CM Punk, an acclaimed American professional wrestler, actor, and former mixed martial artist, is currently part of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), competing on the Raw brand. Since beginning his WWE career in 2005, he swiftly rose to stardom, capturing numerous championships and engaging in high-profile rivalries with iconic figures like John Cena, Bryan Danielson (formerly Daniel Bryan), Brock Lesnar, Chris Jericho, The Undertaker, Jeff Hardy, Rey Mysterio, and Ryback.
The 6 ft 2 in grappler is perhaps best remembered for delivering the famous "pipebomb" promo, a scripted segment that Punk elevated to legendary status by blurring the lines between fiction and reality. Though it was a defining moment in his career, it ultimately led to his departure from WWE. After leaving the company, Punk made a highly anticipated comeback to professional wrestling by signing with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). However, his tenure with AEW was cut short when he was released from the company after being involved in a real-life backstage clash with "Jungle Boy" Jack Perry, which eventually led him to re-sign with WWE.
Is CM Punk a babyface or a heel?
Since making his return at Survivor Series: WarGames 2023, CM Punk has emerged as WWE's leading babyface. His current storyline revolves around a heated feud with "The Scottish Psychopath" Drew McIntyre. The animosity between them ignited at the 2024 Royal Rumble when Drew deliberately injured Punk, sidelining him for five months.
The rivalry intensified at WrestleMania 40, where McIntyre mocked Punk while celebrating his World Heavyweight Championship victory over Seth ‘Freakin’ Rollins. This provocation led to an early assault by Punk, which resulted in McIntyre losing his title on the same night to Damian Priest. At SummerSlam 2024, Punk lost to McIntyre but later triumphed in a strap match at the 2024 Bash in Berlin. The final showdown of their intense rivalry is set to unfold in a dramatic Hell in a Cell match at Bad Blood 2024.
Prior to his WWE return, Punk was a prominent face in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), making his inaugural appearance on August 20, 2021. During his stint, he became a two-time AEW World Champion and was involved in noteworthy feuds with top AEW talents, including Samoa Joe, Ricky Starks, and especially, MJF.
CM Punk On-Screen Character History
CM Punk’s on-screen character has undergone several significant shifts between heel and face alignments throughout his career.
| Character | Start | End | Promotion |
| Face | November 25, 2023 | Present | WWE |
| Face | August 20, 2021 | August 27, 2023 | AEW |
| Face | June 17, 2013 | January 26, 2014 | WWE |
| Heel | July 23, 2012 | June 16, 2013 | |
| Face | July 17, 2011 | July 22, 2012 | |
| Heel | June 28, 2009 | July 16, 2011 | |
| Face | September 21, 2005 | June 27, 2009 | |
| Heel | June 18, 2005 | September 20, 2005 | NWA-TNA & ROH |
| Face | February 1, 2005 | June 17, 2005 | |
| Heel | March 15, 2003 | January 31, 2005 | |
| Face | March 13, 1999 | March 14, 2003 | IWA Mid-South, NWA-TNA & ROH |
CM Punk's Real Name
Phillip Jack Brooks is the real name of CM Punk. He was born on October 26, 1978, in Chicago, Illinois, United States. He was raised by his parents alongside his five siblings in nearby Lockport, Illinois. Inspired by the late Canadian professional wrestler "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, he pursued wrestling during his time at Lockport Township High School in his hometown.
CM Punk Ring Names
CM Punk has employed his current moniker throughout his two-decade wrestling career, from his early days with IWA Mid-South to his time in WWE. He is also renowned for his famous and extreme nicknames, such as “The Second City Saint”, "The Straight Edge Superstar," "The Straight Edge Savior," "The Voice of the Voiceless," and "The Best in the World." Additionally, his entrance theme, "Cult of Personality" by Living Colour, is regarded as one of the most electrifying and coolest themes ever in the wrestling world.
FAQ's On CM Punk Face or Heel Turns
A. CM Punk and AJ Lee are still together as a married couple.
A. CM Punk was trained by Ace Steel, Danny Dominion, Dave Taylor, Fit Finlay, Inoki Dojo, Kevin Quinn, and William Regal.
A. CM Punk has dated wrestlers Beth Phoenix, Kelly Kelly, Mickie James, and Maria Kanellis.
A. CM Punk has a Pepsi tattoo because he enjoys the beverage and finds its design visually appealing.
A. CM Punk pipebomb was planned but he took the promo to the next level.
