WWE SummerSlam 2026 Results: Randy Orton returns to RKO Cody Rhodes; CM Punk retains
(Courtesy :Â WWE)
CM Punk survives an instant classic against Cody Rhodes after a shocking return changes the outcome.
CM Punk retained the Undisputed WWE Championship in one of the most dramatic matches of SummerSlam 2026, overcoming Cody Rhodes in a grueling battle that showcased resilience, storytelling, and a stunning twist no one saw coming.
The two rivals delivered a back-and-forth contest filled with technical wrestling, limb targeting, submission attempts, near falls, and a surprise return that ultimately decided the championship clash.
From the opening bell, both men wasted little time testing each other. Punk landed an early slap across Rhodesâ chest, only for Rhodes to respond with one of his own before the pair traded stiff chops in the center of the ring.
CM Punk and Cody Rhodes target each otherâs injuries
The champion quickly identified Rhodesâ injured shoulder as his primary target, repeatedly attacking the arm with hammerlocks, arm breakers, snapmares, and punishing strikes.
Rhodes answered by slowing the pace with side headlocks before sending Punk crashing into the barricade and following it up with a suicide dive that shifted momentum firmly in his favor.
Punk regained control with a diving double axe handle to the injured shoulder, a vertical suplex, and several kicks to the chest. However, the champion tweaked his own knee after landing a jumping calf kick, giving Rhodes an opening.
Sensing weakness, Rhodes relentlessly attacked Punkâs damaged leg with dragon screws, kicks against the ropes, and a painful leg submission that left the champion struggling to stand.
The physical damage became the central story of the match as Rhodes repeatedly targeted the knee while Punk continued punishing the shoulder, leaving both men fighting through obvious pain.
Near falls, submission battles, and a shocking ending
As the match entered its final stages, both superstars produced a series of breathtaking near falls. Punk connected with his signature diving elbow drop, but Rhodes kicked out at two. Rhodes answered with a Cody Cutter, Disaster Kick, and even a Super Cody Cutter, yet the champion somehow survived each attempt.
The submission exchanges added another layer of drama. Rhodes trapped Punk in the Figure Four Leglock, forcing the champion to desperately crawl toward the ropes. Punk later countered by locking in the Anaconda Vice, but Rhodes escaped after reaching the bottom rope.
Momentum continued to swing wildly as Cross Rhodes, Go To Sleep attempts, jackknife pins, and submission counters kept the Minneapolis crowd on edge.
Punk eventually landed a devastating Go To Sleep, but the damage to his knee prevented him from making an immediate cover. Rhodes barely escaped before rolling outside to recover.
The action spilled to the ringside, where Punk attempted a spectacular elbow drop from the top rope through the commentary table. Rhodes moved at the last second, sending the champion crashing through the table and leaving both men exhausted.
Back inside the ring, Rhodes accidentally knocked out the referee during a missed Super Cody Cutter. Punk capitalized with another Go To Sleep, but before an official count could be made, Rhodes responded with Cross Rhodes, sending the champion rolling to ringside.
Just when it appeared Rhodes had victory within reach, Randy Orton made a shocking return to a thunderous ovation. The Viper stunned his former ally with a perfectly timed RKO before immediately leaving the ring.
With the referee recovering, Punk seized the opportunity, lifted Rhodes onto his shoulders, and delivered one final Go To Sleep. This time there was no escape as the referee counted the decisive three-count, allowing CM Punk to retain the Undisputed WWE Championship in unforgettable fashion.
Winner: CM Punk (c) defeated Cody Rhodes to retain the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Who won the CM Punk vs Cody Rhodes match at WWE SummerSlam 2026?
CM Punk defeated Cody Rhodes to retain the Undisputed WWE Championship.
What finishing move ended the match?
CM Punk hit Cody Rhodes with a final Go To Sleep (GTS) after Ortonâs interference to retain the championship.
For more updates, follow Khel Now Wrestling on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram & Whatsapp.
Blesson Daniel is a sub-editor who spends his days organizing words and managing social media, crafting bursts of creativity designed to make people smile. He occasionally dives into writing as well â whether itâs crafting articles, brainstorming ideas, or finding the perfect caption. Believing that every piece of writing offers an opportunity to tell a story, Blesson brings creativity and thoughtfulness to every project he takes on. When heâs not glued to his laptop, Blesson is likely planning his next travel adventure or losing himself in music. A passionate explorer of new places, sounds, and ideas, he believes in balancing work, play, and a good playlist in the background. Whether heâs editing, writing, or daydreaming about his next trip, Blesson is always chasing that sweet spot where creativity and curiosity collide to create something memorable.