“Winner Takes All” – CM Punk Challenged By WWE Champion
CM Punk is the reigning WWE World Heavyweight Champion.
Ahead of the Royal Rumble 2026, he appeared on the pre-show, where Punk publicly called out Carmelo Hayes, stating that he wants the United States Championship. He noted that while he has won every other title in WWE, he has never held the US Title.
The Second City Saint added that winning it is necessary for him to become a Grand Slam Champion, which is why he is coming for Hayes and his title.
Carmelo Hayes responded to Punk’s challenge on the February 3 episode of the Beyond The Bell podcast. Hayes said that the only way he would put his United States Championship on the line is if Punk also puts his own championship on the line, with the winner walking away with both titles.
“He called me out at the Rumble. Yeah, I definitely want to wrestle CM Punk. If we do it, it’s got to be winner takes all—double champ. There’s nothing wrong with that.”
Carmelo Hayes Is Confident He Can Beat CM Punk In A Singles Match
Carmelo expressed deep respect for Punk, saying he grew up looking up to him, but added that if they ever face each other in the ring, he is confident he would defeat Punk.
“I’ve been watching him since I was a kid, right? I’ve looked up to CM Punk, and he’s been a mentor to a lot of the younger guys backstage, despite what people want to say. He’s always been a mentor to a lot of us, and he’s always excited to see us have our first moments.”
“As far as getting in the ring with him? I’d probably run circles around him, honestly. I mean, no—I think CM Punk’s a great in-ring performer, but I don’t think he’s ready for what I’ve got. Because, man, I’m just going right now, bro. Week to week to week with it.”
“Yeah, I did say it. And I’m very much looking forward to that match. I challenge CM Punk to really bring the heat, man. Like I said, he’s on a roll too. He’s having a great title reign. But we can go title reign for title reign—and I don’t think he’s touching Melo.”