WWE Night of Champions, held on June 28, 2025, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was a pivotal premium live event (PLE) that not only delivered high-stakes matches. It also set the stage for significant storyline developments heading into SummerSlam and beyond. With only two championship matches but critical tournament finals and grudge matches, the event shaped WWE’s creative landscape for the summer. We will explore key storylines from this event and potential future directions, drawing from the results and narrative threads established during the show.
It featured six matches, including the finals of the King and Queen of the Ring tournaments. It guaranteed the match winners a championship match at SummerSlam on August 2-3. The event was headlined by John Cena defending the Undisputed WWE Championship against CM Punk. This marked a significant moment in Cena’s retirement tour. Other matches included Cody Rhodes vs Randy Orton, Jacob Fatu vs Solo Sikoa for the United States Championship, Rhea Ripley vs Raquel Rodriguez in a Street Fight, and Sami Zayn vs Karrion Kross.
Despite only two title matches, the event’s outcomes had far-reaching implications for WWE’s narrative arcs. The involvement of new stars like Tala Tonga (formerly Hikuleo) and returning veterans like Tonga Loa will hopefully spice up the Bloodline Saga. Ongoing feuds in The Judgement Day will be settled or will tear the group apart, finally. Kross’ mind games will ensure, along with other storylines, a robust midcard heading into the summer.
John Cena retained the championship in a chaotic 26-minute match. He defeated CM Punk in a pinfall after interference from Seth Rollins, Bron Breakker, Bronson Reed, Penta, and Sami Zayn. This match revisited one of WWE’s most iconic rivalries. However, this time, Cena played the heel, determined to retire as the “last real champion” by taking the title with him at the end of 2025. Punk, positioned as the babyface, aimed to dethrone Cena. It echoed their 2011 Money in the Bank feud, where Punk left WWE with the championship. Cena’s recent parody of Punk’s “pipebomb” promo added a layer to their rivalry, intensifying the personal stakes.
The Night of Champions match was a showcase of classic wrestling psychology, with Cena and Punk delivering a compelling performance until multiple run-ins disrupted the flow. First, with Seth Rollins’ interference, teasing a Money in the Bank cash-in. Then, with attacks from Reed and Breakker. It shifted the focus to future feuds rather than the match itself. This caused the match to earn around 3 stars from most critics. The overbooking highlighted WWE’s intent to plant seeds for multi-man matches or faction-based conflicts in the future. But it detracted from the anticipated purity of a Cena-Punk classic match. Cena’s retention reinforces his narrative of an untouchable champion, while Punk’s loss fuels his underdog story.
Cena’s heel persona set up a major showdown with Cody Rhodes at SummerSlam. This is a rematch from WrestleMania 41 that many fans hope goes differently. There’s speculation of a potential double turn at SummerSlam, with Cena possibly reverting to a babyface before his retirement in December 2025. While I think that he will not retire as a heel. I’m not sure that it happens at SummerSlam. This would be too obvious for everyone to want to do.
Seth Rollins reignited his ongoing feud with CM Punk by interfering in the match. Rollins hit Punk with the Money in the Bank briefcase. Therefore, Punk may shift his focus to challenging Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship or confront him in a multi-man match involving Sami Zayn and Penta, who countered Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker.
Punk’s loss despite kicking out of multiple Attitude Adjustments, keeps him as a sympathetic figure. His next steps could involve chasing Seth Rollins or seeking another shot at Cena, possibly at Saturday Night’s Main Event on July 12th.
Cody Rhodes defeated Randy Orton via pinfall with the Cross Rhodes. This earned him the King of the Ring crown and a shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship at SummerSlam. The match pitted former Legacy stablemates against each other, with Rhodes as the babyface and Orton as the veteran mentor. The buildup emphasized their shared history. I don’t think that Orton’s recent King of the Ring loss in the finals to Gunther in 2024 was played up enough. Orton’s teased back injury and hesitation to use the Punt added emotional depth, while Rhodes showed a slight heel side by targeting Orton’s back.
