As previously reported, top WWE star CM Punk's recent absence from WWE programming and removal from advertisements for upcoming shows was attributed to "schedule changes."
According to False Finish, it appears that plans have changed for the former World Heavyweight Champion, as sources indicate Punk is currently awaiting new creative direction for his return to WWE programming. The report also mentioned that these recent schedule changes and alterations in creative plans occurred after the company decided to move "The Ring General," GUNTHER, to SmackDown to feud with Undisputed WWE Champion "The American Nightmare," Cody Rhodes, while "The Samoan Werewolf," Jacob Fatu, shifts to RAW to feud with World Heavyweight Champion "The OTC," Roman Reigns.
During a recent episode of Monday Night RAW, it seemed that Punk would not be taking a break from WWE programming, as he appeared in a televised confrontation with reigning Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes.
Additionally, Punk attended the recent MMA fight between Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano that streamed live on Netflix last weekend.
As @FightfulSelect has mentioned, CM Punk being absent from TV is due to a "schedule change".
Sources tell False Finish that CM Punk is currently awaiting creative to return to WWE TV. Punk's schedule and creative were shifted after WWE made the decision to move Gunther to… pic.twitter.com/NFC3gbDstx— False Finish (@FalseFinishHQ) May 23, 2026
