BREAKING: CM Punk’s WWE SummerSlam Challenger Officially Revealed On SmackDown

It was the beginning of a new era on Friday Night SmackDown tonight as the new Undisputed WWE Champion was welcomed to the blue brand following the event of Monday Night RAW.

Sami Zayn was set to defend his title against Cody Rhodes on the red brand, but the American Nightmare was injured by a vicious attack from Gunther, leaving him unable to compete for the title.

Nick Aldis called in a replacement for Cody and it was revealed to be hometown hero, CM Punk, who defeated Sami to become the new Undisputed WWE Champion.

Nick Aldis confirms WWE SummerSlam main event

Following his win, he re-debuted as an official WWE SmackDown superstar tonight and spoke with the WWE Universe. He listed down the wealth of opponents he can face on the blue brand, and even offered Zayn a rematch for the title.

However, the one name that he missed out was of the American Nightmare, Cody Rhodes, who came out to confront him shortly afterwards. Rhodes stated that he’s here for the championship and reminded Punk of their conversation right after WrestleMania 42.

They both spoke about how a match between the two is one that has been much-awaited before CM Punk asked him to name a place. Rhodes then proceeded to challenge him at SummerSlam 2026. Punk accepted the challenge and Nick Aldis, who was present in the ring for this segment, made it official for the main event.

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