This match rated four and 1/4 stars by many on the internet. The match was a standout for its storytelling, especially with Orton’s selling of his back and Rhodes’ aggression. It created a compelling dynamic. The Saudi crowd’s initial booing of Rhodes and their support for Orton hinted at a potential shift in fan perception. Some analysts on the major websites noted Cody Rhodes’ subtle heel tactics, like using the exposed turnbuckle as a sign of character evolution. Orton’s post-match frustration and stare-down with Rhodes planted seeds for a future rivalry.
Rhodes’ Night of Champions’ victory secures a high-profile rematch with Cena, likely headlining SummerSlam. His post-match promo acknowledged the crowd’s mixed reactions. Cody asserted he was “born to do this.” It reinforced his determination but also hinted at a possible heel turn if fans continue to sour on him.
Orton’s dismay at losing and his history of ruthless tactics suggest a potential heel turn. This could set up a feud with Rhodes post-SummerSlam. This duo could dominate SmackDown’s main event scene in late 2025, possibly culminating at Survivor Series 2025 or Royal Rumble 2026.
The subtle heel tendencies in Rhodes’ performance could foreshadow a full heel turn, especially if he fails to dethrone John Cena. This would align with the WWE’s long-term storytelling, potentially pitting a heel Rhodes against a returning babyface like Roman Reigns. However, I can’t see WWE turning Cody heel right now. Not with him being a top merch seller and fans throughout the world loving him.
Jade Cargill defeated Asuka with Jaded. Many online called out the botched pin by Jade. However, this Night of Champions match gave her the Queen of the Ring crown and earned her a WWE Women’s Championship match at SummerSlam. Asuka, a veteran returning from a year-long injury, faced Cargill, a rising star who missed time in late 2024 due to a storyline injury caused by Naomi. The match highlighted Jade’s meteoric rise against Asuka’s technical prowess.
The match showcased Cargill’s power and Asuka’s resilience, with key moments like Asuka’s leglock and Jade’s sit-out powerbomb. Jade’s victory marks a significant push, positioning her as a top contender in the women’s division. The narrative focused on her overcoming a seasoned opponent and reinforcing her as a future star. However, some analysts question whether Jade and Tiffany can deliver a high-quality championship match given their relative inexperience.
Jade’s SummerSlam match against Tiffany Stratton (or potentially Naomi if she would cash in her Money in the Bank briefcase) will be a defining moment. WWE seems committed to building Jade Cargill as a dominant force, but her in-ring limitations may require a veteran like Naomi to elevate the match. Although I’m not sure that I’m ready for this rematch after their showing at WrestleMania 41.
Asuka’s loss doesn’t diminish her status, as she could transition into a mentor role or feud with other women like Nia Jax or one of the newer NXT wrestlers. Her return adds depth to the women’s division, potentially leading to a tag team or faction storyline. I would like to see Asuka regain her status as a prominent wrestler in WWE.
With the all-women’s Evolution 2 PLE on July 13th, Jade Cargill’s momentum could carry into a multi-woman match or a non-title feud, especially if Naomi or another star interferes in her championship pursuit.
Solo Sikoa defeated Jacob Fatu with the Samoan Spike to win the United States Championship. Of course, this was aided by interference from a returning Tonga Loa, a debuting Hikuleo as Tala Tonga, and JC Matteo. This match continued the ongoing Bloodline saga, with Fatu, a fan-favorite babyface, defending against his cousin, Sikoa, who has rebuilt his faction with new members. The interference by Tonga Loa and Tala Tonga’s debut shifted the dynamic, giving Sikoa a dominant stable.
The Night of Champions match was chaotic but effective in advancing the Bloodline storyline, with Fatu’s comeback nature (surviving a DDT and moonsault attempts) contrasted by Sikoa’s reliance on his faction. Tala Tonga’s debut as a powerhouse added intrigue. Solo was established as a credible midcard heel with the championship change. The finish, involving a chokeslam through the announce desk, was a spectacle that kept Fatu strong despite the loss.
Jacob Fatu’s loss and isolation suggest a potential alliance with a returning Roman Reigns. This would set up another chapter in the Bloodline saga. Jimmy and Jey Uso’s involvement could lead to a faction war, possibly at SummerSlam or Survivor Series 2025.
Sikoa’s new faction (Tonga Loa, Tala Tonga, JC Matteo, and possibly a returning Tama Tonga) is poised to dominate SmackDown’s midcard. This could lead to them potentially feuding with teams like the Street Profits or Legado Del Fantasma. A gimmick match at SummerSlam could see Fatu seek revenge.
