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CM Punk Returns July 6, Targets Cody Rhodes for Title Match

6/13/2026

37 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

WWE will bring CM Punk back to television as early as July 2026.
Sources say Punk could appear on the July 6 Raw episode at the Allstate Arena in Chicago.
Dave Meltzer reports Punk will be assigned to SmackDown to balance rosters with Cody Rhodes, Gunther and Rhea Ripley.
WWE is considering a feud with champion Cody Rhodes that could end in a world-title match at SummerSlam.

History

Historical Context

In February 2002 WWE revived Hulk Hogan at No Way Out, a surprise that preceded the March brand extension splitting the roster into Raw and SmackDown. The April 21 Backlash, the final WWF-branded PPV before May rebrand to WWE, featured nine matches and showed how returns boost ratings and merchandise. WWE uses comebacks to balance brands.

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Story summary

WWE will bring CM Punk back to television as early as July 2026.
Sources say Punk could appear on the July 6 Raw episode at the Allstate Arena in Chicago.
Dave Meltzer reports Punk will be assigned to SmackDown to balance rosters with Cody Rhodes, Gunther and Rhea Ripley.
WWE is considering a feud with champion Cody Rhodes that could end in a world-title match at SummerSlam.

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