On August 20th, 2021, CM Punk walked down the ramp at the United Center in Chicago to make one of the more unlikely wrestling comebacks in recent history.
For years the star had been adamant that he was done with wrestling, but with the rise of AEW, he was tempted back to the squared circle. Fast forward two years and Punk is looking to repeat the trick.
If Punk’s AEW debut was dubbed “The First Dance,” his next appearance could represent an encore.
Following an explosive press conference and backstage brawl after All Out in September 2022, many thought Punk would never wrestle for AEW again. However, he now appears on the verge of another comeback with creative plans reportedly being made.
The exact date of Punk’s return is yet to be confirmed by AEW, but multiple reports have given an insight into when fans will see the star back in action. When it was reported that the “wheels were in motion” regarding a comeback, it was noted that he would likely be back on or around June 21st, when AEW holds Dynamite at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago.
Interestingly, a further report has stated he that will be back on June 17th, which as many eagle-eyed fans will be quick to point out is a Saturday. It is believed that when the former World Champion steps back onto AEW television he will do so as the star of their new Saturday show.
Writing in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer notes that Punk’s comeback on June 17th could well be the launch of the new show.
“As things stand right now, the return of C.M. Punk is scheduled for a 6/17 show at the United Center in Chicago, which being a Saturday night show, is likely the debut of the new weekly show.”
Warner Bros Discovery Influential In CM Punk’s Return
In his report on CM Punk, Meltzer also noted that Warner Bros Discovery, AEW’s broadcast partner had been influential in the star coming back. While the media giant’s exact influence is unclear, Meltzer adds that Punk is “very significant in everything” regarding the new show.