We’re getting extremely close to the in-ring return of CM Punk in professional wrestling. The two time AEW World Champion has been out of action since All Out 2022 – suffering a torn tricep and suspension on that night, keeping him away from TV.
Since then, it’s been speculated upon if Punk will be returning to AEW TV or not, given the tension between Punk & key roster members like Kenny Omega. Punk himself might be looking at other options – being seen backstage at tonight in Chicago for WWE Monday Night RAW.
CM Punk Spotted Backstage At WWE Event
With the show taking place in Punk’s hometown, he was spotted backstage at the Allstate Arena. This is the venue where Punk defeated John Cena to win the WWE Championship at Money in the Bank 2011 – making it an important building in his career. Punk was notably seen speaking to The Miz & Triple H backstage at the venue.
Punk’s business with The Miz was likely squashing any resentment after a social media squabble following Miz’s involvement in WWE events in Saudi Arabia. Triple H is the more interesting figure at this time – being the current head of creative in WWE.
He calls most of the shots in terms of the companies direction, which would include a returning superstar like CM Punk. Punk was also seen speaking to other names like Tamina, before being asked to leave as preparations for Monday Night RAW picked up. He left without incident.
Working To Build Up Hype For Upcoming AEW Return
Given the rocky history of CM Punk with both The Miz & Triple H behind the scenes, it’s hard to place a motive with this visit. It is not uncommon for wrestlers to be at shows to support or visit their friends – but that doesn’t seem to be the case with Punk tonight.
The leading theory is that this is just another way for Punk to increase chatter ahead of a potential AEW return – which is currently scheduled for June 21st, when AEW returns to Chicago.
A simple but effective publicity stunt by Punk & Tony Khan – which has Punk the talk of the wrestling world on Monday Night, a time normally full of WWE chatter. This move left WWE & AEW talent shocked, but could be a step in creating a ‘loose cannon’ type character for Punk upon his return.
There is potential for Punk to return to WWE following the expiration of his AEW contract, but all current signs point to Punk finishing his deal with AEW.
Upon his return, he is expected to feud with Chris Jericho – with any plans involving Punk & The Elite still unlikely at best.
Do you think CM Punk will ever return to WWE? Let us know what you think in the comment section down below.
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