Backstage Update on CM Punk’s Recent Absence From WWE TV

Where on Earth is CM Punk? As previously reported, Punk’s recent absence from WWE TV and being taken off advertisements for upcoming shows was due to “schedule changes.” False Finish had some more details on the matter about why CM Punk has been absent from WWE programming

According to False Finish’s update, it looks like plans changed for the former World Heavyweight Champion. CM Punk is said to be currently awaiting new creative plans for his return to WWE programming. Additionally, the report notes that Punk’s recent schedule changes and change in creative plans were altered after WWE opted to move Gunther to SmackDown to feud with Cody Rhodes and shift Jacob Fatu to Raw to feud with Roman Reigns.

During Monday Night Raw, it appeared that Punk wasn’t going to be taking a break from TV, as he appeared in a TV confrontation with reigning WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes.

Punk also attended the recent MMA fight between Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano that streamed live on Netflix last weekend.

As @FightfulSelect has mentioned, CM Punk being absent from TV is due to a "schedule change".

Sources tell False Finish that CM Punk is currently awaiting creative to return to WWE TV. Punk's schedule and creative were shifted after WWE made the decision to move Gunther to… pic.twitter.com/NFC3gbDstx

— False Finish (@FalseFinishHQ) May 23, 2026