A Shift in Creative Direction

According to BodySlam+, the initial script for the Raw closing segment involved Roman Reigns referencing the passing of CM Punk’s beloved dog, Larry. Larry, a rescue dog adopted from Paws Chicago in 2015, held a special place in Punk and AJ Lee’s lives, and the couple even organized a fundraiser for the animal shelter following his death in December 2025. The planned reference was intended as a direct response to Punk’s prior comments regarding Reigns’ late father, Sika Anoa’i.

The proposed storyline aimed for a “darker” tone, escalating the already heated rivalry. However, WWE ultimately opted for a different approach, with Reigns instead focusing on Punk’s age during their confrontation. This led to a physical altercation, culminating in Punk landing a punch on Reigns before security intervened.

The Significance of Larry

Larry wasn’t just a pet; he was a symbol of compassion and a testament to Punk and Lee’s commitment to animal welfare. His loss was deeply felt by the couple and their fans. The potential use of Larry’s passing as a storyline element highlights the willingness of WWE to explore sensitive subjects in pursuit of compelling narratives. Did You Know? Paws Chicago has helped find homes for over 60,000 animals since its founding in 1998.

Social media immediately lit up with speculation about a Larry reference following Punk’s initial remarks about Reigns’ family. The anticipation was palpable, suggesting the storyline had the potential to resonate deeply with the audience. The decision to pivot away from this path raises questions about the creative process and the factors influencing WWE’s choices.

WrestleMania 42 Looms Large

Despite the altered Raw segment, the rivalry between CM Punk and Roman Reigns remains at a fever pitch. The two are slated to compete for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 42 in April, with many expecting the match to headline night two of the event on Sunday, April 19th, though an official announcement is still pending. The stakes are incredibly high, and the personal nature of their feud promises a compelling and unforgettable showdown. What impact will this altered storyline have on the intensity of their WrestleMania match?

The change in direction begs the question: was this a strategic move to avoid crossing a line, or a last-minute adjustment based on audience reaction? The answer remains unclear, but one thing is certain: the animosity between Punk and Reigns is genuine, and their WrestleMania encounter is shaping up to be a must-see event.

Further fueling the narrative, WWE’s official Twitter account posted a video clip of the confrontation, emphasizing the ongoing conflict.

Things are FAR from over between @CMPunk and @WWERomanReigns! 🍿 pic.twitter.com/o6NpKTsG8U

— WWE (@WWE) March 17, 2026

The wrestling world continues to analyze every detail of this developing story, and the anticipation for WrestleMania 42 continues to build. Pro Tip:

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Reigns-Punk Rivalry

What was the original plan for the Roman Reigns and CM Punk segment on Raw?

The initial plan reportedly involved Roman Reigns referencing the passing of CM Punk’s dog, Larry, as a response to Punk’s comments about Reigns’ father.

Why did WWE change the planned ending for the Raw segment?

The reason for the change remains unknown, but speculation suggests it may have been to avoid a potentially controversial storyline or to adjust based on real-time audience reaction.

Who is Larry, and why is his name significant in this feud?

Larry was CM Punk and AJ Lee’s rescue dog who passed away in December 2025. He was a beloved companion, and his name carries emotional weight for Punk and his fans.

When and where is WrestleMania 42 taking place?

WrestleMania 42 is scheduled for April 2026, with the main event featuring CM Punk versus Roman Reigns expected to headline night two on Sunday, April 19th.

What is the nature of the championship match between CM Punk and Roman Reigns?

The two Superstars will be competing for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 42, marking a high-stakes clash between two of wrestling’s biggest names.

How has social media reacted to the altered Raw segment?

Social media was filled with anticipation for a reference to Larry, and many fans expressed disappointment when the segment took a different direction.