SouthernWorldwide.com – CM Punk is set to defend his Undisputed WWE Championship against Cody Rhodes at SummerSlam.
The announcement came after Punk appeared on “Friday Night SmackDown,” having just secured the Undisputed WWE Championship by defeating Sami Zayn.
Entering the ring in Oklahoma City, Punk referenced a past statement he made on “Monday Night Raw” following WrestleMania 42. He had told Cody Rhodes that he would be prepared to seize any championship opportunity that presented itself unexpectedly.
“When championship opportunities fall out of the sky, CM Punk catches them,” Punk declared.
Punk then listed several SmackDown superstars he anticipated might challenge for his title. These included Gunther, Finn Balor, Royce Keys, Damian Priest, and Trick Williams. He even extended an offer for Sami Zayn to return for a rematch if he desired.
Notably absent from Punk’s list was Cody Rhodes. However, the “American Nightmare” unexpectedly emerged and made his way to the ring.
“I don’t think you and I can run away from each other anymore,” Punk stated directly to Rhodes.
Rhodes concurred, acknowledging that Punk would likely seek a match with him and simply asked Punk to name the time.
Punk’s immediate response was “when,” setting the stage for the championship bout.
SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis, who was present in the ring during this segment, officially booked the match for SummerSlam.
CM Punk will defend the Undisputed WWE Championship at SummerSlam. The event is scheduled to take place on August 1 and 2 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.
However, before their championship clash, Punk and Rhodes will first compete in a tag team match at Saturday Night’s Main Event in New York City next week.
This tag team match was arranged by Aldis after Gunther demanded a one-on-one match with Punk, hoping it would be for the championship.
Instead, Gunther will team up with Sami Zayn for the tag team bout.
Unpleased with this decision, Gunther reacted by attacking Aldis.
Cody Rhodes then re-entered the scene to de-escalate the situation and intervene in the altercation.
Following the show’s broadcast, Rhodes attempted to confront Gunther, but the latter chose to walk away.
It appears CM Punk is embracing his role as a fighting champion, with his move to SmackDown promising a series of high-profile encounters.
