Backstage update on CM Punk's WWE absence - Report
WWE went with an injury angle immediately following Bash in Berlin with CM Punk. Although Punk appeared ready to move on to the world title picture on RAW two weeks ago, Drew McIntyre made his presence felt after suffering a humiliating loss in Germany on August 31.
McIntyre destroyed The Straight Edge Superstar in the ring. Punk was then stretchered out of the arena. Last week, The Scottish Warrior referenced his rival during an in-ring promo, but the latter was absent, and fans took notice of this. The former WWE Champion claimed that he had ended Punk's career. RAW GM Adam Pearce then came out to inform McIntyre that he will step inside Hell in a Cell with the former AEW World Champion.
According to Sean Ross Sapp on his Backstage Report podcast, CM Punk was not going to be part of the show irrespective of what happened the week prior. It had nothing to do with his hard-hitting Strap Match at Bash in Berlin, or Drew McIntyre's attack the following RAW.
The segment above was the end of Punk's bracelet, which played a major role in his rivalry with Drew McIntyre. How Punk responds to this has amplified the anticipation for the upcoming episode of RAW.
CM Punk has a dream match for 2025, and it is against a 16-time World Champion
After John Cena announced his 2025 WWE Farewell Tour at Money in the Bank in July, CM Punk immediately jumped at the chance to tease a final showdown between the two former rivals. As longtime fans are well aware, Cena and Punk have been so important for each other's careers.
On live television in July, The Straight Edge Superstar addressed his desire to face The Cenation Leader one last time. After congratulating the latter, Punk stated that he would love to lace up a pair of boots one last time with his old rival.
Here's a clip of his RAW promo:
But before Punk can get there, he has to move past The Scottish Warrior, who seems hell-bent on sending the former packing from WWE.
What are your thoughts on CM Punk's in-ring performances since WWE return in November 2023? Leave your comments on the Discuss button!