE television since the night after WrestleMania.
Over the past few days, numerous unverified Punk rumors have surfaced on social media, all alleging some form of tension between him and WWE and/or claiming that he has requested his release from the company. Mike Johnson of PWInsider.com noted the following about Punk’s status…
“In speaking with a trusted WWE source today, their only comment was, ‘It has as much truth to it as the stories that claimed Saudi Arabia bought us years ago.’ While they were not aware of why Punk has been off television, the source noted there is new merchandise being put together and Punk appearances are set for this summer. So, this is, as they would say, much ado about nothing.”
Furthermore, Fightful.com noted that “nobody in WWE, among the dozens @FightfulSelect has spoken to, has heard that Punk wanted out of his WWE contract, and no talent we heard from believed he was asked to take a pay cut.”
While no official return date has been confirmed, Punk is currently being advertised for the July 6th edition of RAW in his hometown of Chicago, IL.