CM Punk was recently bestowed with the prestigious Iron Mike Mazurki Award at the Cauliflower Alley Club banquet held in Las Vegas and discussed the internet wrestling community’s criticisms of him.
The ceremony, attended by wrestling legends and industry insiders, recognized Punk’s significant contributions to the world of wrestling. However, it was Punk’s impassioned 45-minute speech that stole the show, as he confronted the criticisms he often faces from the internet wrestling community.
During his address, Punk eloquently expressed his thoughts on the subjective nature of wrestling and the often harsh judgment he receives from online fans and critics. He highlighted the legends of wrestling’s past that took a shine to him and how that gave him the confidence to succeed in the world of wrestling.
When people tell me that they don’t like me or that the internet is mad at me, I just chuckle because Roddy Piper liked me. Dusty Rhodes liked me and Harley Race liked me. And that means more than anything else in the world because these legends put their stamp on me before anyone else did. It gave me the confidence and it gave me the ability to succeed.
Punk’s speech resonated with the audience, as he emphasised the need for wrestlers to focus on their own growth and personal journeys rather than seeking validation from others.
Is CM Punk Suspended From AEW?
According to multiple sources, CM Punk has been suspended from AEW. Punk was involved in a physical altercation with Jack Perry moments before he went out for his match with Samoa Joe which led to his and Perry’s suspension.
This suspension has reportedly forced changes to be made to the upcoming AEW All Out card, as the event is taking place in CM Punk’s hometown of Chicago and he was expected to appear at the event prior to being suspended.
During the same speech, Punk compared his early days at WWE to being at high school.
H/t to Slamwrestling.net