Drew McIntyre, newly crowned as the Undisputed WWE Champion, recently took a jab at World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk on social media, keeping their rivalry alive even after their major showdown at the Bad Blood Premium Live Event. The exchange has reignited interest among WWE fans as both superstars, key figures in the wrestling world, continue to trade barbs over what it means to be a champion.
Social Media Taunt Continues Longstanding Rivalry
Following his victory, The Scottish Warrior, Drew McIntyre, wasted little time in reigniting friction with The Second City Saint, CM Punk. Their high-profile rivalry, which reached its climax in 2024, remains a talking point among fans and analysts alike. McIntyre underscored his disdain for Punk by referencing online criticism aimed at his adversary. Notably, WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash, who observed Punk’s recent performance on RAW, questioned Punk’s in-ring speed and his choice to wear a T-shirt during matches, sparking much discussion within the wrestling community.
CM Punk appeared to respond to Nash during a house show bout against Bronson Reed. In a subtle move, Punk dramatically removed his T-shirt mid-match, only to reveal another shirt layered underneath, seemingly brushing off the veteran’s remarks. Drawing inspiration from the conversation, McIntyre posted several photos with his title belt following a house show, captioning them with pointed words aimed at Punk.
“No t-shirt needed. This is what a real Champion looks like,”
McIntyre wrote. — Drew McIntyre, Undisputed WWE Champion
Industry Perspectives on McIntyre’s Next Opponent
The aftermath of McIntyre’s title win has also led to speculation regarding his next defense. WWE analyst and RAW Recap co-host Sam Roberts suggested during his Notsam Wrestling EMERGENCY Podcast that McIntyre should step into the ring with SmackDown superstar Ilja Dragunov. Roberts believes this match would be a highlight at the upcoming Royal Rumble event, as Dragunov is viewed as a formidable challenger who could be elevated by such an opportunity, while McIntyre’s championship reign would gain further credibility.
“If it’s me, I mean just like going off pure emotions and feelings, I’m putting Drew McIntyre and Ilja Dragunov together in that title match. I’m making your Rumble title match Drew McIntyre vs. Ilja Dragunov. It’s like, it’s a sick match. It will make Ilja look like a main eventer. It will really good title win for Drew,”
Roberts said. — Sam Roberts, WWE Analyst
Despite Roberts’ enthusiasm, Ilja Dragunov has not been listed among the contenders in the looming eight-man competition on SmackDown. This means that Dragunov will not immediately get his shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship, and the spotlight remains on who will challenge McIntyre next at the Royal Rumble.
The Road Ahead for WWE’s Top Champions
The continued verbal jousting between McIntyre and Punk serves as a reminder of how deeply personal and competitive WWE rivalries can be, especially when legacy and championship pride are on the line. As McIntyre basks in his recent victory and looks ahead to future title defenses, the WWE universe is left to wonder when, or if, he and Punk will cross paths in the ring again. For now, all eyes rest on upcoming events and the anticipation of new challengers hoping to dethrone the Scotsman.
