CM Punk’s World Heavyweight Title is under threat as he prepares to defend it against Finn Balor in Belfast, Ireland on next week’s RAW. The CM Punk World Heavyweight Title storyline features rising tensions, unresolved rivalries, and the possibility of interference, promising a high-stakes matchup on foreign soil.
New Challenger Emerges for CM Punk
Following a decisive victory over Bron Breakker on the first RAW of 2026, CM Punk quickly found himself with a fresh challenger when Finn Balor stepped forward during this week’s broadcast. The impending title bout, officially scheduled for next Monday’s show in Belfast, brings additional tension for Punk as The Judgment Day faction looks for redemption and gold amid a difficult run that saw both Dominik Mysterio and JD McDonagh sidelined by injuries.
Finn Balor insisted on facing Punk in his home country, aiming for redemption and a chance to bring honor back to The Judgment Day. Balor’s determination is fueled by the faction’s recent setbacks and his resolve to reestablish dominance within the red brand. “The Prince” has publicly vowed to lead his group back to glory and sees Punk’s world title as the ultimate prize.
Old Rivalries and Returning Faces Stir Uncertainty
Speculation has intensified over the possible influence of Dominik Mysterio, whose history with CM Punk dates back to 2010, when Punk antagonized the Mysterio family during Aalyah’s birthday celebration. Dominik, now intertwined deeply in WWE storylines, has since claimed that this past incident left a lasting impact. Since Punk’s return to WWE in November 2023, both he and Dominik have exchanged sharp words in interviews, signaling ongoing animosity.
With reports suggesting Dominik’s shoulder injury will not require surgery, the stage is set for a possible surprise comeback in Belfast. “Dirty” Dom’s presence could tilt the balance, potentially aiding Finn Balor in dethroning Punk. The Judgment Day’s campaign to regain its dominance is further underscored by member Mysterio already holding the Intercontinental Championship and Liv Morgan and Roxanne Perez poised for a Women’s Tag Team Championship opportunity at Saturday Night’s Main Event.
Additionally, Raquel Rodriguez continues her relentless quest for the Women’s World Championship. If fortunes turn, The Judgment Day could soon find itself adorned with championship gold across all fronts—possibly beginning with Finn Balor claiming the World Heavyweight Title if aided by Dominik next week.
It’s important to note, however, that these predictions remain speculative, as nothing has been officially confirmed regarding Dominik’s return or potential involvement in the match’s outcome.
CM Punk Responds to Criticism from Kevin Nash
While preparing for this high-profile title defense, CM Punk has also found himself embroiled in another feud, this time with wrestling veteran Kevin Nash. Nash has recently criticized Punk for wrestling in a t-shirt, a critique that Punk addressed in characteristically provocative fashion at a house show, where he removed one t-shirt to reveal another underneath. Fans and commentators speculated that this stunt was aimed directly at Nash, but Punk has clarified his intentions.
“Yeah, and it’s not that deep. That was to pop the guy I was wrestling. Doesn’t go any deeper than that, but, you know, somebody’s always gotta throw their two cents in and, ‘No, no, no, what he was doing was –’ no, no, no. I made dude laugh, and that’s what house shows are for.”
– CM Punk, World Heavyweight Champion
Looking Ahead: Potential Shifts in WWE’s Power Structure
The upcoming World Heavyweight Title match between CM Punk and Finn Balor carries significant implications for the WWE landscape. A victory for Balor—particularly with potential interference from Dominik Mysterio—could set off a dramatic power shift, positioning The Judgment Day as a dominant force across multiple divisions. On the other hand, a successful defense by Punk would reaffirm his status as champion, furthering his momentum since his November 2023 return.
WWE fans in Belfast and worldwide now eagerly await Monday night, as anticipation builds for what could become a defining chapter in the careers of CM Punk, Finn Balor, and the ambitious Judgment Day faction.
