Curtis Axel Defends CM Punk’s Attitude Amid Negative Reputation Claims

CM Punk has been back in the fold since his return at the 2023 Survivor Series and he is universally beloved by his peers now. While there are many who feel he still has a negative reputation in the business, former WWE star Curtis Axel has come to Punk’s defense.

While speaking on Monte and The Pharaoh, Curtis Axel was asked about CM Punk’s negative reputation in professional wrestling. Axel defended CM Punk by responding to criticism from people who say Punk is hard to work with. Axel said Punk has helped him a lot in his career and talked about their tough battles around the world. He stated that he has a lot of respect for Punk and all he’s done.

Axel admitted CM Punk’s attitude might bother some people, but he thinks it’s necessary in wrestling. He noted that one needs to be confident and have a tough mindset to succeed, and Punk has always had that.

“He helped me out a lot—a lot. I’m friends with him; he’s helped me, and we’ve been boys. We’ve had battles—hardcore battles—all over the world, and he’s been nothing but helpful to me. I know people say he has a bad reputation because of his attitude and all that, but you kind of have to have that in this industry, you know? You need that ‘don’t give a damn’ attitude and just go for it, just do you.

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If you don’t have that self-confidence, that belief that ‘Hey, I’m better than you,’ then you’re going to fail. Punk’s always had that, and I honestly have nothing but respect for him.“

Curtis Axel added that he would love to face The Second City Saint again someday. He mentioned their connection as “Heyman guys” and hinted that something interesting might be happening between them in the future.

“He’s helped me, and I’d love to fight him again. We’ve had some battles, and, well, we’re both Heyman guys, so it’s kind of weird. You know, something’s stirring in the water.”

Even Trick Williams denied claims of CM Punk having a negative reputation in pro wrestling as his experience with Punk has always been positive. Nonetheless, CM Punk has a lot of people who respect him and that is unlikely to change anytime soon.

Please credit Ringside News if you use the above transcript in your publication.