One of the most famous moments from CM Punk’s “Summer of Punk” storyline has finally been cleared up. For years, fans believed Punk’s comments aimed at John Laurinaitis during a 2011 episode of RAW were unscripted and based on real backstage frustrations.

More than a decade after CM Punk delivered one of the most talked-about promos in wrestling history, former WWE executive John Laurinaitis has shed new light on how the company reacted behind the scenes.

There may be some clarity on CM Punk’s status with WWE. Punk hasn’t appeared on television since losing the World Heavyweight championship to Roman Reigns at Wrestlemania 42 in April. Rumors started to swirl online that Punk and WWE weren’t on the same page regarding his future.

Punk joined AEW in 2021, making his return to wrestling after leaving WWE in 2024. He was suspended by the company for his role in Brawl Out after AEW All Out 2022, and then fired after a backstage incident at AEW All In 2023. He returned to WWE at Survivor Series 2023.

Punk hasn't been on WWE television since April 20. What's really going on behind the scenes?

According to WrestleVotes on Fightful Select (h/t Gene Mrosko of Cageside Seats), there are no plans for a Reigns vs. Rhodes match anytime soon. After both Reigns and Rhodes had successful title defenses at Clash in Italy on May 31, Reigns took a shot at Rhodes by poking fun at his "QB1" moniker.

CM Punk has been away from WWE programming since RAW after WrestleMania 42. The Best in the World lost his World Heavyweight Championship the night before and has taken a break.

CM Punk's return is coming — and SummerSlam in Minneapolis is the logical destination. This Short breaks down the five opponents who make the most sense: Gunther, Roman Reigns, LA Knight, and Cody Rhodes,