Tony Khan recently confirmed that CM Punk is making his AEW return on June 17th, for the debut episode of AEW Saturday Night Collision. This news was met with mixed reactions, as expected given the circumstances of CM Punk’s last appearance for AEW.
Punk had publicly berated The Elite during the media scrum following All Out 2022, which led to a backstage brawl – leading to mass suspensions. However, Punk is a major needle mover for AEW – and his return feud will be watched by many, and his first rival has potentially changed once again.
Interest From CM Punk In Feuding With Jay White
A report from Fightful Select would indicate that Punk has expressed interest in feuding with Jay White and Bullet Club Gold. This is a change from the previously reported plans that Punk would renew his rivalry from his Ring of Honor past against Samoa Joe. While this feud would be excellent given their history, a fresh opponent in Jay White is also a thrilling prospect.
Both Punk & White excel at promos and character work, something that White has only just begun to show since being signed to All Elite Wrestling.
Working with Punk would help White establish himself on the AEW roster, and show why his run in New Japan Pro Wrestling was so acclaimed. Feuding with Bullet Club Gold could also open the door for a dream match – that being between Punk & KENTA.
Punk vs. KENTA At Forbidden Door II Is A Likely Outcome
Issues between Punk & KENTA have a very simple root – that being Punk’s usage of the signature finisher of KENTA, the Go To Sleep.
KENTA was the man to innovate the manoeuvre, though many fans in the United States were first exposed to it when Punk used it in WWE. It’s hardly a major feud, and has played out more in the minds of fans – it provides a very simple path to a match at Forbidden Door II.
Set to take place later this month, Punk won’t have much time to set up a match for the PPV event. A match with a quick and easy build is needed to ensure that Punk doesn’t miss the PPV for a second time, previously set to face Hiroshi Tanahashi for the 2022 event but missing the event due to an ankle injury. KENTA has made it clear that he is free on June 17th, making this a very possible encounter.
Who do you hope to see Punk feud with upon his return to AEW? Let us know what you think in the comment section down below.
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