Whoever prevails in the World Heavyweight Championship Match between reigning titleholder CM Punk and his challenger Batista, one thing is irrefutable: That man will have earned it.

The Straightedge Superstar’s road to World Heavyweight Gold took him through a classic Money in the Bank Match at WrestleMania XXIV against some of WWE’s toughest opponents, including Mr. Kennedy, Chris Jericho and John Morrison. Mr. Money in the Bank then keenly cashed in his contract on Raw against Edge – who had ironically been wounded by The Animal moments before Punk’s opportunistic move.

For his part, former World Heavyweight Champion Batista prevailed over John Cena, JBL and Kane in a brutal Fatal Four Way Match to earn the No. 1 contender spot.

Before the match, The Animal offered Punk a show of respect, shaking his hand and even telling him that he deserved the title, then made his intentions unmistakably clear: Batista will let nothing stand in the way of him recapturing his title.

When these two fierce competitors clash, can the Straightedge Superstar draw on his quickness and agility to overcome? Or will The Animal’s distinct size and strength advantage prove too much for the reigning champion to surmount? Check out The Great American Bash, live and only on pay-per-view.

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