![[Spoilers] Surprise CM Punk Title Defense Added to September 4 WWE SmackDown](https://wrestlingnoticias.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/cm-punk-8-1024x576.webp)
The September 4 SmackDown just picked up a completely unexpected main event. CM Punk will put the Undisputed WWE Championship on the line against Johnny Gargano.
WWE is currently taping both the August 31 Raw and the September 4 SmackDown at the Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. The company doubled up both shows on the same day to give the crew and Superstars some downtime.
During a backstage segment taped for SmackDown, Punk crossed paths with Gargano and offered him a shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship. Shortly after, WWE displayed the official match graphic on the screens inside the Rocket Arena, confirming CM Punk vs. Johnny Gargano for later that night.
As of this report, the match had not yet taken place, with the tapings still in progress.
WWE actually planted the seeds for this one a few weeks back. On the August 7 SmackDown, Punk told Sami Zayn during a backstage exchange that he would give a title opportunity to either Gargano or Candice LeRae before giving Zayn another crack at the championship.
Gargano’s selection carries extra weight given the setting. Johnny Wrestling is a Cleveland native who has always had a strong connection to the city.