CM Punk Keeps Winning While Drew McIntyre Keeps Losing—But Both Still Walk Out WWE Champions
CM Punk and Drew McIntyre may both be holding WWE’s biggest championships right now, but their recent results tell two very different stories—and fans are starting to notice.
CM Punk has been rock-solid since capturing the World Heavyweight Championship in November 2025, when he defeated Jey Uso to claim the vacant title. Since then, The Best in the World has continued to look unstoppable, successfully defending his championship on WWE RAW against Bron Breakker. His next major test is already lined up, with Finn Bálor set to challenge him on upcoming WWE television.
While Punk’s title reign has been steady, both champions have also been defending their gold on WWE live events — and that’s where things get interesting.
During “WWE Road To Royal Rumble: Riyadh”, which took place on January 18, 2026, at Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham, England, both world titles were on the line. CM Punk defended the World Heavyweight Championship against Bronson Reed and once again proved why he’s at the top, walking away with another clean victory.
Drew McIntyre’s night, however, was far messier.
The Undisputed WWE Champion faced Cody Rhodes, but the match ended in a disqualification loss for McIntyre. Despite losing the match, The Scottish Warrior retained his championship—adding yet another chapter to a growing pattern where McIntyre keeps the title but not the win.
For Cody Rhodes, the setback is even more frustrating. Due to a stipulation agreed upon before their January 9, 2026 SmackDown title match — where McIntyre initially won the championship — The American Nightmare is not entitled to a rematch on WWE television.
Still, Rhodes may not be out of the title picture for long.
Backstage speculation suggests Cody could win the Men’s Royal Rumble match, earning another shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship on the grandest stage. However, one thing is already certain — WWE has scrapped plans for Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 42, forcing a major shift in the company’s long-term booking.
As Royal Rumble season heats up, CM Punk looks untouchable, Drew McIntyre looks vulnerable, and Cody Rhodes may be plotting his biggest comeback yet.
