Sami Zayn Claims Undisputed WWE Championship Again

In an exciting main event of Friday Night SmackDown, chaos unfolded as Sami Zayn emerged victorious, becoming the new Undisputed WWE Champion. The event took place at Arena Ciudad de Mexico in Mexico City on September 11, 2026.

CM Punk, defending his title against Zayn, had initially claimed the championship from Zayn a few weeks ago on Monday Night Raw. Zayn’s first reign was short-lived, ending just days after he pinned Cody Rhodes at Night of Champions. Determined and eager, Zayn sought another chance to reclaim the championship.

“Sami Zayn delivered a Helluva Kick to CM Punk,” WWE via Getty Images

The match drew attention as Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae seemed to support Zayn. At one point, LeRae diverted the referee’s attention, allowing Gargano to attempt hitting Punk with the championship belt. However, he missed and got caught by Punk’s Go to Sleep move. As the referee tended to Gargano, Kevin Owens made his appearance, aiming for Zayn with the belt but ended up hitting Punk instead.

Punk, unfazed by the accident, prepared for another move but Zayn quickly capitalized, delivering a precise Helluva Kick for the victory and pinning Punk.

This marks Zayn’s second Undisputed WWE Championship victory of the year. His initial reign lasted a brief nine days. Fans are hopeful this tenure endures longer.

The title has already exchanged hands multiple times this year. Drew McIntyre secured it in January, followed by Rhodes in March. Zayn took it from Rhodes in June, losing to Punk in July. As of September, with upcoming premium live events, Zayn holds the title yet again.

The championship scene remains unpredictable. Potential challengers including Punk, Owens, Rhodes, Gargano, and Randy Orton are in line alongside McIntyre, who might return to the ring soon.