CM Punk qualifies for Money in the Bank after SmackDown victory

On the September 25, 2026, episode of WWE SmackDown, CM Punk secured a spot in the Men’s Money in the Bank ladder match. Punk won a Triple Threat match against Finn Bálor and Gunther, capitalizing on a chaotic finish where he pinned Gunther following a sequence of moves involving Bálor.

Punk joins a field of participants that includes Bron Breakker, Je’Von Evans, Penta, and Trick Williams, with one spot remaining to be determined. This victory follows Punk’s recent loss of the Undisputed WWE Championship to Sami Zayn.

Prior to the match, SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis attempted to mediate tensions between Punk and Kevin Owens, though Owens reportedly walked out on the meeting after a confrontation with Punk. While Punk’s qualification was a major highlight, some reports have noted uncertainty regarding his specific involvement in the upcoming Money in the Bank event in New Orleans.