WATCH: CM Punk gets emotional during Cody Rhodes’ entrance at WWE Live Event
CM Punk and Cody Rhodes shared an emotional moment following their match during WWE's recent live event in Europe.

CM Punk and Cody Rhodes (via WWE)
CM Punk and Cody Rhodes share a history that spans years, with The Best in the World often serving as a mentor to The American Nightmare. Time and again, Punk has witnessed Rhodes’ evolution into a top-tier champion. Recently, the two shared a heartwarming moment at a WWE Live event in Nottingham, highlighting their respect and camaraderie.
During Rhodes’ entrance, The Second City Saint watched as he marched to the ring. The two stars exchanged a nod and a laugh before the Undisputed WWE Champion continued his entrance. As the camera panned to The Straight Edge Superstar, he was seen clapping with heartfelt enthusiasm, his expression filled with admiration for The American Nightmare’s remarkable journey.
Rhodes and Punk joined forces in Nottingham to face two of the biggest heels on the roster, Solo Sikoa and Gunther. Although the competition was stiff, the two veterans managed to get a triumphant win over their rivals during this live show. However, this show of respect between The Best in the World and The American Nightmare has been making buzz all over the internet.
Sometimes you just need a moment to take it all in… ❤️ pic.twitter.com/cnSzH7n0RJ
— WWE (@WWE) March 23, 2025
Although the two former AEW stars have yet to face off in the ring, a match between them remains a dream encounter for many fans. While they have exchanged words and expressed a desire to compete, their showdown remains a distant possibility for now. Nonetheless, both are set for battles at WrestleMania—Punk will take on Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins, while Rhodes is set to clash with John Cena.
CM Punk believes John Cena has no chance against Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania
After their match, Cody Rhodes and CM Punk took a moment to engage with the WWE Universe in Nottingham. The Best in the World, still riding the adrenaline rush, addressed the crowd with enthusiasm. Without hesitation, he name-dropped John Cena in his promo while hyping up The American Nightmare ahead of WrestleMania 41.

The Second City Saint declared WWE as Rhodes’ house and the WWE Universe as his family. Without hesitation, Punk referred to The American Nightmare as the champion in the Stamford-based promotion, showing his full support. What stood out, however, was his bold statement about Cena—confidently claiming that The Prodigal Son has the upper hand and that Cena stands no chance in their showdown.
Imagine if CM PUNK and Cody Rhodes were both in AEW?
— Heel_Ucey (@Heel_Uce) March 23, 2025
How awesome that will be
Oh yea oops LOL pic.twitter.com/j74TRZSlBM
The Best in the World is firmly in Cody Rhodes’ corner as he prepares to take on Cena and his inner circle—The Rock and Travis Scott. Following Elimination Chamber, Punk delivered a scathing promo against The Final Boss and The Cenation Leader, and for good reason—after all, it was Cena who defeated him to secure his spot at The Show of Shows.
Cody Rhodes and CM Punk to join sides against John Cena and The Rock this year?
Cody Rhodes and CM Punk are WWE’s top babyfaces. Meanwhile, The Rock and John Cena have become the company’s biggest heels. With tensions rising, fans wonder if Rhodes and Punk will team up. A showdown with the Hollywood duo could be massive.
After WrestleMania, The Great One is expected to return around SummerSlam. While he may not wrestle, his rivalry with Cody could still shape WWE’s landscape. Punk has also clashed with the Hollywood duo, as seen in his fiery Raw promo after Elimination Chamber. He might step up to defend The Prodigal Son, setting the stage for a showdown.
If Punk and Rhodes team up, it could mirror Rhodes and Rollins’ battle last year. However, WWE’s plans for this dream match remain uncertain. Still, the possibility excites fans.
Related: Jade Cargill unleashes on Bianca Belair following a huge loss on SmackDown