Last night, CM Punk returned to the top of the mountain on WWE Raw. After a back-and-forth battle with Jey Uso in the headliner of Saturday Night’s Main Event, the “Cult of Personality” won his seventh world title and got back the belt he held for just a few minutes before Seth Rollins cashed in his Money in the Bank briefcase at SummersSlam.
Following his title win, now is a perfect time to look at what could be next for Punk. With that in mind, let’s look at five possible opponents for his first World Heavyweight title defense, which will likely take place in front of over 40,000 fans in San Diego at Survivor Series.
Dominik Mysterio
Dominik Mysterio is on fire right now. While he isn’t winning many matches clean, he continues to brilliantly find ways to hold on to his titles every month. It also seems like the company is a big fan, because he has had a lengthy Intercontinental title reign and is also the AAA Mega Champion. Seeing how far his hot streak could go and chasing a third title in his hometown could be interesting.
Furthermore, Punk will likely hold on to the belt for a couple of months, so he needs a challenger who can take a loss that won’t hurt their momentum.
Bronson Reed
Most expect Bron Breakker will be a world champion in the next six months. But reports suggest the company is not going to rush to put a top title on him. That is why it would be very interesting if his faction brother, Bronson Reed, was able to beat him for a title opportunity. It could set the early seeds of a developing schism between them while giving the champ an intriguing test he has issues with.
Brock Lesnar
Since Survivor Series will be a stadium event, the company is sure to bring in big-name talent to make sure it is a major success. That is why a Brock Lesnar return is likely. Punk and Lesnar faced off at SummerSlam 2013 in a “The Best vs. The Beast” clash that the latter won. Running it back in 2026 makes sense because it is still a major marquee matchup, and Punk getting a revenge win would be fitting.
Logan Paul
Logan Paul is another major name that is sure to return in the build toward Survivor Series later this month. With the company always interested in using his notoriety for major matchups, winning a No. 1 contender battle royale and facing CM Punk in San Diego would be a classic WWE move that would help their bottom line for the event at Petco Park.
Rey Mysterio
WWE legend Rey Mysterio is expected to return soon following a groin injury he suffered in April. He is San Diego’s greatest wrestling star, and getting one last title matchup in his hometown would be a fitting moment in what could be the final 12 months of his career. Furthermore, he and Punk have a long history and great chemistry, so the build and match would be very entertaining.
