CM Punk vs Drew McIntyre 2026 Rivalry

CM Punk vs Drew McIntyre — Personal Hatred

Few feuds in recent WWE history generated the genuine heat of CM Punk versus Drew McIntyre. Their rivalry crossed from storyline into something that felt real — two men who genuinely couldn't stand each other, settled inside a steel cage.

The Punk vs McIntyre Story

Punk's Return Interrupted
CM Punk's return to WWE hit a roadblock when Drew McIntyre made it his personal mission to ensure Punk never achieved the championship glory he sought — leading to one of wrestling's most heated feuds.
Drew's Championship Obsession
Drew McIntyre's frustration at championship opportunities slipping away made Punk the perfect target — someone he could blame for derailing his main event destiny.
The Promos That Burned
Both men are among the best talkers in wrestling. Their mic exchanges during this rivalry were appointment viewing — personal, sharp and often genuinely uncomfortable.
Injury Controversy
Punk's injuries added real-world stakes to the rivalry — Drew's refusal to show any sympathy painted him as a ruthless villain willing to exploit any vulnerability.
PPV Showdowns
Their PPV matches delivered on the hate — physical, brawling, violent affairs that matched the intensity of their promo segments.
Legacy of the Feud
The Punk-McIntyre rivalry will be remembered as one of the rare feuds where the animosity felt authentic — elevating both men's status in the process.