What does CM Punk do after he loses the WWE Championship?

[Radical]

I know there is a thread about "What happens to Heyman after Punk?" but I think an equally fair question is: What happens to CM Punk after he loses the WWE Championship?

By most speculation and logic CM Punk will lose the WWE title between Royal Rumble and WrestleMania... and even, if by chance, he holds on to it past WrestleMania he likely won't hold onto it much longer after that ...

So what does he do after? His heel persona is HEAVILY anchored in him having and holding the WWE Championship for so long.

Once he loses it I guess it'd be obvious for him to go after the guy who took it from him to win it back. But does winning it back really make much sense? If he wins it back after such a long run ... his win streak is stopped anyway and there's no way he's going for another 400+ day run with is 2nd title reign. He's also unlikely to win it over and over and over again like Cena to try and get that "Most WWE title wins ever" crown. So what's left for him?

I think what's left for him would be to build to a match vs The Undertaker at WrestleMania 30 ... unless it happens THIS upcoming WrestleMania. In that case, I think CM Punk's days in the WWE are limited ... probably by his own choice.

Once Punk finishes his title run and Main Events WrestleMania and faces The Undertaker there isn't much more for him to do in the WWE that'll be very interesting. I'm sure he doesn't want to be like Cena and milk the same character for years.

Only thing I can think is that he will try to gain some sort of 'control' in WWE maybe like aligning himself with Heyman still and create a faction of "Heyman Guys" basically a new, fresh version of NWO (without too much obvious overlap) and keep adding to that faction as they create even a separate 'brand' and CM Punk can give himself a Championship because he thinks he is powerful and important enough that his Championship is the highest honor in wrestling.

I guess I'm just spit-balling here but that's my thoughts. What do you think?

 

[NotoriousMEAT]

I've been wondering the same thing for a while now. To be honest I have no clear answer or idea either. I imagine him getting 2 or 3 more big PPV matches (Undertaker, Stone Cold, etc), then probably calling it career. Punk's made it clear he won't be wrestling forever, and I'm not sure where he could go once this epic rise plateaus, then eventually heads down hill.

 

[fenderjapan]

The nice thing about the 400 day run is that even after he loses it he can still toot his horn as the last guy in however many years to do it. And any champ who wins the belt he can hold that over until they do it.

CM Punk is 34 so he probably has a few more years on the main event scene but he is not a spring chicken either. I would say next is to put him against all of the stars he hasnt faced yet. Maybe he'll develop into a cult leader type character although I think that would more benefit the members of the cult than punk himself.

 

[theBusiness]

CM Punk is a very smart person. I believe he basically confirmed through a tweet that he is looking to retire in 2015. What surprised me is how surprised everyone else was at that. First of all, CM Punk has been wrestling since 2000 and secondly, you don't need a long career to be a legend (which I believe Punk is already). Stone Cold & Rock's prime lasted what, 4-5 years? In Stone Cold's case, he was forced to retire and in Rock's case, he reached his prime at a very young age and found better opportunities. I'm sure we can all agree Punk's "Prime" began in Summer 2011, which would have his reign at the top be about as long as Rock or Austin's was.

In my eyes, there are two things Punk needs to achieve before he retires and I'm fairly certain he feels the same way. The first thing is to main event a WrestleMania, which could and SHOULD happen this year (if Rock-Cena II takes place and goes on last, what a damn disgrace). The second thing he needs to do is have a feud with Stone Cold Steve Austin. I'm pretty sure this is going to happen one day eventually, probably next years WrestleMania or if Vince has been keeping this very downlow, call me crazy but maybe this year.

As to the question "what is next after he loses the title," I can honestly see Punk taking a few months off to recover and repackage himself somewhat. He make his return in the summertime where he is known to be at his best, just in time for SummerSlam. He would obviously get back into the title picture and win the belt again. He keeps the belt (or loses it shortly before) until WrestleMania 30 where *fingers crossed* the dream match takes place against Austin. After that, he would only have a years time until his retirement. I can see him coming out the night after WM30 and announcing it would be his last year and he promises "to wreak havoc and make sure he leaves his mark on the business and establishes himself as the greatest WWE superstar of all time with pipe bomb after pipe bomb, etc. Classic CM Punk style. It saddens me to even think about his retirement because he has confirmed himself as a legend in my eyes in the past year and a half, especially since his most recent heel turn. For everyone who's been bitching about having another Stone Cold/Rock since they retired or bringing back aspects of the Attitude Era, this man has done exactly that.

 

[thebarber]

After the obvious rematches etc, I think a switch to Smackdown and another fued with Randy Orton would be great, thus time with Punk displaying the same venom in his promos he has had with Cena and Rock.

