CM Punk made a surprising return to WWE television on this week’s episode of Monday Night RAW, capturing the Undisputed WWE Championship by defeating Sami Zayn within the night’s predominant event. Now, recent details have emerged regarding WWE’s plans for Punk as champion.
In line with a report from WrestleVotes Radio, WWE is planning for Punk to enjoy a lengthy run with the Undisputed WWE Championship, with nearly all of his reign expected to happen on SmackDown. Although Punk remains to be listed as a RAW Superstar on WWE.com, the report suggests that his profile has simply not been updated to reflect the corporate’s current plans.
The report also states that WWE broadcast partner NBCUniversal has been lobbying for Punk to seem on SmackDown for well over a 12 months. NBCU executives reportedly view Punk as one among WWE’s biggest attractions and have long wanted him featured prominently on the blue brand. Despite that expected move, Punk remains to be scheduled to make appearances on RAW each time WWE feels his presence is required.
Punk’s championship victory got here after an unexpected twist earlier within the show. General Manager Adam Pearce announced that Cody Rhodes had not been medically cleared to compete, resulting in Punk stepping in as Rhodes’ surprise alternative against Sami Zayn.
The victory marked Punk’s first appearance on WWE television for the reason that RAW following WrestleMania 42, when he confronted Rhodes in a memorable segment.
With the win, Punk ended Sami Zayn’s Undisputed WWE Championship reign after just nine days. As previously reported, Zayn was left emotionally devastated following the loss, bringing his transient run at the highest to an abrupt end.
NOTE: If you may have any news suggestions or podcast recaps that you simply’d prefer to send in for us to post (full credit can be given to you), please email me at [email protected].