CM Punk is the new Undisputed WWE Champion after Randy Orton's surprise appearance at SummerSlam on Saturday night led to Cody Rhodes losing the title.
Rhodes was in the midst of a championship match against Punk at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis when Orton made his return. As Rhodes was preparing to execute a move from the top rope, Orton entered the ring and delivered an RKO. Punk then capitalized on the interference, hitting Rhodes with a "Go to Sleep" maneuver to score the pinfall and win the championship.
Orton's involvement marks a significant turning point, as he had been inactive since losing to Rhodes at WrestleMania 42. Following that match, Orton had attacked Rhodes, leaving him injured but still the champion. This latest encounter at SummerSlam saw Orton leave with the upper hand once again, delivering a punt to Rhodes' head before exiting the ring, leaving Rhodes defeated and without the title.
Following his victory, Punk began calling out potential challengers from the SmackDown roster. Notably, Gunther, who defeated Nick Aldis earlier in the night, and Trick Williams were mentioned as possible contenders. The search for a No. 1 contender will continue on the second night of SummerSlam, with Sami Zayn facing Finn Balor.
