Major report on CM Punk's WWE future ahead of comeback anniversary
WWE and CM Punk shocked the wrestling world almost 11 months ago as the hometown star returned to the Stamford-based promotion to close out the 37th annual Survivor Series PLE. The comeback has had its ups and downs, but Punk remains relevant with a promising future in the company. Sources have revealed new details on the future of the former AEW World Champion.
The Second City Saint reportedly inked a three-year deal upon returning, to keep him locked in until at least November 2026. The two sides began negotiating an upgraded contract earlier this year, with a raise and a longer commitment, as a way to pay Punk better for things like merchandise and social engagement. Officials approached Punk about renegotiating, not the other way around, and this was described as not a case of Punk trying to get more out of World Wrestling Entertainment.
Punk and company officials were hoping to agree on "something more expansive" when they began renegotiating earlier this year, according to an update from Fightful Select. Punk's original deal, which isn't even one year old yet, was put together somewhat abruptly, and since then the circumstances surrounding Punk in WWE have changed. This is why WWE approached Punk with the idea to get him signed to a proper deal.
It was once again reiterated by sources how officials are "very happy" with Punk being back. The source added that everything has gone well so far with the former AEW World Champion being back, despite the injury issues.
Backstage sources have also often reiterated how officials are satisfied with having Punk back on the roster, while also being described as being extremely happy with his attitude, drawing power, merchandise sales, and commitment. There has been talk of Punk ending his career with WWE, and potentially leading the NXT brand and developmental system someday, similar to what Shawn Michaels does now as the Senior Vice President of Talent Development Creative.
WWE return updates on CM Punk and Drew McIntyre
World Wrestling Entertainment brought back Bad Blood on October 5, which opened with CM Punk winning the 1-1 tie-breaker in his rivalry against Drew McIntyre. Punk won inside Hell in a Cell, which came after he won a Strap Match at Bash in Berlin, and McIntyre won at SummerSlam with Seth Rollins as special referee.
Despite rumors, sources report that Punk and McIntyre are not scheduled for WWE Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia on November 2. They are both expected back in the storylines by mid-to-late November if everything goes as planned.
Punk was accused of working dangerously with McIntyre. He appeared on the post-Bad Blood RAW and teased that he was saying goodbye to the WWE Universe. McIntyre has been away since the Hell in a Cell loss as he needed 16 staples to close a head wound.