CM Punk's WWE Absence Explained: Schedule Changes Ahead of Clash in Italy
More details have emerged on CM Punk's absence from WWE programming as the Clash in Italy pay-per-view approaches.
CM Punk made a brief appearance on the April 20 episode of Monday Night Raw, one day after losing the World Heavyweight Championship to Roman Reigns in the main event of WrestleMania 42.
On Raw, Punk had a short interaction with WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. The latter told Punk, "Just say when," hinting at a potential title bout down the road.
In an update, False Finish reports that WWE adjusted CM Punk's post-WrestleMania schedule and creative plans, which is why he's been off of television for five weeks.
"Sources tell False Finish that CM Punk is currently awaiting creative to return to WWE TV," the report said. "Punk's schedule and creative were shifted after WWE made the decision to move Gunther to SmackDown along with bringing Jacob Fatu to RAW to feud with Roman Reigns."
Rhodes is set to defend his WWE Championship against Gunther at Clash in Italy on May 31, and Fatu will challenge Reigns for the World Heavyweight Championship.
Punk held the World Heavyweight Championship for 169 days before dropping the title to Reigns at WrestleMania.
CM Punk Is Reportedly Part of the SummerSlam 2026 Plans
Last week, WrestleVotes reported in a Q&A session (h/t Ryan Clark of eWrestlingNews) will return for SummerSlam 2026. The marquee pay-per-view takes place at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on the Aug. 1-2 weekend.
CM Punk competed at SummerSlam 2024 (a loss to Drew McIntyre) and SummerSlam 2025 (a victory over Gunther). WWE usually stacks up the SummerSlam card with its top stars, so it would be a surprise if CM Punk.
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on May 23, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published May 23, 2026 at 2:12 PM.