It’s being reported by several sources that CM Punk suffered a significant injury at Saturday’s Royal Rumble. It appears to have come from landing awkward after taking a “Future Shock DDT” at the hands of Drew McIntyre. After taking the move, Punk could be seen rolling out of the ring while clutching his left arm while referees checked him out. As of right now, it appears to be a torn triceps muscle. If this is true, and surgery is needed, it will mean significant time off. That also means his rumored match at Wrestlemania may not happen either.
From what I’m seeing, this injury did not have an effect on the finish. Cody Rhodes was indeed scripted to win his second Royal Rumble in a row, a feat only accomplished by 3 other superstars (Hulk Hogan, Shawn Michaels, and Steve Austin). Cody now appears to be taking on Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at Wrestlemania in a rematch of last year’s main event.
Punk, on the other hand, seems to have been on course to take on Seth Rollins for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. If this injury is as significant as feared, this match may not happen. This may be for the best, as Rollins himself was planning on wrestling through his own injuries. A few weeks back in a match against a returning Jinder Mahal, Rollins suffered a grade 2 tear of his MCL, and a partially torn meniscus. Without Punk to wrestle, Rollins will likely sit out as well.
This definitely puts a stain on what was looking to be the most exciting Wrestlemania in years, possibly decades. There’s still a lot that can happen between now and April, and the matches rumored for Wrestlemania XL still look great. But this will be a letdown to many fans hoping to see Rollins vs Punk.
Here’s a recap of Saturday’s Royal Rumble. Note at 21:04, Punk can be seen deliberately not using his left arm.
Cover Photo Credit: ASSOCIATED PRESS
