Cody Rhodes’ Potential Heel Turn Ahead of CM Punk SummerSlam Clash

Cody Rhodes is slated to face CM Punk for the Undisputed WWE Championship at SummerSlam, a two‑night event on August 1‑2, 2026 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. A go‑home SmackDown will have the rivals meet face‑to‑face the night before the pay‑per‑view. Speculation has intensified that Rhodes may turn heel before or during the match. WWE Hall‑of‑Famer Mark Henry said Rhodes “has been a heel for the last six months” and should continue that direction. Multiple reports, citing Self Made Pro, state that any decision on a heel turn rests entirely with Rhodes himself. The same outlet notes that CM Punk originally envisioned himself as the heel in the feud, but his popularity now makes that unlikely. Fans and commentators continue to debate the possible character shift as the headline bout approaches.