Sami Zayn made a major impact at Night of Champions on June 27 when he captured the Undisputed WWE Championship by pinning Cody Rhodes in a triple threat match that also included GUNTHER. The clean victory surprised many and quickly changed the direction of WWE’s main event scene.
On RAW, Zayn is scheduled to defend the title against Rhodes in a one-on-one rematch. The bout has created strong discussion among fans, with many expecting Rhodes to regain the championship as WWE moves toward SummerSlam. That possibility has raised concerns about Zayn’s reign being short-lived.
Sami Zayn Undisputed WWE Championship reign
Speaking on his Phenomenally Retro Podcast, AJ Styles addressed the situation and made it clear he hopes WWE avoids turning Zayn into a transitional champion. Styles said he believes Zayn has the ability to carry the role and that a quick title change would not benefit the story.
“I don’t want to see a transitional champion,” Styles said. “I think that Sami’s more than capable of pulling off being a world champion, and totally pulling off being the underdog here. But, I don’t know what the next part of the story is… That’s a good thing where I’m not so sure what’s going to happen. You’ve got people worried that Sami’s just going to be a transitional champion. He’s going to win it just to lose it to who knows. I don’t think that’s the best way to go about doing the storyline. I think there’s some magic to be made and I wish I was smart enough to figure it out.”
The uncertainty around Zayn’s title defense has only increased interest in the match. His victory over Rhodes and GUNTHER was seen as a defining moment, but how long he holds the championship will determine the long-term impact of that win.
Adding to the discussion, CM Punk is reportedly set to appear on RAW, which is taking place in Chicago. Punk had previously confronted Rhodes following WrestleMania 42, telling him he intended to challenge for the championship. Rhodes responded at the time by saying he would be ready.
That past exchange has led to questions about WWE’s direction, especially with Rhodes now positioned for a rematch against Zayn. The outcome of the RAW main event could shape the company’s plans heading into SummerSlam, particularly if Punk becomes involved in the title picture.
For now, the focus remains on whether Zayn can secure his first successful title defense or if Rhodes will quickly reclaim the championship. Styles’ comments reflect a broader concern that WWE should avoid a short-term switch and instead build a longer story around Zayn’s reign.
AJ Styles Hopes Sami Zayn Avoids Transitional Reign
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