On the heels of John Cena’s shocking “reverse pipebomb” during Friday’s SmackDown in Grand Rapids, WWE fans tuned in to RAW with anticipation for a dramatic CM Punk response. However, the much-anticipated moment involving CM Punk response to John Cena was left hanging, as neither superstar appeared, leaving viewers with more questions than answers.
Anticipation Builds After SmackDown Showdown
Friday night saw “Heel” John Cena headline at Van Andel Arena, where he faced Ron Killings in a heated contest. The bout ended in disqualification when the Undisputed WWE Champion, Cena, struck Killings, previously known as R-Truth, with the championship belt. The night quickly escalated when CM Punk stormed the ring, launching a fierce attack on Cena, intensifying their longstanding rivalry in the lead-up to Night of Champions.
Their clash reached a boiling point as Punk and Cena brawled, culminating in Cena delivering an Attitude Adjustment that sent Punk crashing through a table. Enthusiastic reactions filled the arena, with chants shifting from “CM Punk!” to “Cena!” as Cena, with a signature grin, perched atop the turnbuckle and delivered a viral “reverse pipebomb” segment that shocked and divided WWE fans.
RAW Lineup Lacks Punk and Cena Appearance
Despite widespread speculation and eagerness for a follow-up confrontation, WWE’s official channels did not advertise John Cena or CM Punk for RAW in Grand Rapids, MI. Creative sources reportedly confirmed that Punk was not included in the script for the episode, and, as of this afternoon, there were
“no plans for Punk to be featured tonight,”
with industry insiders reinforcing the absence of both superstars from the card.
This programming decision left the WWE Universe—especially those hoping for a fiery CM Punk response to John Cena—waiting. The lack of an advertised segment or match featuring either man means fans and analysts must look to later events for the next chapter in this high-profile rivalry.
Upcoming Events and Other Featured Matches
The final RAW before the contentious Night of Champions Premium Live Event took a different direction, focusing on other marquee matchups. On tonight’s card, Roxanne Perez faces Jade Cargill in the Queen of the Ring semi-finals, while Jey Uso goes head-to-head with Cody Rhodes in the King of the Ring semi-finals. Additionally, Seth Rollins is scheduled to speak, and matches including Penta versus Bron Breakker and Becky Lynch defending the Women’s Intercontinental Championship against Bayley add to the excitement. Other segments include a Bill Goldberg interview and the return of RAW General Manager Adam Pearce, who is set to address undisclosed business.
Looking Toward Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia
As the storyline continues to unfold, Friday’s SmackDown will be broadcast live from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. While promotional material features John Cena, CM Punk’s participation remains uncertain. However, with all hands expected on deck ahead of Night of Champions and Punk’s status as an ROH Hall of Famer, the potential for a live, in-person confrontation mere hours before his anticipated final match with Cena remains a very real possibility.
The unresolved tension from RAW has only added to the buzz and speculation, making the build to Night of Champions one of the most dramatic in memory. For now, the WWE Universe and the wrestling world await CM Punk’s response to John Cena’s explosive reverse pipebomb, setting the table for what could become a historic showdown.
