CM Punk: His WWE Exit, FOX Deal & What's Next

Let's dive into the world of CM Punk, a name synonymous with wrestling rebellion and unexpected career turns. From his infamous WWE exit to his surprising stint with FOX, and the burning question of what he's up to now, we're unpacking it all for you guys.

The CM Punk WWE Saga: A Bitter End

Ah, the WWE and CM Punk saga – a tale as old as time, or at least as old as the internet wrestling community. It all started with so much promise. Punk, with his 'pipe bomb' promos and 'Best in the World' persona, was a breath of fresh air in a company often criticized for being too corporate and predictable. He connected with fans on a deeper level, representing the disenchanted and the ones who felt like outsiders. His 434-day reign as WWE Champion was legendary, a testament to his popularity and in-ring prowess.

But like all good things, it came to an end – and not a pretty one. The relationship between Punk and WWE soured, plagued by creative differences, health issues, and a general sense of dissatisfaction on Punk's part. He felt like his potential was being squandered, that the company wasn't listening to his ideas, and that his body was breaking down under the relentless schedule. The final straw came in January 2014, when Punk walked out on the company, just before the Royal Rumble. It was a move that shocked the wrestling world and left fans wondering what had happened.

The aftermath was messy, to say the least. WWE initially remained silent about Punk's departure, fueling speculation and rumors. Eventually, they officially announced his release in June 2014, on his wedding day, no less – a move that many saw as petty and vindictive. Punk, for his part, remained largely silent, except for a tell-all interview on Colt Cabana's podcast, where he aired his grievances against WWE and its medical staff. The interview was explosive, filled with accusations of negligence, mistreatment, and a general lack of respect. It painted a picture of a man who felt betrayed and used by the company he had poured his heart and soul into.

The legal battles that followed only added fuel to the fire. WWE's Dr. Chris Amann sued Punk and Cabana for defamation, claiming that the podcast interview had damaged his reputation. The trial was a circus, with embarrassing details about WWE's medical practices being revealed. In the end, Punk and Cabana won the case, but the whole ordeal left a lasting scar on everyone involved. The CM Punk WWE story is a cautionary tale about the perils of fame, the importance of creative control, and the often-turbulent relationship between wrestlers and the companies they work for. It's a story that continues to resonate with fans, who still wonder what could have been if things had gone differently.

CM Punk's FOX Chapter: Analyst and Agitator

After years away from the wrestling spotlight, CM Punk made a surprising return to the FOX network as an analyst for WWE Backstage. This move was unexpected, to say the least, considering his acrimonious departure from WWE. Fans were curious – what would he say? Would he hold back? Would he bury everyone? The answer, as it turned out, was a little bit of everything.

Punk's role on WWE Backstage was interesting. He wasn't afraid to speak his mind, offering his honest opinions on the current product. Sometimes, he was critical, pointing out flaws in storylines or character development. Other times, he was complimentary, praising wrestlers he felt were deserving of recognition. He brought a unique perspective to the show, one that was both informed and unfiltered. He wasn't just a talking head; he was a fan who cared about the product and wanted to see it improve. But the big question remained: What was his true agenda?

Of course, Punk couldn't resist taking a few jabs at WWE from time to time. He would occasionally make sarcastic comments or poke fun at certain wrestlers, which only added to the intrigue. It was clear that he still had some unresolved issues with the company, but he also seemed to enjoy being back in the wrestling world, even if it was just as an observer. However, the FOX deal was short-lived. WWE Backstage was canceled in 2020 due to budget cuts related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Punk's time on the show was brief, but it was memorable. He proved that he still had a passion for wrestling and that he wasn't afraid to speak his mind, even if it meant ruffling a few feathers. It also showed that anything is possible in the world of professional wrestling, even a reconciliation between CM Punk and WWE – or at least a temporary truce.

What's Next for CM Punk? The Rumor Mill Churns

So, what is CM Punk doing now? That's the million-dollar question, isn't it? After his FOX gig ended, the rumor mill went into overdrive. Would he return to wrestling? Would he pursue other ventures? The answer, as always, is complicated. Punk has always been a man of many talents and interests. He's a comic book writer, an actor, and a mixed martial artist, among other things. He's never been one to be pigeonholed, and he's always been willing to try new things.

There have been whispers of a return to wrestling, of course. Fans have been clamoring for it for years, and Punk himself has hinted at it on occasion. But he's also been adamant that he would only return under the right circumstances. He wants to be challenged creatively, he wants to be paid what he's worth, and he wants to work for a company that respects him. Whether that company is WWE, AEW, or some other organization remains to be seen. As of right now, CM Punk is wrestling for AEW.

Beyond wrestling, Punk has been keeping busy with other projects. He's continued to write comic books, and he's appeared in a few movies and TV shows. He's also been involved in various charitable endeavors. He seems content with his life outside of wrestling, but it's clear that he still has a passion for the business. Whether he ever returns to the ring full-time is anyone's guess, but one thing is for sure: CM Punk will always be a name that resonates with wrestling fans. He's a rebel, an iconoclast, and one of the most fascinating figures in the history of professional wrestling. Whatever he does next, it's sure to be interesting.

In conclusion, CM Punk's journey through WWE and FOX has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. From his meteoric rise and controversial exit from WWE to his surprising stint as an analyst on FOX, he's kept fans guessing every step of the way. And as for what's next? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: the world will be watching.