CM Punk offered a lighthearted response to a photo featuring himself alongside several top female WWE Superstars, as anticipation builds for his upcoming title match at WWE SummerSlam 2025. The event is set to take place this weekend at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with Punk preparing for a high-profile championship bout.
Earlier today, Nikki Bella posted a group photo that included Punk, Rhea Ripley, IYO SKY, and Stephanie Vaquer on her social media accounts. Punk later shared the picture on his Instagram story, captioning it simply as “Queens,” underscoring the respect he has for the women wrestlers involved.
Path to SummerSlam: CM Punk’s quest for the World Heavyweight title
Known as the Second City Saint, Punk recently secured his place in the World Heavyweight Championship match by winning a Gauntlet match earlier this month. His opponent at SummerSlam is Gunther, the reigning champion who reclaimed the title on the June 9 episode of RAW after losing it to Jey Uso at WrestleMania 41.
Prior to this, Punk challenged John Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championships at Night of Champions 2025 but was unsuccessful. Meanwhile, Cody Rhodes earned a shot at Cena’s title by winning the King of the Ring Tournament, setting up another key contest at SummerSlam 2025.
Bill Apter responds to Matt Riddle’s criticism of CM Punk
Veteran wrestling journalist Bill Apter addressed recent remarks made by former WWE star Matt Riddle, who described CM Punk as difficult to work with. Speaking on Sportskeeda’s The Wrestling Time Machine podcast, Apter suggested that Punk has changed significantly over time.
Apter acknowledged Riddle’s right to his opinion but expressed a different view based on his backstage experiences.
“Matt, what are you smoking? […] My feeling is, I have been backstage where CM Punk is, everybody is hugging him and high-fiving him. It’s not the same Punk that was so pissed off and angry such a long time ago. It’s a different guy. Matt and he probably had a lot of problems with each other, and if Matt wants to say that, that’s his opinion, but I don’t share it.” —Bill Apter, wrestling journalist
Implications for SummerSlam 2025 and what lies ahead
As CM Punk prepares to face Gunther at SummerSlam, the match carries significant weight for both competitors. Punk’s recent victory in the Gauntlet provides momentum, but Gunther remains a formidable champion with a proven track record. The event promises to be a pivotal moment in the ongoing WWE title scene.
The outcomes of these contests, including Cody Rhodes’ challenge against John Cena, will shape WWE’s championship landscape in the coming months, keeping fans eagerly watching for shifts in dominance and new rivalries.
