Roman Reigns, CM Punk, and Gunther are all scheduled to appear on the July 17 edition of WWE Raw as part of the build-up to SummerSlam. This appearance comes after Reigns’ dramatic return to Raw on July 14, where he was set to team with Jey Uso against Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker at SummerSlam, continuing his storyline focused on seeking retribution against Paul Heyman and his alliance with Seth Rollins.
SummerSlam Matches and Rivalries Taking Shape
The SummerSlam event will feature CM Punk challenging Gunther for the World Heavyweight Championship, following Punk’s advancement through a Gauntlet Match. Gunther arrives at SummerSlam fresh off a major win where he retired wrestling legend Goldberg during Saturday Night’s Main Event. Meanwhile, Roman Reigns’ storyline with Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker intensifies, with his tag team match alongside Jey Uso generating much anticipation.
Raw’s Card Features Multiple High-Profile Contests and Appearances
General Manager Adam Pearce revealed on his weekly Sunday social media update that the upcoming Raw show will spotlight these key stars along with several important matches and segments. Pearce confirmed the appearances of the World Heavyweight Champion Gunther, CM Punk, and “the OTC,” Roman Reigns.
“You will see the World Heavyweight Champion, Gunther. You will see the best in the world, CM Punk. You will see the OTC, Roman Reigns.” —Adam Pearce, WWE General Manager
In addition to these appearances, Pearce announced Cruz Del Toro and Joaquin Wilde, recently named number one contenders, will challenge Finn Balor and JD McDonagh for the World Tag Team Championship. The show will also feature a prominent eight-woman tag team match with Rhea Ripley teaming up with <a href="https://cynicaltimes.org/category/wrestling-news/wwe/”>WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella, Stephanie Vaquer, and Iyo Sky against Naomi, Chelsea Green, Alba Fyre, and Piper Niven.
Detailed Listing of Raw Events Ahead of SummerSlam
The updated schedule for the Raw show includes:
- Roman Reigns’ appearance
- CM Punk’s appearance
- World Heavyweight Champion Gunther’s appearance
- An eight-woman tag team match: Rhea Ripley, Nikki Bella, Stephanie Vaquer, and Iyo Sky vs. Naomi, Chelsea Green, Alba Fyre, and Piper Niven
- Jey Uso vs. Bronson Reed
- World Tag Team Championship match: Finn Balor & JD McDonagh (champions) vs. Cruz Del Toro & Joaquin Wilde
Additional WWE News and Updates Surrounding SummerSlam Weekend
Beyond Raw, WWE has paid tribute to Hulk Hogan on the recent SmackDown episode following the passing of the wrestling icon at age 71. Fans also witnessed the return of Rey Mysterio, who had been sidelined by injury since April 2025. Meanwhile, WWE has announced new additions to the SummerSlam event card, including a fresh grudge match, enhancing the weekend’s excitement.
In backstage developments, D-Von Dudley, part of the legendary Dudley Boyz, explained his motivation for participating in one more match before retiring. In other news, a veteran wrestler shared insights about a famously tough Goldberg match, calling it
“one of the most brutal things I’ve ever seen.”
Significance of These Announcements and What to Expect Next
The confirmed appearances of top stars Roman Reigns, CM Punk, and Gunther on WWE Raw signal a major promotional push toward SummerSlam, increasing anticipation for the headline matches. These developments highlight WWE’s efforts to build compelling storylines and deliver high-profile contests to its audience. Fans can expect intense rivalries and championship clashes to unfold on Raw and carry through to SummerSlam’s large-scale event.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did CM Punk apologize?
A. CM Punk said sorry to fans in Saudi Arabia for his tweet before WWE Night of Champions. When he showed up at the kickoff show, fans booed him. A fan shouted something, and Punk stopped to reply, using the chance to talk about his earlier tweet about The Miz.
Q. Is CM Punk a millionaire?
A. Outside of wrestling, he has accumulated a net worth of $12 million, owns expensive homes, and supports charitable causes. He enjoys a private life with his wife, AJ Lee. In 2023, CM Punk encountered a significant challenge in his career. A backstage altercation in AEW resulted in his suspension and eventual contract termination.
Q. Was CM Punk actually hurt?
A. While Punk’s fall looked concerning, it was part of the show. However, McIntyre truly got hurt and needed 16 stitches.
Q. Why doesn’t CM Punk talk to his brother?
A. CM Punk’s sibling, Mike Broox, mentions taking money from the Lunatic Wrestling Federation, which caused their relationship to break over two decades ago.
