The closing moments of WWE RAW intensified the growing tension between CM Punk and Cody Rhodes, with their paths seemingly set to collide at WrestleMania. Following an accidental Helluva Kick from Sami Zayn that left Rhodes down in the ring, the champion gazed upward at both his title and the iconic Winged Eagle Title suspended above the ring.
The atmosphere shifted dramatically when CM Punk made his entrance, expressing concern for Rhodes’ well-being. Drawing from his own experience, Punk acknowledged Rhodes’ aspiration to follow in the footsteps of legendary champions like Bruno Sammartino and John Cena, but warned of the exhausting toll such a pursuit can take.
The conversation grew more intense when Rhodes recalled their prior encounter at the Royal Rumble, prompting Punk to share his vision for the champion’s future. Punk painted a scenario in which Rhodes would continue his grueling schedule as champion, while Punk himself would be preparing to take the title at WrestleMania.
Rhodes responded by reflecting on their shared history, admitting he had spent years chasing Punk’s success, from their early training days to Punk’s rise on the main roster and eventual decade-long absence. However, Rhodes emphasized that the dynamic had now shifted, with Punk being the one playing catch-up.
The segment concluded with Punk delivering a final warning, reminding Rhodes that many who wished for Punk to catch up lived to regret it once he did.
"It feels like this is getting to you. I was a champion for 434 days, and at some point in those days, I started to burn out. I lost friends, and I see that you're doing the same. I get it, you want to be Bruno Sammartino, John Cena. But we're not Superman." – CM Punk… pic.twitter.com/UyCAYZyX5A
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