CM Punk and Roman Reigns' WrestleMania Feud Heats Up

The two wrestling superstars' clash at the upcoming 'Showcase of the Immortals' is shaping up to be an all-time great.

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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The highly anticipated match between World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk and Royal Rumble winner Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 42 is already one of the most heated feuds in recent WWE history. The two have a long-standing rivalry dating back over a decade, and their personal animosity is palpable as they trade increasingly personal barbs ahead of their title showdown in Las Vegas.

Why it matters

This match is about more than just the championship - it's about the past, present, and future of professional wrestling. Punk and Reigns are two of the most polarizing figures in the industry, and their feud has the potential to be an all-time classic that captivates fans.

The details

The seeds for this match were planted as far back as 2014, when Punk's infamous 'Art of Wrestling' interview with Colt Cabana inadvertently turned fans against the up-and-coming Reigns. The two have crossed paths several times since then, including a show-stealing triple threat match at last year's WrestleMania. Now, with the World Heavyweight Championship on the line, their animosity has reached a fever pitch, with Punk recently telling Reigns he'll bury him 'next to his dead dad'.

  • In 2014, Punk's 'Art of Wrestling' interview turned fans against Reigns.
  • In 2024, Punk and Reigns butted heads at WarGames.
  • At WrestleMania 41 in 2025, Punk, Reigns, and Seth Rollins had a triple threat match.
  • Reigns won the 2026 Royal Rumble, earning a title shot against Punk at WrestleMania 42.

The players

CM Punk

The reigning World Heavyweight Champion, known for his outspoken personality and his history of clashing with WWE management.

Roman Reigns

The 2026 Royal Rumble winner, who is looking to capture his first World Heavyweight Championship and cement his status as the face of WWE's next generation.

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What they’re saying

“I challenged you at WrestleMania because I've always hated you for making my life so hard when I was getting started.”

— Roman Reigns (cinemablend.com)

“I'm going to bury you next to your dead dad.”

— CM Punk, World Heavyweight Champion (cinemablend.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This match between CM Punk and Roman Reigns is shaping up to be one of the most intense and personal feuds in recent WWE history, with the two superstars' long-standing animosity and the World Heavyweight Championship on the line. Fans are in for a must-see showdown at WrestleMania 42 that could cement the legacy of both men.