 

[ztwhite]

With so much up in the air regarding when he'll drop the strap, or IF he'll drop the strap, it's hard to pinpoint what's next for CM Punk.

One thing that's interesting to take note of, the WWE released their 2013 PPV locations the other day, and on 06/16/2013, there's a PPV here in Chicago (even though it's unnamed, right now).

I have to imagine that the WWE could use this to their advantage and rehash the "I'm taking my ball and going home !" routine. But, this time he'd likely lose and take some time off. The dude has been going steady for quite some time, so I would imagine he'd like to have a few months to rest and recover.

 

[Mustang Sally]

A lot depends on what type of deal he actually cut for himself in the Summer of Punk. This is something I've always wondered about in pro wrestling: when they negotiate their contracts and are important enough performers that they're granted some input into their own creative directions, what do they ask for?

Money, certainly. Billing, probably. A career plan, to whatever extent they can.

But do they demand title runs and negotiate them into contracts? Did the Rock tell WWE he'd come back this time only if they gave him a brief (very brief) championship reign? Seems ridiculous, doesn't it? Seems as if that would be of zero importance to him, no? But, could it be true?

Then, we have Punk. Was the fact he's had such a long run as champion actually negotiated as part of the contract he wound up signing even as he "was almost out the door?" Along with the ability to speak out and receive top billing at just about every PPV in which he performs, was this title run something he had insisted on? Do pro wrestlers care about that?

We've read that this was so with Hulk Hogan; that even after WCW folded and he was coming back to WWE only for occasional appearances, he wanted to win his matches and be the big conquering hero no matter whom he was facing. Yes, it took a hell of a lot of nerve to demand that but, after all, this is Hogan.

If any of this theory is true, a loss of title by Punk would probably result in his winning it back after a short interlude. Since these matters are determined by people in boardrooms rather than legitimate ring competition, it's certainly possible all this was determined 1 1/2 years ago. Not the specifics, just the general idea.

My guess? When Punk loses the title, I think he'll lead another faction, perhaps even the Shield. He's always been good in the role of "leader of men" and could stir up a lot of trouble as an ex-champion with some rough people behind him. He wouldn't need to wear the belt in this situation, although a few more title runs would probably be in order, anyway.

It's been hard to believe Punk's contention that he has nothing to do with the Shield, since just about everything they've done has been of great benefit to him. So, that's what I think: he loses the title and winds up being their leader.

And you can throw in Brad Maddox as one of his subjects, too.

 

[BenChillin]

I think it's terrible that The Rock already announced he's main eventing Wrestlemania in that one interview. We just know it's not Punk. Seriously... that's all dude has left to do.

We need Stone Cold Vs CM Punk at WM 30 in a classic match.

 

[Just Do It]

I think it's terrible that The Rock already announced he's main eventing Wrestlemania in that one interview. We just know it's not Punk. Seriously... that's all dude has left to do.

Well, did you expect Rock to be opening the show against Primo? Jesus. Anyway, nothing is to say Punk wont be in the main event. Maybe he will. Maybe he wont.

Either way, dude will make more money that night than I do in a decade, so my heart hardly goes out to him.

 

[LascoX]

I can see Punk doing the rematches for the title and possibly another title run immediatly after dropping the belt. After that like many have said taking time off to heal for a bit. Punk is good at reinventing himself so he could go multiple directions on a return. Obviously a face turn could easily be in the works on a return where Punk humbles himself to the WWE universe followed by another heal turn with an "I told you fools all along" type angle. Baring injuries I can see Punk wrestling past 2015 if he wants as his style , while extreemly physical is not overly crazy. Whatever he does , I am sure it will be entertaining and relevant to whatever is going on in WWE programing at the time.

 

[CrucifiedRaven]

He needs one big Mania match either this year or next year. I (like most) am really hoping for a Punk v Austin match at WrestleMania 30. For the title or not. But one big match for CM Punk that goes on last to close the show. Also it looks like he's destined for a Mania match with Undertaker at some point as well.

He'll win the title back at some point, but there will probably be a prolonged period of 8-12 months without it. I'd like to see how his heel character evolves without the title. I can see him getting much more aggressive and having a couple of intense, big time feuds. I don't know who with, there's not a whole lot of guys on the roster for him... But he needs some clean wins. Even as a heel. He needs to re-establish himself as dangerous in the ring, as well as on the mic. Maybe win a Royal Rumble before being built back up for a big time Mania match.

