CM Punk Reveals Why He Still Supports AEW Despite Controversial Departure

CM Punk’s arrival in AEW was met with tremendous enthusiasm, signaling a promising new phase in his storied career. However, his tenure with the company took an unforeseen turn, leading to his release last year. Despite the circumstances of his departure, Punk has recently explained why he still supports AEW and does not harbor any ill will toward the company.

In 2021, CM Punk’s debut in AEW was a groundbreaking event, establishing him as a major figure within the promotion. He reached the pinnacle of his AEW career by winning the AEW World Championship at Double or Nothing 2022. However, his reign was marred by injuries, including a torn triceps sustained during the controversial Brawl Out incident at AEW All Out 2022.

Despite these setbacks, Punk made a notable return in June 2023 as a key figure on AEW Collision. However, his time with AEW ended abruptly following a confrontation with Jack Perry, which led to the termination of his contract. After leaving AEW, CM Punk made an unexpected return to WWE at Survivor Series last year.

While speaking on the SI Media With Jimmy Traina podcast, CM Punk his perspective on his former company. He stated that he does not root against AEW. Punk explained that while it might be easy to wish for the company’s downfall, he recognizes that many people backstage depend on their jobs.

Punk stated that he still has friends working there and doesn’t want to see anyone lose their job. Punk views AEW as a different business from the one he is involved in and expressed that if someone can make a living there, they should take advantage of it.

“I don’t root against them. I think it’s easy to be able to say like, ‘Oh, can’t wait until something bad happens to them.’ But the reality is, there’s a lot of people backstage that earn a paycheck. I still have friends that work there, so it’s not like I’m hoping somebody loses their job or everybody loses their job or something like that.

It’s just — I look at it like it’s just not the same business that I’m in. And if you’re trying to get paid and you can go there, go get paid. Congratulations.”

With that said, CM Punk wasn’t a fan of AEW airing the All In backstage footage. CM Punk also distanced himself from AEW significantly, making it clear he wants no further association with the company. Despite this, both parties have now moved on from the situation, and that’s what truly matters.

What do you think of what CM Punk had to say about not rooting against AEW? Sound off in the comments section below!