In an electrifying moment at the WWE live event held in Manchester, England on August 26, 2025, Roxanne Perez executed her signature finisher, the Pop Rox, on none other than CM Punk during the main event[2][3]. This unexpected maneuver caught the crowd by surprise and marked a significant moment in Roxanne’s rising WWE career, highlighting her growing confidence and evolving in-ring style.
A Pop Rox That Shocked the WWE Universe
The unexpected finishing move occurred in a high-profile tag team match featuring CM Punk teaming up with Sami Zayn and Penta against The Judgment Day faction. Roxanne Perez, aligned with the babyface side, seized the opportunity to deliver the Pop Rox directly to CM Punk, a moment that instantly became a talking point among fans and wrestling insiders alike[2][3].
Sources close to WWE describe this moment as a calculated move by the creative team to elevate Roxanne’s status by putting her over a legend in a controlled live environment. “They are clearly grooming Roxanne for bigger spotlight moments,” a WWE insider revealed. “Hitting Punk with the Pop Rox on a live show was a bold statement on her behalf to showcase her talent and presence.”
AJ Lee’s Heartfelt Reaction to Roxanne’s Bold Move
The in-ring moment carried extra emotional weight given Roxanne’s close relationship with AJ Lee, CM Punk’s wife and a WWE Hall of Famer herself. Roxanne tagged AJ on social media after the event, and AJ responded warmly, saying, “My daughter has never done a single thing wrong in her entire life,” putting to rest any speculation about backstage tension from hitting Punk with the move[1][4][5].
AJ Lee’s supportive comment highlights the familial and professional respect shared among them and reflects the calculated nature of the move rather than any real animosity. AJ’s endorsement also underscores Roxanne’s position as a trusted and rising star in WWE’s women’s division.
Roxanne Perez’s Heel Turn and Ambitions
In recent months, Roxanne Perez has focused on developing her character, particularly evolving her persona toward a more compelling heel role. In interviews, she confided that she’s been working hard to become the best villain she can be, emphasizing her determination to climb the WWE ranks quickly and effectively[1].
She admitted in a candid chat with Chris Van Vliet, “I don’t want to be eighty years old when I finally get that dream match with AJ. I want to get there sooner rather than later.” Roxanne’s ambition is clear, and moments like the Pop Rox on CM Punk are part of her mission to make a memorable impact as she pursues top-tier opportunities.
Potential Future Feuds and Championship Aspirations
With her stock rising, Roxanne Perez has voiced eagerness to challenge for high-profile titles. Recently on WWE RAW, she pitched the idea of either herself or Raquel Rodriguez facing Stephanie Vaquer for the WWE Women’s World Championship[1]. This suggests WWE’s creative team is keen to position Roxanne for a main event spot within the women’s division sooner rather than later.
Her rising prominence combined with impactful moments like the Manchester live event bode well for a possible push to championship status in the near future.
Fan and Insider Buzz After the Manchester Incident
Fans were quick to cheer Roxanne’s bold showing, and social media buzzed with clips and reactions of the moment. Wrestling media outlets highlighted the shock and excitement around a young talent standing tall over a veteran like CM Punk.
An insider commented, “This is the kind of moment that tells you Roxanne is being prepared as a future major star. You don’t get to hit Punk’s finisher on him casually; it’s a vote of confidence from the company.” The live crowd’s reaction in Manchester was overwhelmingly positive, signaling strong fan investment in Roxanne’s trajectory.
This defining live event moment has clearly set the stage for Roxanne Perez’s continued rise within WWE. Supported by the endorsement of AJ Lee and an enthusiastic fanbase, Roxanne’s blend of athleticism and character work is already making waves. The Pop Rox on CM Punk is more than just a finisher hit — it’s a symbolic passing of the torch and a shining herald of greater things to come for the young star.
WWE fans should keep a close eye on Roxanne Perez as she positions herself for championship runs and high-profile storylines in the months ahead. As backstage sources hint, the company’s confidence in her is growing rapidly, and Manchester’s live event might just be the launching pad.