CM Punk returns to WWE on RAW; shockingly wins World title after 15 years

WWE RAW’s July 6th 2026 episode will be remembered as a memorable edition of the show as a surprise turn of events saw not only the return of CM Punk to WWE after months, but something even bigger.

The Best in the World re-emerged at the perfect time at the perfect place and left the AllState Arena with the Undisputed WWE Championship, 15 years after last winning the same title in the Stamford-based promotion.

CM Punk returned to WWE to replace Cody Rhodes in his match

The start of the July 6 episode saw Cody Rhodes confronting Sami Zayn in the backstage segment as he arrived in the building. After a little heated moment, Zayn walked away, but Rhodes was attacked by Gunther, who unexpectedly showed up after being sent home following his altercation with SmackDown GM Nick Aldis at Night of Champions.

He planted Rhodes through a table and then hit his head into Zayn’s car, leaving everyone shocked.As the night progressed, Cody Rhodes was being examined by the medical personnel. Despite his pleas to let him compete, Rhodes was sent to the local medical facility for further testing, and it was clear that he would not be competing against Sami Zayn for the Undisputed WWE Championship in the main event. However, SmackDown GM Nick Aldis appeared and told RAW GM Adam Pearce that he had found a suitable replacement for the match.

As the time for the main event came, Sami Zayn came down to the ring to await his mystery opponent. The camera then panned to the entrance of the AllState Arena, where the garage door opened, and CM Punk was revealed to be standing behind it. The Second City Saint had returned following his last appearance on the RAW after WrestleMania 42 and was ready to compete against Zayn for the title.

Despite being thrown off his game, The Underdog from the Underground delivered a compelling performance against Punk, with the stakes being higher than ever. Overall, it was a captivating showdown with both men refusing to give up. However, Punk finally gained the upper hand and hit Zayn with his own version of the Helluva Kick. He followed it up with a GTS and pinned Zayn for the three count to become the new Undisputed WWE Champion in shocking fashion.

With Punk changing the landscape in one night after his return, the road to SummerSlam PLE has become even more intriguing to watch.Also read: 4-time World Champion parts ways with WWE after nearly 20 years; recent move seemingly confirms