 

[FarFromFine]

The biggest thing he needs to do is take some extended time off. Rest, heal, and come back strong. Not necessarily because of injuries but to avoid having to drop from upper card to mid card. If he takes 3-6 months off he can let a couple of other feuds come and go and then jump right back in himself. The last thing that should happen is Punk in the midcard. He's too big for the IC or US titles. He could tag with Bryan and it'd be fun to watch but he belongs in the main event/title picture (now that being in the main event and being in the title match are different things)

 

[WallsofZakku]

Well, off the top of my head he needs to win the royal rumble, win the u.s. championship, main event wrestlemania, face Undertaker at Wrestlemania, face SCSA at Wrestlemania. But as for when he drops the title i say after the championship rematch have him drafted to smackdown in the draft. Or he could even keep the wwe title and get drafted to smackdown and vice versa for the WHC getting drafted to RAW. New landscape and opponents for both titles this year.

 

[#MrScissorsKick]

Not a fan of punk but not a hater by any means. I don't think this has been said but punk is outstanding on the mic and id hate to see such high talents like his go unused but what if punk goes to become a tv announcer? He's done it before and he's already proven he is more than capable but what would you do with JR, Lawler, JBL, and cole? Another possibility is maybe make punk the GM of RAW. Forget Vickie, punk owns raw. We know what he can do in the ring and we know what he can do on the mic but imagine punk with the power he would get as GM. Wow. Perfect role.

Just my thoughts.

 

[Kodo Sawaki]

What does CM Punk do after he loses the WWE Championship?

Same thing any other maineventer does: Trying to retrieve title, fail because of something, move on some different non-title feud and eventually maybe get back into title feud again.

 

[Pedigree1]

What can you say about Punk? The man has done it all in the business like it or not when he said his year plus long reign equals sammartinos he is absolutely correct. I have often wondered what Mustang Sally alluded too also. What do the performers ask for in their contracts?

Money no shit they dont. PPV shares hell yah if there a big enough draw merch sales yup. But title reigns? Maybe maybe not. Punk says it week in and week out how long hes held the title for. He fucking should be proud of that absolutely be proud of that especially in todays era.

As far as what he does when he drops the title? I am fucking shocked that man has not main evented a WM ever. I am not one for conspiracy's but really he has the most important title in the companys history and you dont main event him. Seriously what the fuck is wrong with having Rock V Cena second to Punks match at last years WM?

But definitely he needs to main event a WM if it doesnt happen this year it wont happen ever IMO! When he does drop the title really no one can guess whats he is gonna do? I think take time off regroup and heal up. Return around summerslam time and regain his title shortly there after. Or he could just up and quit! Retire saying he has nothing more to prove which really he doesnt.

But i also see him leading the shield being there leader and assembling a new group of Heymans Guys. He marches to the beat of his own drummer its just so hard to determine what he is gonna do?

My guess he will take time off and come back and lead another faction! But the idea of up and quitting while on top(always leave them wanting more i say)is not out of the realm

 

[Headman]

He can start going around claiming to be "2nd best in the world!". Or he can simply move on to the next storyline. I don't think Punk's character is dependent on being WWE champion. People talk about guys like Cena and Orton "Not needing the belt anymore". Well if Punk is on their level he shouldn't need it either.

 

[I_Like_All_Wrestling]

I don't want to spoil it if people haven't read it (though I'm assuming everyone here has, but the rumored Punk vs. match for Wrestlemania is a perfect followup. If that's what happens then everything in between will just be filler. I'm not even sure who he would fit in against. Ryback? The Miz? Del Rio? Kane of Bryan? It's gotta be a face (or face-ish) guy right?

 

[lowandmighty]

I think the idea of having him face the Undertaker is a great one, he could lose the title to The Rock but go on to face the undertaker at Wrestlemania having been the longest reigning champion in all of Undertakers days. It would be a great threat to the Undertakers "coming of age" year for his streak if he is to continue wrestling that is. Or is his streak already 21? I've lost track seriously and can't be screwed to look it up.
21 should be just too good to be true for the ageing creepy giant and I think its time for the Undertaker to lose and return to the grave quite frankly.

I'm sure CM Punk could exist in wwe having random feuds with good wrestlers until the Royal Rumble next year where he could win it and then win the belt back at wrestlemania next year leaving a long enough gap for his recapturing of the title to be fresh and then more genius comedy segments with heel cm punk champion.

 

[GoochOwnsYou]

Punk will possibly get one rematch at Elimination Chamber or lose to Cena for the right to fight the Rock at Wrestlemania.

Then he will have his Wrestlemania, his character will be really bitter (more so) since losing the title. Unsure of who his Wrestlemania feud will be but chances are creative will drop the ball and Punk will turn it around.

After Cena wins the title at Wrestlemania chances are Punk will be the first guy to feud with. After that? A few feuds, maybe the fans will cheer his heel persona more and he goes back to being an anti-hero

 

[theBusiness]

I really don't think Rock-Cena main events this year. I honestly think WWE is going to throw a total curveball at us. I'm predicting a triple threat with Rock, Cena, and Punk. I just prefer to think that Vince/HHH aren't that stupid to leave Punk out of the main event when he's on absolute fire. How about the triple threat match this year (2013), Stone Cold dream match next year (2014), and he retires to the Undertaker in his rumored retirement year (2015). Sounds perfect to me.

 

[King Patrick Star]

I think, after finally losing the WWE Championship, CM Punk should lead the “Revolution” against these returning Legends. In order to keep the focus on the WWE Title, the World Title, the Future Stars and the Undertaker match, I say make the WrestleMania Main Event a 4 – on – 4 Tag Team match.

The Rock, Triple H, Undertaker and Brock Lesnar vs. John Cena, Randy Orton, CM Punk and Sheamus.

Let’s see the how many storylines are in this one match.

Undertaker’s WM Streak is on the line in a new match type. This time he has to depend on 3 others to keep the streak alive.

Will Paul Heyman side with Brock Lesnar or CM Punk??

Can the Legends of WWE’s past work together, considering the history the Legends have had with each other??
Rock vs. Triple H.
Rock vs. Undertaker.
Rock vs. Brock Lesnar.
Triple H vs. Undertaker.
Triple H vs. Brock Lesnar.
Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar.

Can the SuperStars of WWE’s present work together, considering the history the SuperStars have had with each other??
John Cena vs. Randy Orton.
John Cena vs. CM Punk.
John Cena vs. Sheamus.
Randy Orton vs. CM Punk.
Randy Orton vs. Sheamus.
CM Punk vs. Sheamus.

This frees up the World Titles if, let’s say, Dolph Ziggler vs. Alberto Del Rio for the World Title is scheduled.

For the WWE Title, I’d have CM Punk (or the Rock), drop it in the Elimination Chamber against Ryback, who should last eliminate Big E. Langston, setting up their Mania Main Event.

 

[InsomniaMusic]

I could see CM Punk doing allot in the back front office work.

Before he leaves I hope he does well to put over other guys
After he looses the belt he could simply do the Heyman guys thing with the Shield and Maddox.

Plus there’s still allot guys he can have some great matches

 

[It's...Baylariat!]

In the immediate future, I'd like to see two things...

1) A match with Stone Cold Steve Austin. It could happen. Austin's health is reasonable and he could do a great match with Punk. The heat's already there between the two. Austin's the total opposite of Punk as far as lifestyle is concerned and it would make for a helluva buyrate for whichever event they use the feud for. Hopefully, it'll be for Wrestlemania.

2) A match with the Undertaker. This could come further down the road, but if anyone is egotistical enough to end the streak, it'll be Punk. Thing is, would Taker put him over? Even if Taker didn't do the job, it would make for great TV for the buildup. Punk would make you believe he'd beat Taker at Wrestlemania and Taker would look just vulnerable enough to sell it.

Punk's not done by a long-shot. He'll have a few more reigns with the WWE and WHC titles and feud with more superstars before he's done. Just because he may lose the title in the future doesn't mean he's put out to pasture.

 

[The Life Of Pablo Ren]

Punk is in a fantastic place because, he could really go in any direction he pleases... he's very versatile... but what I honestly see is Punk having a similar year to the one that John Cena had in 2012.

As much as I hate to say it... I believe that Punk will drop the title to The Rock at the Rumble and if not, definitely at Elimination Chamber. From there he could enter a very high profile match at 'Mania (either against Undertaker, or still be apart of the WWE Championship Picture), but no matter which he chooses to go... and again I regret to say it, he ends up on the losing end. And that's where it gets a bit cloudy, I can see him entering a random, sporadic feud that lasts a PPV or two, maybe it'll finally be revealed somehow that he is indeed behind The Shield and Brad Maddox, so with the cat out of the bag, they basically all just say screw it and form one big stable. I still don't know who he goes up against though, I assume the WWE Championship picture would be between Cena, Ryback, perhaps an X Factor, someone like Wade Barrett or another up and coming heel and Punk to an extend. He will still be the top-heel in the company, but after WrestleMania I don't see him having that much of a high-profiled year, unless The Undertaker decides to stay past WrestleMania but the chances of that happening are slim to none. He could start maybe putting over some of the faces like Miz or someone along those lines. The bottom line however is, I don't see Punk regaining the Championship in 2013 unless it happens towards the end of the year.

Just a note though: Just because I don't think he'll get the strap back doesn't mean I don't think he'll be involved in the picture. I fully expect him to get at least four opportunities between the Rumble and the end of the year to regain the Championship, as people have already said, the June PPV takes place in Chicago so he'll most likely compete for it there... maybe at Summerslam and a few other PPV's, he'll just be un-successful in getting it.