CM Punk Urges NXT Talent to Embrace the Present Ahead of CW Network Transition

The highly anticipated launch of WWE NXT on the CW Network is set for October 1st, and CM Punk will be front and center for the historic event. One of the marquee matches for the night is Trick Williams challenging Ethan Page for the NXT Championship, with Punk stepping into the ring as the special guest referee.

Punk’s involvement with NXT has been more than just a one-time appearance. He’s been a frequent presence at WWE’s Performance Center in Orlando, offering his expertise and guidance to the up-and-coming talent. In a recent interview with WREG, Punk opened up about how much he enjoys his time at NXT, comparing it to a “fountain of youth” where he gets to relive his days in developmental.

Reflecting on his journey through OVW, Punk noted that he didn’t always get the chance to fully appreciate his time in developmental because of his career-driven focus. Now, working with NXT, he finds himself soaking in the experience more, encouraging younger talents to embrace the present instead of constantly looking ahead. He shared his thoughts on the importance of NXT and the advice he gives to its talent:

“If you’re a wrestling fan, you wanna get in on this era of NXT on CW because this is—you know, we all like to say, ‘Oh, this is the future. This is the future of SmackDown and Raw and WrestleMania.’ But I think NXT’s its own thing and I try to tell all the kids that are down there, ‘I know the goal is, you know, grab the bag. Get to Raw, get to SmackDown. You want to be on the PLEs and all that stuff.’ But I think they have such a special thing down there for NXT that I really want them to try to live in the present and enjoy the time there, because I know I look fondly upon my time in developmental in OVW and it’s almost like when I go down to NXT, it’s the fountain of youth because I get to kind of relive those days and really enjoy things that I was maybe too career-focused to the future that I couldn’t enjoy all the present.”

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For wrestling fans, Punk’s message is clear—NXT isn’t just a stepping stone to the main roster. It’s a unique platform that allows future stars to hone their craft, and the CW Network launch marks a pivotal moment for the brand. Punk believes that NXT is more than just a “breeding ground” for Raw, SmackDown, or WrestleMania. Instead, it’s an entity unto itself that’s worth watching and celebrating.

“Wrestling fans, this is where it all begins. This is like the breeding ground for us, so tune in, CW, NXT, October 1st,” Punk urged, underscoring the significance of the brand’s next chapter.

As Punk prepares to don the referee stripes for the Trick Williams vs. Ethan Page title match, his presence adds a layer of excitement to the launch. Fans can expect an electric atmosphere as NXT takes center stage on the CW Network.