3 Reasons WWE Added a Stipulation to CM Punk vs. Kevin Owens on SmackDown Next Week

CM Punk is set to face Kevin Owens in a high-profile match on the upcoming episode of SmackDown. This rivalry has reached a whole new level as both superstars are willing to tear each other apart. Owens and Punk were slated to lock horns in a standard match initially. However, WWE added a blockbuster stipulation to their upcoming match this week on SmackDown.

The two superstars will now face off in a No Holds Barred match in Brooklyn, New York, next week. This addition of this stipulation has raised a lot of eyebrows, with many fans wondering the reason behind the move. Kevin Owens and CM Punk still seem to have a lot of unfinished business. However, the two stars getting a stipulation match this early raises many questions.

Here are three reasons why WWE added a stipulation to Owens vs. Punk on SmackDown:

#3. To highlight their deep-rooted animosity

The tension between CM Punk and Kevin Owens has escalated far beyond the standard competition or a basic fight over a championship. Both superstars despise each other to their core. They took many bitter shots at each other over the past two months, digging out one another’s vulnerable past. Well, a standard singles match with strict rules, countouts and disqualifications would feel inadequate to contain the two rivals who genuinely hate one another.

By adding a No Holds Barred stipulation, WWE seemingly wants to highlight the deep animosity between Punk and Owens. Triple H intends to show that this hatred cannot be governed by traditional ring-officiated boundaries. The No Holds Barred stipulation therefore gives both men free hands to channel their rage and utilize weapons. Kevin Owens and CM Punk can unleash havoc without any referee interventions holding things back.

#2. To mark an end to CM Punk and Kevin Owens’ feud

When two main-event stars engage in a multi-month, high-intensity storyline, WWE often requires a definitive closure to wrap up their feud. CM Punk and Kevin Owens have been feuding with each other since the post-SummerSlam period. The two men cost each other championship opportunities, were involved in backstage altercations, and brawled at numerous shows. Things have now reached a boiling point and WWE seemingly wants to put an end to it.

Leaving the conclusion of such a high-profile program to a normal standard match would leave fans unsatisfied and why not? As a result, Triple H may have decided to introduce a No Holds Barred stipulation. It serves as the ultimate battleground where no excuses can be made after the final bell rings. The lack of restrictions ensures that one man will definitely overpower the other, putting a definitive end to this blockbuster feud on SmackDown next week.

#1. Planning a jaw-dropping spot for the finish

Another major reason WWE added such a marquee stipulation is that the company could be planning a shocking finish to Kevin Owens and CM Punk’s match. The upcoming episode of SmackDown will be the go-home edition for Crown Jewel and WWE needs a moment that could set the internet abuzz. The company often uses blockbuster stipulation matches to deliver a jaw-dropping finish that sends shockwaves across the WWE Universe.

Well, it’s no secret that both Punk and Owens are known for their willingness to deliver jaw-dropping spots. The No Holds Barred environment provides the exact canvas required for a chaotic and shocking climax. For a show that takes place at Barclays Center, WWE goes all out to deliver an unforgettable night. Hence, the main purpose behind adding such a big stipulation is to set the stage for a massive finish that may take fans’ breath away.

Edited by Subhasish Deb