Fatu’s popularity remains intact. His alignment with the Usos and/or Reigns could elevate him to a main-event contender by 2026, possibly challenging for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.
Rhea Ripley defeated Raquel Rodriguez via pinfall with a Riptide through a table despite interference from Roxanne Perez. This grudge match stemmed from Ripley’s issues with The Judgement Day and Liv Morgan (who is sidelined with a shoulder injury), with Raquel as Morgan’s bodyguard. The Street Fight stipulation allowed for a brutal brawl, highlighted by weapons such as kendo sticks and belts. Perez’s interference underscored her pursuit of Judgement Day’s acceptance.
This Night of Champions match was rated about three and a half stars. It was a solid, physical encounter that showcased Ripley’s dominance. Ripley’s victory, despite Roxanne’s interference, reinforces her as a top star, while the stipulation hid some of Raquel’s in-ring limitations. The involvement of Roxanne, wearing Judgement Day colors, adds layers to the faction’s dynamics.
With Liv Morgan injured, Rhea’s feud with the Judgement Day may pause. This would allow her to target the Women’s Championship or compete in a high-profile match at Evolution 2. A feud with one of the newer NXT wrestlers could elevate both stars.
Perez’s interference suggests a continued alliance with Rodriguez and her pursuit of Finn Balor’s approval. This may lead to a tag team feud or a betrayal angle in the future. Raquel’s loss keeps her in the midcard picture, but a heel turn could refresh her character.
The faction’s internal dynamics, with Roxanne Perez seeking inclusion, could lead to a split (which was planned before Liv Morgan’s injury) or a reformation, especially if Finn Balor or Dominik Mysterio assert leadership.
Sami Zayn defeated Karrion Kross via pinfall with a Helluva Kick. Kross had been taunting Zayn for weeks, targeting his failure to win a world championship and urging him to embrace a darker side. The feud, sparked by backstage confrontations, culminated in a Night of Champions match added late to the card after Dominik Mysterio’s injury canceled his Intercontinental Championship defense against AJ Styles.
This match was rated at three and a 1/4 stars. The match was a narrative-driven contest. We saw Zayn resisting Kross’ psychological manipulation and securing a feel-good victory. Kross’ loss, despite a strong performance, highlights his struggle to gain momentum on PLEs. His entrance and presence remain compelling, but WWE Creative will not establish him as anything more. Zayn’s win in front of an adoring Saudi crowd solidifies his babyface status.
Sami Zayn’s victory keeps him as a fan favorite, potentially leading to a renewed push for the World Heavyweight Championship or a role in a multi-man match with Punk and Rollins. His emotional in-ring styles could shine at SummerSlam or Survivor Series.
Karrion Kross’ loss may fuel a more aggressive heel run, possibly with Scarlett’s involvement or with a new faction. A feud with a rising star like Bron Breakker or Ilja Dragunov (when he returns) could elevate him.
Kross may persist in targeting Sami Zayn, potentially costing him in a bigger match, though this risks stagnating both characters even more if not handled correctly.
The main event’s excessive interference highlights WWE’s tendency to overcomplicate finishes, which could alienate fans if repeated at SummerSlam. Injuries to Dominik Mysterio and Liv Morgan forced card changes. This underscored the need for flexible booking. Cody Rhodes’ babyface run and John Cena’s heel turn risk losing fan support if not executed with better nuance.
The King and Queen of the Ring winners provide clear championship matches for SummerSlam, allowing WWE to focus on building up other compelling feuds in July. Hikuleo’s debut and Jade Cargill’s push offer fresh faces to elevate the roster, especially with veterans nearing retirement. The all-women’s PLE on July 13th provides a chance to showcase Jade Cargill, Giulia, Rhea Ripley, Stephanie Vaquer, Bayley, Charlotte Flair, Alexa Bliss, Becky Lynch, and others, potentially setting up new rivalries.
As WWE navigates John Cena’s retirement, emerging stars, and fan expectations, the road to SummerSlam and beyond is poised to deliver unforgettable moments. Of course, this is provided the WWE creative team avoids overbooking and capitalizes on its deep roster.
