WWE plans for SummerSlam 2026 feature Cody Rhodes vs. CM Punk and possible Brock Lesnar challenge

During recent SmackDown tapings, Cody Rhodes defeated Jey Uso to become the #1 contender for the Undisputed WWE Championship held by Sami Zayn. According to Wrestling Observer Radio, the original plan was for Rhodes to face CM Punk at SummerSlam 2026, though Zayn’s recent title win could alter that matchup. Meltzer also noted that Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins and Brock Lesnar vs. Oba Femi were officially announced for the same event, and Punk is rumored to return on RAW in Chicago.

Fan speculation has focused on Zayn’s brief reign, with theories that Brock Lesnar will challenge him on the July 18 edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event from Madison Square Garden, or that a rubber‑match with Oba Femi could be set for SummerSlam. The two‑night spectacle is scheduled for August 1‑2, 2026 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota.