3 Things that must happen during CM Punk’s first SmackDown appearance as Undisputed WWE Champion

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That said, The Best in the World’s appearance on the Friday night show will mark the new chapter of his career. Here are three things that must happen during CM Punk’s first SmackDown appearance as the Undisputed WWE Champion.

#3. He must show a more ruthless side

CM Punk should not cut a standard babyface promo on SmackDown. Winning the Undisputed WWE Championship has changed his position in WWE. His first appearance as champion should reflect that.

Punk could address the way he won the title. He stepped into the main event after Cody Rhodes was ruled out and took the opportunity without hesitation. He does not have to apologize for that.

Instead, Punk could make it clear that he saw an opening and took it. He could also acknowledge the criticism surrounding Sami Zayn’s nine-day title reign. However, The Second City Saint could make it clear that none of it matters to him. His job is to win championships, and that is exactly what he did.

The promo would also continue the subtle character change WWE has been teasing. Punk would not need to turn into a full heel. Showing a more cynical and unapologetic side would be enough to give his title reign a different feel.

#2. CM Punk must announce SmackDown as his new home

CM Punk should make it clear that SmackDown is now his home. Winning the Undisputed WWE Championship naturally puts him on the blue brand. His first appearance as champion is the right time to confirm that he is staying on Friday nights.

That would also help the championship. The title has changed hands twice in just nine days. WWE now needs some stability at the top of the card. Having Punk commit to SmackDown would immediately establish him as the brand’s top champion.

It would also set the direction for his reign. Fans would know that CM Punk’s next rivalries and title defenses will take place on SmackDown. That would make the road to SummerSlam much clearer while giving the blue brand a permanent face of the main event scene.

#1. A heated confrontation with Cody Rhodes

Cody Rhodes should interrupt CM Punk on SmackDown. The American Nightmare was originally supposed to challenge Sami Zayn for the Undisputed WWE Championship. However, Gunther took him out before the match, and Punk stepped in as the replacement before winning the title.

Cody has every reason to confront the new champion. He could make it clear that the title opportunity belonged to him and that he intends to get it back. Punk, meanwhile, could remind Rhodes that he simply accepted an opportunity that was put in front of him.

The confrontation could quickly become heated. Before things get physical, Sami Zayn and Gunther could interrupt the segment. Zayn still has unfinished business with Punk after losing the title, while Gunther is responsible for taking Cody out of the match in the first place.

The segment would put all four stars in the same ring. It would also establish the Undisputed WWE Championship picture on SmackDown heading into SummerSlam.