Overview
- CM Punk has not appeared on WWE television since the April 20 episode of Raw, the night after WrestleMania 42, when he was placed near Cody Rhodes in a segment that teased future storylines.
- Multiple wrestling outlets report reliable company sources say there are no current disputes between Punk and WWE and that his time off is a rest rather than a disciplinary or contractual issue.
- Claims circulating on social media that Punk demanded a release or was asked to take a pay cut remain unverified and have been called unsubstantiated by established outlets.
- Reporting notes WWE is preparing new Punk merchandise and has booked summer appearances, and some sources say he is being advertised for shows that could include the July 6 Raw in Chicago and a role at SummerSlam, though those dates and story plans are not officially confirmed.
- Punk’s recent WrestleMania main event status, his multi‑year WWE deal, and AJ Lee’s part‑time contract help explain why the company would hold him for a top‑card return and why his absence generated intense fan and media speculation.