Five WrestleMania 40 matches WWE should book for CM Punk (& 5 they shouldn't)
CM Punk’s shocking return to WWE at Survivor Series has set the wrestling world abuzz with speculation and excitement. Fans and pundits alike are eagerly anticipating the future storylines and matches that will define Punk’s return. As the wrestling landscape has evolved since his departure nearly a decade ago, the creative team faces the crucial decision of selecting CM Punk’s opponent for the Grandest Stage Of Them All—WrestleMania 40.
In this article, we explore five potential WrestleMania 40 matches that WWE should consider booking for CM Punk and five matchups that, for various reasons, should be avoided. With a revamped roster and endless possibilities, the choices made for Punk’s first ‘Mania opponent will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of his return.
5 WrestleMania 40 Matches WWE Should Book For CM Punk:
5. GUNTHER
Having risen to prominence during his Intercontinental Championship run, Gunther stands as one of WWE’s biggest stars. A clash with CM Punk could elevate both the wrestler and the title, providing an exciting opportunity for fans to witness a compelling encounter between two distinct talents.
4. Finn Balor
The Judgment Day faction, a top heel group in WWE, presents a captivating first storyline for CM Punk’s return. Focusing on Finn Balor within the faction aligns well with Punk’s anticipated babyface run, promising an engaging narrative and a potential dream match for fans who have yet to witness these two dynamic performers in the ring together.
3. Kevin Owens
A matchup against Kevin Owens offers a blend of real-life connections and in-ring chemistry. Owens’ friendship with The Young Bucks and his ability to carry a major program make him an appealing choice for Punk’s return. Their passionate personalities could translate into a captivating storyline, and their in-ring styles promise a match worthy of the WrestleMania stage.
2. Drew McIntyre
Drew McIntyre’s recent heel turn opens the door for a fresh dynamic in potential matchups, including a clash with CM Punk. The contrast in their wrestling styles could create an intriguing spectacle, while both performers’ storytelling prowess and microphone skills suggest the potential for a memorable angle leading up to WrestleMania.
1. Seth Rollins
Of all the current roster members, Seth Rollins emerges as the obvious choice to face CM Punk. Their history dates back to Rollins’ time in The Shield, and Rollins has been vocal about his feelings regarding Punk’s return. With Punk destined to be one of WWE’s biggest stars, a World Championship match against Rollins could headline WrestleMania 40, drawing significant attention with its potential for a shoot-style encounter and an exceptional in-ring performance.
5 WrestleMania 40 Matches WWE Shouldn’t Book For CM Punk:
5. Cody Rhodes
While a matchup with Cody Rhodes could be a marquee bout, current circumstances, including both wrestlers’ babyface statuses and their shared history in AEW, suggest that this encounter should be avoided for now. The focus should be on individual paths and storylines that don’t inadvertently spotlight a rival company.
4. Brock Lesnar
Though a clash between CM Punk and Brock Lesnar would undoubtedly be thrilling, the timing might not be right for WrestleMania 40. Both superstars could benefit from separate feuds, allowing them to shine individually before potentially revisiting their storied rivalry in the future.
3. John Cena
While John Cena played a pivotal role in CM Punk’s iconic “Summer of Punk” in 2011, the current dynamic between the two, characterized by mutual respect and a resolved past, makes a WrestleMania 40 showdown unnecessary. The stage is set for new and compelling storylines that don’t rely on revisiting past rivalries.
2. Randy Orton
Despite both Punk and Randy Orton making comebacks at Survivor Series, a rematch between them at WrestleMania 40 could feel underwhelming. Their history at WrestleMania 27 should be acknowledged, but the focus should be on fresh matchups that showcase the evolution of both performers.
1. Roman Reigns
While a future showdown between CM Punk and Roman Reigns holds immense potential, WrestleMania 40 might not be the right time. Reigns is in a position to elevate and establish a major star, and that role should be reserved for someone like Cody Rhodes at this stage in Punk’s career. The clash between Punk and Reigns should be carefully timed for maximum impact, ensuring a significant moment in the future.
In the lead-up to WrestleMania 40, the decisions made for CM Punk’s opponent will be pivotal in shaping the narrative of his return and the overall excitement surrounding the event. With a plethora of options available, WWE has the opportunity to craft a compelling storyline that captivates fans and solidifies CM Punk’s place in the modern wrestling landscape.
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