CM Punk let his feelings be known on the November 27 broadcast of WWE Raw.
Although CM Punk made the shock return to WWE at Survivor Series in Chicago, the former AEW star did not address the live crowd during the broadcast. Instead, that was saved for 48 hours later.
Announced to appear on the fallout episode of Raw and promoted as having a live microphone for the first time in nearly 10 years, fans were of course intrigued to hear what was on Punk’s mind. This was especially true for anyone who watched Punk’s return promos in AEW, witnessing The Best in the World take shots as his former employer and AEW executives. With the circumstances in which Punk left AEW very fresh in fans’ minds, some were eagerly anticipating Punk to eviscerate his former employer. However, when all was said and done, those fans were likely left disappointed.
Receiving a warm welcome when “Cult of Personality” hit in the main event segment of the show, Punk grabbed a microphone and joked that hell froze over before saying 2 words that many had waited 10 years to hear, “I’m home.” Punk doubled down and thanked the fans who never forgot him even though there was a time when he wanted to forget himself.
Referencing his departure, Punk stated how “a wise man” told him that he needed to leave in order to come back. The former World Champion then discussed how he was welcomed backstage, with many asking about his wife AJ Lee, who Punk says sends her regards.
Revealing why he is back in WWE, Punk described how some of those who think they are the best in the ring, on the mic and behind the commentary desk are now afraid as the true Best in the World is back.
Just before the show went off the air, Punk delivered the line “I’m not here to make friends, I’m here to make money” directly to the camera. Crucially, there were no zingers or subtle references to anyone in AEW throughout the promo, with many feeling that the segment was tame by comparison to previous appearances.
More information has been provided regarding the timings and the content of the promo courtesy of PWInsider. It is mentioned that Punk was supposed to receive more airtime for his address but it had to be shortened as the match between Randy Orton and Dominik Mysterio went over time. It is noted that this was something that regularly happens on WWE TV and was nothing intentional.
In regards to Punk mentioning his wife AJ Lee, right now there are no plans to bring Lee in as an active performer as she has retired from in-ring competition. However, a cameo appearance is not out of the question.
Following the appearance, a new report has revealed the backstage reaction to CM Punk in WWE.
Tony Khan Provides No Comment On CM Punk
During a recent interview, Punk’s former boss Tony Khan was asked about the events that took place at Survivor Series. Effectively providing no comment on the matter, Tony Khan would not elaborate on the news that CM Punk is back in WWE.