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That said, in this article, we look at four finishes that could close the blockbuster showdown.
#4. CM Punk defeats Cody Rhodes clean to cement his legacy
Although many fans expect outside interference or a controversial finish in a match of this magnitude, WWE could take a far bolder approach by having CM Punk defeat Cody Rhodes clean in the middle of the ring.
After an exhausting back-and-forth contest that sees both men survive each other’s signature moves, Punk could finally create the opening he needs by countering a third Cross Rhodes attempt into a devastating GTS. Instead of immediately going for the cover, The Best in the World could pull Cody back to his feet and connect with a second GTS to leave no doubt about the result before securing the three-count.
A decisive victory would instantly reinforce Punk’s status as the face of SmackDown. It would also prove that, even against one of WWE’s biggest stars, he remains the superior competitor when the stakes are at their highest.
For Cody Rhodes, the clean loss wouldn’t hurt his standing. Instead, it would provide the perfect foundation for his next chapter as he attempts to climb back to the top after falling short on the biggest stage of the summer. Meanwhile, CM Punk could close SummerSlam by raising the Undisputed WWE Championship high above his head.
#3. Punk survives after a controversial referee bump
WWE has carefully portrayed both Cody Rhodes and CM Punk as competitors capable of defeating anyone cleanly. However, a referee bump could allow the match to become more chaotic without making either man look weak.
Imagine both superstars trading finishers for nearly thirty minutes before an accidental collision takes out the official. Cody lands Cross Rhodes, but there’s nobody available to count the pin. Moments later, Punk recovers and connects with the GTS, only to face the exact same problem.
The absence of a referee would create an atmosphere of desperation. Both men could resort to using exposed turnbuckles or steel chairs, not necessarily because they’re villains, but because the championship means everything to them.
Eventually, another referee arrives just as CM Punk capitalizes on The American Nightmare’s momentary hesitation, thus allowing him to retain the title.
Such a finish protects Cody Rhodes while extending one of WWE’s hottest rivalries into the autumn. Considering how personal their verbal exchanges have become in recent weeks, a disputed ending would only intensify the animosity between the two rivals.
#2. Cody finally turns heel to capture the championship
For years, fans have speculated about a Cody Rhodes heel turn. Although The American Nightmare has remained one of WWE’s biggest babyfaces, subtle cracks have occasionally appeared whenever the pressure reaches its peak. Thus, SummerSlam could become the perfect stage for that transformation.
After failing to put CM Punk away despite multiple Cross Rhodes attempts, Cody could realize that playing by the rules simply isn’t enough. He could deliberately expose a turnbuckle, use the championship belt behind the referee’s back, or even strike Punk with a low blow before delivering one final Cross Rhodes.
The victory would immediately shock the WWE Universe. Instead of celebrating with tears in his eyes, The American Nightmare could embrace the darker side of his character, declaring that finishing the story now means doing whatever is necessary to stay on top.
This outcome would instantly refresh Cody Rhodes’ presentation while giving SmackDown an entirely new top villain. Meanwhile, CM Punk would have every reason to pursue revenge.
#1. Cody wins clean after surviving multiple GTS attempts
Sometimes the simplest ending is also the strongest. WWE has spent weeks promoting this encounter as a dream match between two of the industry’s biggest stars. That makes a decisive finish entirely possible.
After surviving two GTS attempts and refusing to stay down, Cody could finally overcome Punk by countering a third GTS into Cross Rhodes. Instead of stopping there, he could immediately deliver a second Cross Rhodes before scoring the decisive three-count.
The victory would establish Rhodes as the superior competitor on that particular night while keeping Punk incredibly strong after forcing Cody to reach another level.
Following the match, The Second City Saint could shake The American Nightmare’s hand in a rare show of sportsmanship, acknowledging that Rhodes was simply the better man at SummerSlam.
Also, a respectful ending would open several intriguing possibilities. CM Punk could shift his focus toward reclaiming the title later in the year. Meanwhile, Cody Rhodes begins a fresh championship reign against challengers like Sami Zayn or Finn Balor.
After all the emotional promos and mutual respect mixed with resentment, having one man definitively prove himself would give the rivalry the satisfying conclusion that many fans have been waiting for in 2026.
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