"I respect him a lot" - Wrestling owner would go 'hand-in-fist' to sign CM Punk to his company
CM Punk's future in pro wrestling seems to be up in the air right now, but some promotions are finally speaking out on whether he might sign anywhere outside of WWE.
Sadly for his fans, Punk was released from AEW in early September after his backstage fight with Jack Perry. Since then, many have called for him to return to WWE, but could the star shock fans and jump to a smaller promotion instead?
In a recent interview with Mat Men Pro Wrestling Podcast, NWA Owner Billy Corgan confirmed he hasn't reached out to CM Punk, but that he would love to have him in the promotion.
"Many, many people behind the scenes have asked me: should we make a play for Punk? The answer in terms of reaching out: no. Because I respect him a lot, he deserves top money, he's a top star. The NWA would go hand-over-fist to have Phil walk through the door and be a part of the NWA, even for a pay-per-view." [02:14 onward]
In light of the many discussions that Punk could end up jumping to IMPACT Wrestling, Fightful Select looked into the matter. According to their report, there are currently no talks, but the promotion is open to it. However, those close to Punk believe he might make the jump under the right circumstances.
Missed out on Saturday's AEW Collision? Catch up with the results right here.
Billy Corgan admits that NWA couldn't afford CM Punk, but that he'd have fun in the promotion
Many fans believe that it only makes sense for CM Punk to go to WWE in order to get a bigger paycheck, but perhaps the veteran has enough money by now. Continuing in the same interview, Billy Corgan implored the Second City Saint to have fun in NWA for the love of pro wrestling.
"That man loves professional wrestling; he may not love the professional wrestling business, but he loves professional wrestling."
"So my only appeal to Punk would be is: if you want to have some fun - I can't pay you what you're worth - but if you want to have some fun, come have some fun in the NWA." [03:56 onward]
Unfortunately for CM Punk, many fans are still against him, and many recently speculated that his potential signing could drive off many top WWE talent.
If you use any quotes from this article, please credit Mat Men Pro Wrestling and provide an H/T to Sportskeeda Wrestling for the transcription.