CM Punk Throws First Pitch at Wrigley Field Ahead of WWE SmackDown in Chicago

Chicago’s own CM Punk made a hometown statement before even stepping foot in the ring. On Friday afternoon, The Second City Saint took the mound at Wrigley Field to throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Chicago Cubs faced the Washington Nationals as part of the Cubs’ Hall of Fame weekend.

The timing couldn’t be more fitting. WWE SmackDown rolls into the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL tonight, where Punk is advertised to appear before what promises to be a raucous hometown crowd.

AJ Lee Return Buzz Heats Up

While Punk’s presence alone is enough to make the Chicago faithful erupt, speculation has reached a fever pitch around the possible return of his wife, AJ Lee. WWE hasn’t officially confirmed her, but with Punk locked in a high-profile feud with Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch, fans and insiders believe AJ’s name will at least be referenced — if not outright make her long-awaited return. With SmackDown airing live from her hometown, Chicago could be in for an unforgettable moment.

A Special Night in Chicago

Tonight's SmackDown already boasts a loaded lineup featuring John Cena, Sami Zayn, and more, but Punk’s hometown energy and the possibility of AJ Lee have pushed the anticipation into overdrive. The fact that Punk took part in a Chicago Cubs tradition at Wrigley Field earlier in the day only adds to the atmosphere of a city celebrating one of its own.

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CM Punk throwing out the first pitch in Chicago isn’t just a publicity stunt — it’s symbolic. It marks the start of what could be a defining night for him and possibly for AJ Lee. WWE knows Chicago fans are some of the loudest and most passionate in the world, and teasing the potential of AJ’s return only adds more fire. Whether she walks out tonight or not, her name is almost certain to echo throughout the Allstate Arena. This feels like one of those nights where WWE might just pull the trigger on a history-making moment.

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