Sami Zayn Recaptures Undisputed WWE Title In Chaotic Main Event On WWE Smackdown

Posted By: Patrick A Ganczewski on Sep 12, 2026

Sami Zayn is once again the Undisputed WWE Champion, defeating CM Punk in a chaotic main event on the September 11 episode of WWE SmackDown in Mexico City.

Zayn finally received his long-awaited rematch against Punk after spending the past several weeks preventing other challengers from receiving an opportunity at the championship. The former champion made the most of his chance, capitalizing on interference and confusion at ringside to reclaim the title.

The championship match lasted approximately 15 and a half minutes before completely breaking down.

Punk appeared to have Zayn in serious trouble when he locked his challenger in the Anaconda Vice. Zayn tapped out, but the referee never saw the submission because Candice LeRae had distracted the official from the outside.

The situation escalated when Johnny Gargano entered the ring and grabbed the Undisputed WWE Championship, apparently intending to use the title as a weapon against Punk. Punk avoided the attack and instead connected with a Go To Sleep on Gargano.

Zayn then attempted to take advantage of the situation, but Kevin Owens rushed into the ring to stop him. Owens grabbed the championship and swung at Zayn, only for Punk to become the unintended target.

With Punk down, Zayn took matters into his own hands. He delivered a low blow to Owens before turning his attention back to the champion.

Zayn then connected with the Helluva Kick on Punk and covered him for the three-count.

Sami Zayn is once again the Undisputed WWE Champion.

The victory gives Zayn his second reign with the championship and brings an end to Punk's 64-day run as champion. Punk originally defeated Zayn for the title on the July 6 episode of WWE Raw.

Zayn's victory also dramatically reshapes WWE's championship picture heading forward. With Randy Orton already declaring his intentions to pursue his 15th world championship and several other Superstars circling the title, Zayn's second reign could immediately face significant challenges.

The road to Sami Zayn's next title defense is now officially underway.