On May 31st wrestling’s worst-kept secret was finally confirmed, CM Punk is returning to AEW.
Punk has been absent since speaking out against the Young Bucks, Kenny Omega, Hangman Adam Page, and Colt Cabana at the post-All Out media scrum in September. His comments sparked a brawl backstage involving himself, Ace Steel, and The Elite.
At the time it appeared it would be difficult for Punk to come back, but in wrestling, nothing is impossible.
On Dynamite, Tony Khan announced that Punk will be back for the debut episode of Collision on June 17th live at the United Center in Chicago. His return had been all but confirmed a week earlier when it was revealed that AEW will be heading to the site of Punk’s AEW debut.
In response to the news, Punk shared a clip on his Instagram stories from the 1995 film Billy Madison where Adam Sandler plays an adult who goes back to school. During a scene centred around a game of dodgeball, the main character tells a group of kids they’re in “big, big trouble” before demolishing them in the game.
Punk’s story. The link leads to this video. He’s ready. #AEWDynamitepic.twitter.com/VnxJmbfyfQ
— Kiley | Fightful Overbooked (@KileyWrestling) June 1, 2023
Dax Harwood Sends Message Of Support To CM Punk
Following the news, Dax Harwood celebrated the announcement on social media, while Brody King shared his own positive reaction.
Despite the positive reactions from some, it had been reported in recent weeks that a number of AEW stars would have been “relieved” if Punk never returned to AEW.