CM Punk dominates this week’s coverage with his WWE Championship reign and high-profile feud positioning, while AJ Styles’ post-retirement producer role and commentary generate surprising volume. Meanwhile, title matches at NXT Heatwave and main roster contract signings signal the company’s focus on establishing new challengers across brands.
#1. CM Punk
The Undisputed WWE Champion retained against Kevin Owens on SmackDown with a chaotic finish involving Sami Zayn, immediately sparking triple-threat speculation for his next defense. Punk paid tribute to Iyo Sky at a live event and continues to be positioned as the centerpiece of WWE’s main event scene.
π Undisputed WWE Championship
#2. Kevin Owens
Challenged CM Punk for the title in his home country of Canada but suffered a controversial loss, keeping him firmly in the main event picture as a persistent challenger. His involvement in the Punk-Zayn-Owens triangle suggests immediate rematch potential.
#3. Sami Zayn
Inserted himself into the WWE Championship picture by interfering in the Punk-Owens match on SmackDown, positioning himself as a key player in the company’s top storyline. His actions are driving speculation about a triple-threat match, giving him immediate main event credibility.
#4. AJ Styles
Despite retiring from in-ring competition, Styles generated 20+ stories this week discussing his producer work, upcoming NXT Heatwave involvement, and commentary on Ilja Dragunov’s departure. His backstage influence and willingness to speak publicly keep him unusually prominent for a non-active performer.
#5. Roman Reigns
Currently positioned as World Heavyweight Champion and central to mid-card discussions about babyface positioning. Received commentary from both AJ Styles and Montez Ford this week regarding his role in WWE’s hierarchy.
π World Heavyweight Championship
#6. Cody Rhodes
Teamed with CM Punk at a live event in Calgary, reinforcing his top-tier positioning. His presence in high-profile matches keeps him visible despite less direct storyline coverage this particular week.
#7. Penta
Featured in headline matches on both Raw and NXT this week, including an NXT title bout at Heatwave and a Raw main event. His dual-brand prominence signals strong company investment.
#8. Bron Breakker
Signing a contract for a Sunday Night’s Main Event match against Oba Femi keeps him in the upper-card conversation. His NXT positioning as a developing star continues to draw coverage.
#9. Tiffany Stratton
Her recent heel-turn speculation and new pink hair reveal generated multiple stories, suggesting character development and renewed booking focus heading into the fall.
#10. Nikki Bella
Despite backlash over botching Blake Monroe’s name and ongoing feud with Paige that lacks a proper face-to-face encounter, she maintains Hall of Famer visibility and remains part of active storylines.
Chad Gable, the Intercontinental Champion, deserves tracking after retaining his title in a triple-threat at the Edmonton house show against Dominik Mysterio and Ethan Page.
