WWE fans continue to cheer for the return of the prodigal son, CM Punk. With Survivor Series: WarGames taking place in Punk’s hometown of Chicago, speculation about his return is rampant. Now, a recent update to Punk’s WWE alumni profile is sending excitement into overdrive, as many believe it to be a sure-fire sign of his imminent return.
This latest update comes against the backdrop of a tumultuous period for CM Punk, who left AEW under a dark cloud following a backstage altercation. The incident led to his exit from his latest home, with the AEW President, Tony Khan, expressing a significant concern for safety – a sentiment that had never before been an issue in his long tenure in the wrestling industry. Punk’s departure was a dramatic fall from grace for the star, whose debut in AEW in 2021 was lauded as one of the landmark moments in modern pro-wrestling.
Previous reports suggest that WWE isn’t looking to sign Punk, hinting at a bridge burnt beyond repair despite Triple H’s insistence that he’s open to welcoming Punk back to WWE. However, the tide seems to have turned, and now, the very company that moved Punk from the active roster to the alumni roster without much fanfare in 2014 appears to be signaling a change in the air.
The timing of WWE’s subtle update is especially noteworthy as the aforementioned event, Survivor Series: WarGames is set for later this month, a PLE synonymous with career-defining moments. The stage is set in Chicago, a city that has an indelible connection to Punk, and the wrestling world is on edge, waiting to see if the Straight Edge Superstar will indeed make a grand homecoming.
Adding to the anticipation, fans have reported that WWE, particularly in the UK, has reissued DVDs featuring CM Punk’s photos on the cover, further fueling the narrative of his return. Social media is full of speculation, with the suggestions ranging from Punk’s return being heralded by a challenge from another wrestler, to the fantasy booking of interferences and rivalries reignited on day one of his return.
It’s difficult to deny Punk’s drawing power and his impact on the industry. Despite his reputation for his backstage ego, many believe that the structured environment of WWE, specifically under the guidance of Paul Heyman, could be the stabilizing factor needed for a successful comeback. Heyman’s history of advocating for and managing the business’ most complex personalities such as Brock Lesnar and Goldberg lends credibility to the idea that Punk could be reined in and his star power harnessed once again for the WWE universe.
As rumors of his return gather momentum, there’s no denying the potential financial windfall for WWE. Punk’s ability to move merchandise and draw audiences was evident during his time in AEW, and his return to WWE would likely see a surge in sales and ratings.
With its more rigid and structured approach to handling talent and a strong creative direction, WWE could provide the platform for Punk to not only make a comeback but to thrive.
However, amid all the excitement, it’s essential to approach these rumors with a degree of caution. Wrestling fans are well aware of the swerves. What seems like a surefire hint today could turn out to be a red herring tomorrow. But, with each piece of new evidence, the prospect of CM Punk stepping back into a WWE ring becomes ever more plausible.
Whether as a voice of the voiceless or a divisive figure backstage, bringing back CM Punk for one more reason could help reshape the landscape of WWE programming. If nothing else, he’d keep the ongoing rivalries interesting. Case in point, it’s starting to get old seeing The Judgment Day and/or The Bloodline reigning over Monday Night RAW and Friday Night SmackDown, respectively. Who better than to upend the established status quo and take on all comers, whether they’re faces or heels, than a guy who made a career calling out everybody?
Nevertheless, only time will tell if the stars align for the Best in the World to make his long-awaited return to the grand stage of WWE.
