CM Punk Hints at Retirement Ahead of World Title Clash at SummerSlam
CM Punk is preparing for one of the most important matches of his current WWE run, but the veteran star has now revealed that the end of his in-ring career may be closer than fans had expected. In an interview ahead of his World Heavyweight Championship match against Gunther at SummerSlam 2025, Punk acknowledged that he is approaching the final chapter of his storied journey in professional wrestling.
After returning to WWE in dramatic fashion at Survivor Series: WarGames 2023, CM Punk reignited his connection with fans and quickly reestablished himself as a top-tier performer. His comeback was one of the most talked-about events in wrestling history and has since led to rivalries with some of the biggest names on the roster. From high-stakes feuds with Drew McIntyre, Seth Rollins, and Roman Reigns to confrontations with legends like John Cena, Punk has made his presence felt at every level.
Now 46 years old, Punk is entering what could be his final title chase. Speaking recently on ESPN MMA’s Good Guy/Bad Guy program, the former world champion reflected on what a potential victory over Gunther would mean at this point in his life and career. He described the pursuit of gold not just as a professional milestone, but as a personal validation for everything he has endured and contributed since making his return.
At this stage, Punk said, he sees himself closer to the end of the road than the beginning. Winning a world title at this point would be more than just a storyline payoff. It would be a symbol of the work he has done over the last two years and a way to thank those who have supported him along the way. He believes that he has delivered some of the best performances of his career since returning, and capturing a championship now would serve as the ultimate punctuation mark.
The timing of Punk’s revelation is significant. His upcoming match with Gunther is set to headline the first night of SummerSlam 2025 in New Jersey, something he inadvertently confirmed during the same ESPN interview. Punk earned the title opportunity by surviving a grueling five-man Gauntlet Match on RAW, where he defeated a field of top contenders to secure his place in the main event.
The World Heavyweight Championship bout promises to be a clash of two very different legacies. Gunther, known as The Ring General, has built a reputation on discipline, dominance, and an imposing in-ring style. Punk, on the other hand, represents rebellion, resilience, and a deep emotional connection with the WWE universe. Their paths converging on the grand stage of SummerSlam has generated massive anticipation.
While fans are focused on who will walk away with the championship, Punk’s comments have added another layer of urgency to the match. If this truly is the beginning of the end for one of wrestling’s most outspoken and influential figures, Saturday’s contest could carry more weight than any title alone can represent.
Triple H and the current WWE creative team have made it clear that SummerSlam will deliver on big moments. Whether Punk leaves with the belt or not, his journey is once again at the center of the wrestling world, and this chapter could be among his most defining.