CM Punk retains WWE Championship against Johnny Gargano on SmackDown

During the September 4 episode of WWE SmackDown in Cleveland, Ohio, CM Punk successfully defended the Undisputed WWE Championship against Johnny Gargano. The match followed a significant storyline development where Punk offered Gargano the title shot backstage, effectively ending Gargano’s months-long period of being portrayed as motionless and unresponsive. Despite interference from various wrestlers including Sami Zayn, Gunther, Kevin Owens, and Finn Bálor, Punk retained the title.

Sami Zayn, who has been involved in a heated rivalry with Gunther and CM Punk, declared that he would not allow any other competitors to receive title opportunities until he received his rematch. Following his victory, Punk challenged Zayn to a championship match scheduled for the upcoming SmackDown in Mexico City.

Other notable developments included Nia Jax defeating Tiffany Stratton and the announcement of a Women’s Championship match between Chelsea Green and Nia Jax in Mexico. Additionally, Nikki Bella and Paige were set to face each other in Mexico City following a backstage confrontation.