Before the Monday night episode of WWE RAW began airing, a viral clip emerged showing CM Punk sharing a brief kiss with fellow WWE Superstar Jey Uso. This moment quickly spread across social media, sparking widespread discussion ahead of SummerSlam. The footage was captured at the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, where the taping took place.
The episode started with a heartfelt tribute to wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, who passed away suddenly on July 24 due to cardiac arrest. The tribute included a ten-bell salute and was attended by Hogan’s family and close friends, including his son Nick, wife Tana Lea, former WCW President Eric Bischoff, and comedian Gabriel Iglesias.
CM Punk was seen standing prominently alongside Jey Uso and WWE executive Bruce Prichard during the tribute, a presence that surprised viewers given Punk’s past critical remarks about Hogan. The moment before the show went live captured Punk warmly kissing Jey Uso on the head, a gesture that delighted fans and added an unexpected emotional note to the evening.
Build-Up to SummerSlam: CM Punk Challenges Gunther in RAW Confrontation
In the weeks leading to SummerSlam on August 2 in New Jersey, the intensity between CM Punk and World Heavyweight Champion Gunther escalated. Gunther previously left Punk speechless during an encounter on RAW, but this week’s episode saw Punk retaliating verbally, determined to reclaim the World Heavyweight title.
The confrontation took place in Detroit, with Punk emphasizing his drive and connection to the city by referencing the 12 Stanley Cup trophies of the Detroit Red Wings. His words underscored his hunger to regain the championship and overshadow Gunther’s dominance.
“I need to be World Champion like I need air in my lungs. If you compare your careers to mine, this isn’t apples to apples. There are levels to this, kid, & you’re gonna find that you’re not on my level.” – CM Punk
Punk’s declaration was met with attempts from Gunther, known as The Ring General, to silence him, but Punk remained resolute. He ended the exchange by stating how overwhelming it will be for Gunther to compete against him inside the ring, heightening anticipation for their encounter at SummerSlam.
Tribute and Rivalry Highlight the Emotional Stakes on WWE RAW
The tribute to Hulk Hogan brought a somber and respectful atmosphere to RAW, a stark contrast to the fiery rivalry unfolding between CM Punk and Gunther. Punk’s unexpected display of camaraderie with Jey Uso followed by his fierce challenge to the World Heavyweight Champion painted a picture of mixed emotions, balancing respect with personal ambition.
This combination of heartfelt moments and rising tension sets the stage for what many expect to be a significant clash at SummerSlam, where CM Punk aims to reclaim his status at the top of WWE. Fans and insiders alike await the outcome, knowing that the history and personal dynamics involved add layers of complexity to the upcoming match.
