WWE Considered Different Finish for CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 42

Roman Reigns defeating CM Punk for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 42 Night 2 capped off a main event that ran over 30 minutes and ended with Reigns securing the win using two Spears. However, WWE reportedly also considered a different finish.

According to Dave Meltzer’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE had planned for Reigns to leave the event as champion well in advance. The decision was tied to future long-term storyline plans, including a potential feud with Gunther.

The report noted that an alternate ending had apparently been discussed, in which CM Punk would have retained the title at WrestleMania before dropping it at Backlash. This would be a way for the stars to get “even.” However, WWE ultimately moved forward with Reigns winning the championship at WrestleMania.

“Reigns was always to come out as champion since long-term plans have been made for him in that position, which included a title feud with Gunther. It was possible and apparently talked about that Punk could beat Reigns and then lose the title at Backlash, so they’d be “even” when it was over, but Reigns would end up as champion, as a way to protect Punk’s position. But the decision in the end was for Reigns to win here.”

Following the match, Reigns addressed his upcoming schedule, indicating he would remain active in WWE programming through the summer. He also appeared on WWE RAW after WrestleMania in a segment featuring Jacob Fatu expressing interest in pursuing the championship.

At this stage, no official match between Roman Reigns and Gunther or Jacob Fatu has been announced.

CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 42 was rated 5 stars by @WONF4W. pic.twitter.com/8hEyt6m91E

— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) April 24, 2026