January 30th 2024.
Unfortunately, it seems that CM Punk will not be making an appearance at this year's WrestleMania. Due to an injury, the 45-year-old star will not be able to challenge Seth Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship in the main event. It was a hard blow for Punk, real name Phil Brooks, who confirmed the news in an emotional speech during this week's episode of Monday Night Raw.
In his speech, Punk shared his disappointment and disbelief, stating "I've never believed in luck, but I feel a little bit unlucky." He explained that during the Royal Rumble over the weekend, he suffered a torn tricep. Despite his efforts to continue and potentially compete at Elimination Chamber, it was just not possible. Surgery will be necessary for his recovery, and it could take several months before he can return to the ring.
With Punk out of the picture, WWE is now looking for a replacement to challenge Rollins at WrestleMania in Philadelphia. There are several names being considered, and one of them is GUNTHER. The current Intercontinental Champion has already expressed interest in facing Rollins, especially with Rollins currently dealing with his own injury issues. GUNTHER is a strong contender with a built-in rivalry, making him a formidable force in the main event.
Another potential replacement is Cody Rhodes. Although it seemed like he was set to challenge Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Title, Monday night's episode of Raw cast some doubt on that. Rhodes may now have his sights set on Rollins instead, as Rollins made a compelling argument for why Rhodes should choose him as his opponent. This could lead to a very different and unexpected outcome for WrestleMania.
There's also Drew McIntyre, who has been on an incredible run since turning to the dark side in recent months. In a twist of fate, McIntyre has taken responsibility for injuring Punk and even claimed that his prayers were answered with Punk's real-life setback. With his desire for gold and his physical attack on Punk, McIntyre is a strong contender for the main event spot.
Another fan-favorite choice for a replacement is Sami Zayn. Making his return at the Royal Rumble as the number 30 entrant, Zayn has already shown interest in facing McIntyre after he took him out last year. Zayn also came to Punk's defense when McIntyre attacked him on Raw, and even though he narrowly lost to McIntyre in the main event, he would be a popular choice to face Rollins at WrestleMania. This could potentially lead to a Triple Threat match between Zayn, McIntyre, and Rollins for the gold.
As for when WrestleMania 40 will take place, it's set for April 6 and 7 at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The week leading up to it will be filled with events, including a special WrestleMania edition of SmackDown, the 2024 Hall of Fame, and NXT Stand & Deliver. Fans in the UK can watch the event at 1am live on the WWE Network or via TNT Sports Box Office.
It's unfortunate that CM Punk will not be able to compete at WrestleMania, but the show must go on. WWE is already making plans for a replacement, and it will be interesting to see who will ultimately take on Rollins in the main event. And with the recent announcement of a huge deal with Netflix, it seems that this year's WrestleMania will be the last one in this format. It's truly the end of an era for WWE.
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