In a shocking twist that sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, CM Punk has made a glorious return to WWE after an absenteeism of nine years. The iconic and divisive professional wrestling star made a jaw-dropping appearance at the end of the WWE Survivor Series show in Chicago, his hometown, in what was a closely guarded secret.
Punk’s “Cult of Personality” entrance theme echoed through the arena after the main event, marking his unanticipated arrival. The crowd erupted in disbelief as CM Punk, known for his signature pose, knelt down and exclaimed, “It’s clobberin’ time!”
This unexpected comeback follows CM Punk’s departure from All Elite Wrestling (AEW), WWE’s primary competitor, where he was released for cause in August after a backstage altercation with wrestler Jack Perry. Despite a tumultuous two-year stint in AEW, marred by injuries and behind-the-scenes drama, CM Punk remained a two-time AEW world champion and a significant draw for the promotion.
While the creative direction for Punk’s return to WWE remains uncertain, the wrestling community and beyond are abuzz with anticipation. Punk, considered one of the industry’s supreme stars in the past two decades, brings a charming presence that spurs chats and debates.
Speaking at a post-event news conference, WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque acknowledged the spontaneity of Punk’s return, describing it as a “lightning-in-a-bottle moment” that came together swiftly. Despite any past controversies, Levesque expressed excitement about Punk’s return, emphasizing his influence as a conversation starter.
Punk’s departure from WWE in 2014 was marked by strained relations, leaving on bad terms due to health issues and receiving news of his firing on his wedding day. After a stint in the UFC and a seven-year hiatus from wrestling, Punk made a surprising return to the ring with AEW in 2021.
The history between Punk and WWE’s doctor, Chris Amann, resulted in a defamation lawsuit after Punk made critical comments about his treatment on a podcast in 2014. Additionally, personal issues between Punk and Levesque during Punk’s initial tenure in WWE were known.
Levesque, addressing the changes over the past decade, stated that everyone evolves and grows. The postulation of what lies ahead for CM Punk in this transformed landscape adds an extra layer of intrigue, with Levesque expressing genuine curiosity about Punk’s next chapter.
