They say time heals all wounds, and that expression couldn’t be more true in the case of pro wrestling legend CM Punk. Known for his polarizing presence both inside and outside the ring, Punk has been a figure of intrigue and controversy for over two decades. Now, as he prepares for a return to Australia, he opens up about his journey and evolving relationships within the wrestling world.
Throughout his career, Punk has become a household name, rising from the independent scene in the early 2000s to becoming a six-time world champion with WWE. His matches against icons like John Cena, Jeff Hardy, and The Rock cemented his status, but it was his outspoken nature and willingness to defy norms that truly set him apart.
The Dramatic Exit and Unexpected Return
In January 2014, Punk’s abrupt departure from WWE shocked fans and insiders alike. His subsequent podcast tirade aired grievances and seemed to burn bridges with the company. For years, a return to wrestling seemed unlikely as Punk explored ventures like UFC.
However, the wrestling world was abuzz when Punk joined AEW, a move that reignited his career and allowed him to take a jab at WWE from afar. Yet, after a backstage altercation in 2023, Punk found himself at a crossroads again, leading to an unexpected WWE return at Survivor Series in Chicago, marking a new chapter in his storied career.
Rebuilding Bridges with Triple H
Central to Punk’s initial exit from WWE were his issues with Paul “Triple H” Levesque. Over time, however, the animosity faded, and Punk now finds himself working under Levesque, who has risen to a top executive position within WWE.
“I would say dream come true, but it’s honestly nothing either of us dreamed of,” Punk shared. “When things end badly in life, you don’t often get a chance to course correct. I don’t think either of us really have regrets because we’re here now in the moment, working together and loving every minute of it.”
“We’re the Paul Rudd meme, you know? Hey, look at us, who would have thought? Not me, it’s crazy.” – CM Punk
Looking Ahead: SummerSlam and Beyond
Punk’s second stint with WWE has already seen him fulfill a lifelong dream of main-eventing WrestleMania. Next, he sets his sights on SummerSlam, where he will challenge for a world title against Gunther. But perhaps more exciting for fans Down Under is his planned appearance at the Crown Jewel event in Perth, Australia.
“I came back to WWE and got hurt right out of the gate,” Punk reflected. “I was really disappointed because I was excited to go to Australia. Now we’re looking down the barrel of it again in October and I can’t wait to do that.”
Should Punk make the journey, it would be his first competition on Australian soil in nearly 15 years, a prospect that excites both him and his fans.
The WWE Unreal Series and Wrestling’s Inner Workings
In addition to his in-ring endeavors, Punk will feature in the upcoming Netflix series “WWE Unreal,” offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the wrestling industry. While some purists worry about revealing too much of the business’s inner workings, Punk sees potential for inspiration.
“I think fans can see a strength in that, draw from that, and be inspired by it.” – CM Punk
The series promises to showcase the challenges and triumphs of wrestlers, providing a humanizing glimpse into their lives beyond the spotlight.
As Punk continues to navigate his career’s ups and downs, his resilience and passion for wrestling remain undiminished. With new opportunities on the horizon, he embraces the future with optimism and a renewed sense of purpose.
