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Kevin Owens Battles CM Punk for WWE Title After SummerSlam Return

2026-08-29 · Kevin Owens · Match Report

Kevin Owens Battles CM Punk for WWE Title After SummerSlam Return

Kevin Owens is set for a major title shot against CM Punk on WWE SmackDown, capping a dramatic return to action. The Prizefighter earned his No. 1 Contender status by winning a match at SummerSlam earlier this month, setting up a high-stakes clash in his home country of Canada tonight.

What is the history between Kevin Owens and CM Punk?

Owens and Punk have a long and contentious history that dates back nearly twenty years. Both were part of the Ring of Honor roster in the mid-2000s, where a heated backstage argument first sparked their rivalry. Last week on SmackDown, the two engaged in a war of words to build anticipation for their championship match. Owens stated he must beat Punk to finally lay a personal ghost to rest, while Punk aims to solidify his reign as champion.

Their match on August 29, 2026, represents a full-circle moment for both veterans, with the Undisputed WWE Championship on the line.

Why is Kevin Owens' 'Steenalizer' move banned in WWE?

During his extensive career on the independent circuit, Owens used a devastating finisher called the Steenalizer. The move's sheer brutality led to it being prohibited once he signed with WWE. A fan compilation posted on social media recently reignited discussion about its impact.

AEW star EVIL UNO, who wrestled Owens multiple times between 2007 and 2011 in promotions like ROH and C4, responded to the clip. He simply stated, "This sucked to take," confirming the move's notorious reputation firsthand. This highlights the more aggressive style Owens employed before his WWE tenure, where his moveset was adapted for television.

How did Kevin Owens secure his title opportunity?

Owens' path to the championship picture began with a successful return at SummerSlam in August 2026. In his first match back, he won a contest that made him the No. 1 Contender for CM Punk's title. This quick ascent demonstrates his immediate impact upon re-entering the WWE landscape.

The upcoming match is not just about gold. It's a deeply personal grudge match two decades in the making, with both men looking to settle old scores on the grandest stage. The result will have major implications for the SmackDown main event scene.

  • Kevin Owens fights CM Punk for the Undisputed WWE Championship on SmackDown on August 29, 2026.
  • Owens' banned 'Steenalizer' move was described as terrible to take by AEW's EVIL UNO, who faced him on the indies.
  • The rivalry began around 2006 in Ring of Honor, with a backstage argument fueling years of tension.
  • Owens returned at SummerSlam in August 2026 and won a match to become the No. 1 Contender.

More Kevin Owens news →