On the latest episode of SmackDown, John Cena left CM Punk reeling in the ring after a brutal attack and unleashed his own explosive version of the infamous “pipebomb.” This intense moment has set the stage for a heated rivalry, as fans now speculate on how CM Punk can get revenge on John Cena at the upcoming 2025 Night of Champions event, just days away.
With Night of Champions quickly approaching, anticipation is at a fever pitch. As the Second City Saint was left humiliated before the WWE Universe, the search for retaliation and retribution is underway, and Punk has more than one opportunity to make his mark before the final showdown in Saudi Arabia.
Opportunities for Revenge on the Road to Night of Champions
John Cena has given himself a powerful advantage ahead of Night of Champions by cementing his position at the top, but CM Punk is known for his resilience and cunning. Two major WWE shows—RAW and SmackDown—remain before the premium live event on June 28, 2025. These represent key moments where Punk can physically and verbally disrupt Cena’s dominance inside and outside the ring.
Punk, former three-time World Heavyweight Champion, excels at verbal warfare. He could seize this chance to fight back against Cena for mocking the career-defining promo that once propelled him to fame. Such confrontations not only serve as personal payback but are sure to intensify the build-up to their eventual clash at Night of Champions.
Cena Mocks Punk’s Legacy, Fueling Rivalry
Cena targeted Punk’s iconic 2011 pipebomb during his promo, reviving old wounds. While Punk’s relationship with WWE suffered because of his original outburst, Cena’s latest comments have positioned him as the center of attention once again. The Franchise Player stands where he did over a decade ago—respected, booed, and still holding the WWE Title.
This renewed rivalry could push Punk toward fighting dirtier than ever. Since returning to WWE in November 2023, this is Punk’s first chance at championship gold. That desperation, combined with his knowledge of Cena’s own willingness to bend the rules, may lead to an unpredictable battle in Saudi Arabia.
The Stakes: Pride, Legacy, and the Undisputed WWE Title
Cena’s future in wrestling hangs in the balance, with only sixteen more matches left before retirement. The 17-time world champion has threatened to take the Undisputed WWE Championship into retirement and, in his words, “ruin pro wrestling forever.” This declaration has further fueled CM Punk’s drive to thwart Cena and change the course of WWE history.
If the Second City Saint manages to win the title and shatter Cena’s plans, he will not only undermine Cena’s threats but also strip The Last Real Champion of his most prized achievement. This victory would force Cena to engage with a WWE Universe he no longer controls, potentially facing overwhelming negativity without the title to shield him.
What Comes Next in the Punk-Cena Saga?
The outcome of Night of Champions could reshape both men’s legacies and the future of WWE itself. With so much at stake, including Cena’s retirement promises and Punk’s quest for vindication, the tension between these iconic rivals continues to escalate. The Chicago native and The Franchise Player look set to deliver a final confrontation that could alter the WWE landscape for years to come. Fans now await to see if CM Punk’s quest for revenge will be realized or if Cena’s reign will endure.
