Paul Heyman Explains Why CM Punk Had to ‘Go Through Hell’ for WWE Return

CM Punk’s arrival in AEW was met with tremendous enthusiasm, signaling a promising new phase in his storied career. However, his exit from AEW was shrouded in controversy and Paul Heyman stated that Punk needed to go through hell before his WWE return.

In 2021, CM Punk’s debut in AEW was a major event, marking him as a significant presence in the promotion. He reached the height of his AEW career by winning the AEW World Championship at Double or Nothing 2022. However, his title reign was troubled by injuries, including a torn triceps from the infamous Brawl Out incident at AEW All Out 2022.

Despite these challenges, Punk made a strong comeback in June 2023, becoming a central figure on AEW Collision. But his AEW journey ended suddenly after a clash with Jack Perry, leading to his contract being terminated. After leaving AEW, CM Punk made a surprise return to WWE at Survivor Series last year.

While speaking to NotSamWrestling, Paul Heyman was asked about CM Punk’s WWE return and why it mattered. Paul Heyman stated that CM Punk had to go through hell before returning to WWE, referring to Punk’s challenging time in AEW. Heyman emphasizes that Punk’s struggles were necessary for him to earn his place back at the top of WWE.

“It’s destiny. CM Punk is back where he belongs, and that’s on top in WWE. Like any other rebel, you know the old saying: you have to go through hell before you get to heaven. CM Punk’s struggle is real, and he remains a rebel to this day. But a rebel will never reach the top or get his due on his own merit without going through pure, blatant, bloody hell. That hell wasn’t just in WWE; he had to endure it elsewhere[AEW] as well. Everybody had to see it, hear about it and know about it and sit there and go ‘My God, will somebody please one time give this talented man the platform that he deserves it’s been over 20 years now that he’s been on the national stage and he still doesn’t get a chance to demonstrate his greatness. He finally has the chance to step out from the hell he’s been enduring.”

Even Drew McIntyre understands why CM Punk had to return to WWE despite his past controversies. Regardless, CM Punk is more than happy to be back in the fold in WWE and that’s all that matters in the end.

What’s your view on what Paul Heyman had to say about CM Punks having to go through hell before his WWE return? Do you feel it was truly necessary? Sound off in the comments section below!

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