CM Punk is back in WWE, calling it “home.” However, his journey with the promotion has been anything but smooth. Infamous for his candid remarks and dramatic exits, Punk’s career has been a rollercoaster of controversies. Currently sidelined with an injury as WrestleMania approaches, fans eagerly await his return and next big feud. Let’s take a look at the most significant controversies surrounding CM Punk.

Early Career Feuds

Before WWE, CM Punk was a star on the independent circuit, particularly in Ring of Honor (ROH). In 2005, a backstage altercation with Kevin Owens marked one of his early controversies. Owens, uncomfortable in his ring gear, asked to wrestle in a t-shirt. Punk publicly mocked him for his weight, leading to a heated confrontation.

AEW Tensions

Eddie Kingston, a top star in AEW, publicly criticized Punk for past derogatory comments about his weight. Their feud blurred the lines between reality and storyline, with Kingston stating that no one in the AEW locker room wanted Punk there. Kingston later expressed that while Punk helped the company, their personal relationship remained strained.

ROH Championship Drama

In ROH, Punk’s departure was marked by a controversial angle. After winning the ROH World Championship, Punk announced he was leaving for WWE, cutting a scathing promo and threatening to take the title with him. This “devil promo” is still remembered for its shocking nature.

The Infamous WWE Pipe Bomb

Punk’s “pipe bomb” promo in WWE blurred kayfabe and reality. Sitting cross-legged on the entrance ramp, he criticized Vince McMahon, Triple H, Stephanie McMahon, and even The Rock. This unscripted tirade aired backstage issues and changed the wrestling industry, bringing back many lapsed fans.

Leaving WWE with the Championship

At Money in the Bank 2011, Punk defeated John Cena and left WWE with the championship. This act, teased in his promos, shocked the wrestling world and solidified his status as a rebellious figure.

Walking Out in 2014

In 2014, Punk walked out of WWE after the Royal Rumble, citing injuries and dissatisfaction with his booking. WWE suspended him and sent his termination papers on his wedding day to AJ Lee. This led to a bitter fallout.

Podcast Revelations

Punk’s appearance on Colt Cabana’s podcast revealed his grievances with WWE, including unsafe working conditions and personal conflicts with Ryback, Vince McMahon, and Triple H. His comments about WWE’s doctor led to a lawsuit, further straining his relationship with Cabana.

AEW Debut and Fallout

Punk’s debut in AEW was highly anticipated, but it didn’t last. After a feud with Hangman Page, Punk went off script, leading to a backstage brawl with The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega. This incident led to suspensions and further controversies.

AEW Collision and Jack Perry Incident

Punk was given a show, AEW Collision, but another backstage altercation with Jack Perry led to his firing. Tony Khan publicly stated he felt physically threatened by Punk, marking the end of Punk’s tumultuous time in AEW.

Shocking WWE Return

Defying all expectations, Punk returned to WWE at Survivor Series 2023. His appearance shocked fans and reignited his controversial presence in the company. A worked angle with Seth Rollins has already set the stage for more drama.

CM Punk’s career has been defined by controversy, making him one of the most polarizing figures in wrestling history. His return to WWE promises to bring more drama and unforgettable moments. Stay tuned to see how his story unfolds.