Plans for CM Punk at WWE Money in the Bank 2026 in New Orleans have reportedly hit a major snag, moving from an expected appearance to complete internal uncertainty.
Speaking on WrestleVotes Radio, Joey Votes revealed that earlier discussions regarding Punk working the October 10 event at the Smoothie King Center have cooled down:
“Additionally, regarding the Money in the Bank show, we’re told there is similar uncertainty surrounding CM Punk. According to a source, Punk was at one point discussed to work the event in New Orleans, but that is no longer certain at this time.”
The update represents a stark shift from prior reports, which indicated that Punk was originally expected to be a featured star on the card. The news comes alongside similar creative shifts regarding Seth Rollins, putting the star power of the Premium Live Event in question.
Backlash Growing Over New Orleans Compensation Event
The timing of the uncertainty carries added weight for New Orleans fight fans. The city was initially slated to host WrestleMania 42 before WWE altered its event schedule, with Money in the Bank being positioned as a marquee substitute for the market.
Co-host TC expressed frustration over how the potential loss of both Punk and Rollins impacts fans who were expecting a stadium-level showcase:
“It’s a good question, and I don’t have an answer for you, but I do have a thought that if I am someone who was looking forward to going to WrestleMania in New Orleans and now you’re on this microphone telling me, Joey Votes, that maybe I’m not getting Punk, maybe I’m not getting Rollins. I’m pretty PO’d about the situation that’s unfolding at Money in the Bank, given all the high hopes I had. The Rock announcing Bourbon Street, here we come. Little Wayne. All the things that go into the Mardi Gras feel of a New Orleans WrestleMania that we’ve all known to come and love a couple of times over.”
Joey Votes echoed the sentiment, noting the contrast between losing a two-night stadium spectacle and receiving a scaled-down arena show:
“Two nights of WrestleMania has now turned into five matches at a PLE at the Smoothie King Center.”
TC added that removing marquee names like Punk and Rollins undercuts the narrative that Money in the Bank serves as a “make good” for the host city:
“That’s what I’m thinking about when you hear these kind of news, that this was a make good to the city of New Orleans. Hey, we’re sorry we did that to you. We’re gonna make it up to you. And you know what? We’re gonna give you no CM Punk. We’re gonna give you no Seth Rollins.”
While Punk has not been officially ruled out of the broadcast, his involvement remains up in the air as WWE continues finalizing the match card for New Orleans.
For live event coverage, card updates, and ongoing backstage reporting, visit WrestlingAttitude.com.
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