Even though he hasn’t been in the promotion for months, CM Punk and AEW remain intrinsically linked.
Despite ushering in the most successful era in the promotion’s history, and becoming a two-time World Champion, Punk’s All Elite Wrestling legacy was tarnished following his scorched earth promo at the All Out press conference.
After winning the title for the second time, Punk sensationally sat down at the post-event presser and tore into the promotion, its leadership and the backstage atmosphere as a shocked audience and Tony Khan looked on.
The fallout from Punk’s harsh words, which saw him and the Elite suspended is still a major and controversial talking point.
Recently Punk’s quickly deleted social media post, in which spoke candidly about his match with Jon Moxley, called Dave Meltzer a liar and Chris Jericho a stooge caused a whirlwind throughout the wrestling world.
The news even caused the usually stoic Moxley to address the situation on Renee Paquette’s The Sessions.
Now, the iconic JR has spoken on the subject of CM Punk. On the latest episode of his Grilling JR podcast, Ross spoke about the upcoming inter-promotional pay-per-view Forbidden Door 2023 and how the company need the controversial star to return.
“I think it sold out. Rafael [Morffi] called me, and I said, ‘How are things going, tickets sales wise?’ He mentioned to me that the Toronto show had sold out. That’s good. Good for the home team. All good stuff, baby. But anyway, sell-outs, good. Anytime you get a sell out, you’re doing something right. I think we’re doing something right. I just got a feeling that big things are on the way.
Getting everybody healthy again and back on the roster again is important. Of course, the whole question is gonna center around [will] CM Punk ever be back. I’m one of those guys that believe he will be back. We’ll see. I think AEW needs CM Punk because of his star power, and he brings… with controversy creates cash, and he’s certainly controversial. I’m a big fan of Phil’s. We’ll see how it works out. I’m optimistic and positive.”
Will CM Punk Ever Return To AEW?
Ever since his departure, there has been speculation surrounding CM Punk’s return to AEW and if it will happen. According to further reports Tony Khan has held multiple talks with him in order to rebuild bridges and bring the former World Champion back to the promotion.