CM Punk Returns Home for SmackDown Before WrestleMania 41

CHICAGO, Illinois — CM Punk is set to make a triumphant return to his hometown on April 4, 2025, during WWE SmackDown, just days before his dream of main-eventing WrestleMania is realized. Punk will share the ring with notable stars Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins at the Allstate Arena, home to the Chicago Wolves.

WWE announced that the evening will feature key matchups, including a number one contenders’ bout for the WWE Tag Team Championships. The Motor City Machine Guns, comprised of Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin, will face DIY‘s Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa. This match follows a successful title defense by current champions Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins against Pretty Deadly.

Punk, known as ‘The Best in the World’, expressed his excitement about returning to Chicago. He shed tears upon hearing the news from Paul Heyman that he would headline WrestleMania in a triple threat match against Reigns and Rollins. ‘This is a dream come true,’ Punk remarked. ‘I’ve waited a long time for this opportunity.’

In addition to Punk’s homecoming, WWE is expected to provide updates on Drew McIntyre and Jimmy Uso’s injuries during the show. Fans are particularly eager for Punk to reveal his intentions regarding Paul Heyman, who has been an influential figure in his career.

Another headlining match will see Braun Strowman face Jacob Fatu in a Last Man Standing match. Both competitors have a history of intense confrontations, making this showdown highly anticipated. Fatu seeks to establish dominance while Strowman is out for revenge after months of conflict.

‘It’s all or nothing tonight,’ Fatu stated. ‘This match will prove who the real beast is in WWE.’

Moreover, the evening will feature B-Fab facing Naomi, who has shown fierce animosity towards Jade Cargill and anyone who supports her. Naomi aims to assert her power within the SmackDown Women’s Division, following a chaotic altercation in a previous episode.

WWE SmackDown on April 4th will air live at 8 p.m. ET on the USA Network. Fans can also watch via streaming services such as Fubo TV and Peacock. With WrestleMania just weeks away, WWE is ramping up the excitement, promising a thrilling night filled with surprises and intense matchups.