6 WWE stars who CM Punk challenged for his first title defense on RAW

The newly crowned WWE World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk, kicked off the post-Saturday Night's Main Event XLI RAW with his promo. He started by thanking his wife, AJ Lee, and fans for always standing by him.

During his promo, Punk stated that he wants to be a fighting champion and compete with the best in the division, as well as anyone who has earned a shot at the title. Interestingly, the Second City Saint called out some names as his potential opponents he would like to face.

In this listicle, let's rewind his promo and hear the superstar, the newly crowned champion, called out:

John Cena's last opponent leaked? Check here!

#1. AJ Styles

The first name Punk called out was the Phenomenal One, and the current one-half of World Tag Team Champions alongside Dragon Lee. Styles hasn't held any major singles title in a long time, but has still been a workhorse for the promotion.

Punk expressed that Styles is among a few stars who have earned a direct shot at the World title and would love to share the ring with the legend.

#2. WWE Champion vs. Champion bout

The Best in the World, also named the Intercontinental and AAA Mega Champion, named "Dirty" Dom as his potential challenger, even though he believes he doesn't deserve a shot at the world title.

But Dominik is one of the superstars Punk wants to punch, showcasing the hatred he has for the Judgment Day member.

#3. JD McDonagh

Surprisingly, the Second City Saint even called out the Judgment Day's JD McDonagh, and even labeled him as an underrated star. The Irish Ace has been one of the most skilled technical pro wrestlers on the roster.

The 35-year-old star lost the World Tag Team Championship earlier this month on a regular edition of WWE RAW against the team of AJ Styles and Dragon Lee. JD competing in a title match against Punk would be poetic.

#4. Finn Balor

Talking of Judgment Day, the Canadian champion also called out the inaugural Universal titleholder for being a challenger for his World Heavyweight title.

Balor and Punk's bout could be a treat for the fans, given their experience in professional wrestling; both could deliver a five-star classic match.

#5. John Cena

Pepsi Phill expressed that even the Cenation Leader could face him and try to become an 18-time champion. Two faced each other at the WWE Night of Champions 2025 earlier this year.

Cena has only four dates left in his retirement tour; him competing in yet another championship bout could be a perfect box-office attraction.

#6. Sheamus

Another bout, the Cenation Leader called for was against the Celtic Warrior, asking him whether he wanted to put on another banger with him this time, with the WWE World title on the line.

The Irish icon is one of the strongest powerhouses on the active roster and could have a spectacular dance in the squared circle.

Edited by Angana Roy