Sami Zayn has reclaimed the WWE Championship, defeating CM Punk in a chaotic rematch on WWE SmackDown.
The title bout was set up after last week’s episode, when Punk retained the championship against Johnny Gargano.
Zayn had attempted to help Gargano during that contest, creating an alliance that ultimately carried over into this week’s championship encounter.
Zayn came close to forcing Punk to submit after locking in the Anaconda Vice. Just as the champion appeared to be in serious trouble, however, Candice LeRae intervened by distracting the referee, meaning the official could not properly acknowledge the submission.
The match quickly descended into disorder.
Gargano later tried to interfere on Zayn’s behalf, attempting to use the WWE Championship as a weapon against Punk. Punk managed to avoid the attack and responded by delivering a GTS to Gargano.
Kevin Owens then entered the fray, adding another layer of unpredictability to an already chaotic match. Owens attempted to strike Zayn with the championship belt, but Zayn moved out of the way, resulting in Punk taking the blow instead.
Zayn capitalized on the confusion. He struck Owens with a low blow before immediately refocusing on Punk. Moments later, Zayn connected with the Helluva Kick and covered Punk for the three-count.
The victory makes Zayn a two-time WWE Champion.
The title change could also have immediate implications for the championship picture. Earlier in the evening, Gargano told Zayn that he would be next in line for a title opportunity if Zayn managed to defeat Punk.
Now that Zayn has captured the championship, Gargano’s claim to the next title shot could create a fresh storyline heading into the next chapter of WWE programming.
For Zayn, meanwhile, the victory marks another major milestone in his WWE career as he begins his second reign as WWE Champion.
