In another major revelation from the newly released “WWE: Unreal” docuseries on Netflix, it has been disclosed that the original plan for the main event of WrestleMania 41 Night One was for CM Punk to go over.
Original Plan Had CM Punk Winning WrestleMania Main Event
According to footage from the WWE writer’s room shown in the docuseries, the initial creative direction for the triple threat match between CM Punk, Roman Reigns, and Seth Rollins was for Punk to win. The series also revealed that an alternate version of this plan was discussed, which would have seen Paul Heyman betray Punk, only for Punk to overcome the betrayal and win the match anyway.
The Seth Rollins Surprise Turn Won Out
Ultimately, the creative team decided to go in a different direction. As seen at the premium live event in April, the Seth Rollins surprise turn pitch won out. In the actual finish, Paul Heyman betrayed both Roman Reigns and CM Punk, allowing Seth Rollins to capitalize on the chaos and steal the victory in the main event of Night One.
While CM Punk was denied his championship moment at WrestleMania, he has another opportunity to capture a world title this coming weekend. After winning a number one contender’s gauntlet match on Raw, Punk is now scheduled to challenge GUNTHER for the World Heavyweight Championship at the two-night SummerSlam premium live event on August 2nd and 3rd.
CM Punk was originally set to win the WrestleMania Night 1 Main Event vs Roman Reigns & Seth Rollins
There was even an idea to have Paul Heyman turn on Punk, and Punk still win. But the Seth Rollins surprise turn pitch won out.
(WWE: Unreal) pic.twitter.com/YeVSRbVODY
— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) July 29, 2025
