CM Punk's AEW Career: Matches, Moments, And Impact

by Jhon Lennon 51 views

CM Punk's arrival in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) sent shockwaves throughout the wrestling world. After a seven-year hiatus from professional wrestling, his debut at AEW First Dance in August 2021 was a monumental moment, instantly elevating AEW's profile and injecting a surge of excitement into the industry. This article dives into CM Punk's AEW career, exploring his most memorable matches, significant moments, and overall impact on the promotion.

The Debut and Early Matches

Guys, let's rewind to August 20, 2021. The United Center in Chicago was buzzing. The anticipation was palpable. Then, Cult of Personality hit, and the place exploded. CM Punk was back! His first promo was heartfelt, addressing his reasons for leaving wrestling and his renewed passion for the sport, particularly AEW. This return wasn't just about Punk; it was about reigniting a flame for wrestling fans who had felt a void for years. His initial matches were carefully curated to showcase his return to form while building compelling storylines.

Punk's first match back was against Darby Allin at All Out 2021. This wasn't just any match; it was a symbolic passing of the torch. Allin, known for his daredevil style and connection with a younger audience, was the perfect opponent for Punk to prove he could still go. The match was a fantastic blend of storytelling and in-ring action, with Punk ultimately securing the victory with the GTS. It showed that while he had been away, he hadn't lost a step. Following this, Punk engaged in a series of matches against veterans like Eddie Kingston, Daniel Garcia, and Bobby Fish. These matches served multiple purposes: they allowed Punk to shake off any ring rust, they provided compelling narratives that tapped into his history and the broader wrestling landscape, and they elevated the profiles of his opponents. The match against Eddie Kingston, in particular, was a brutal and emotionally charged affair, highlighting Punk's ability to still deliver intense, believable performances. These early matches were crucial in re-establishing Punk as a credible force in professional wrestling and setting the stage for his bigger ambitions in AEW.

The Championship Pursuit

Alright, so after proving he could still hang, it was time for CM Punk to set his sights on the AEW World Championship. His journey to the top was filled with compelling rivalries and matches that showcased his strategic brilliance and in-ring prowess. One of the most significant feuds during this period was against MJF (Maxwell Jacob Friedman). Their storyline was a masterclass in wrestling storytelling, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. MJF, a master manipulator and arguably one of the best heels in the business, targeted Punk with deeply personal insults, referencing Punk's past and questioning his motivations. Their promos were intense, filled with genuine animosity, and drew viewers in week after week. This feud culminated in a series of matches, including a brutal Dog Collar match at Revolution 2022. This match was a violent and visceral affair, demonstrating the depth of their hatred for each other. Punk ultimately emerged victorious, but the feud solidified MJF as a top-tier villain and further cemented Punk's status as a top babyface.

Before ultimately capturing the AEW World Championship, CM Punk also had notable encounters and matches against names like Dustin Rhodes, who is Cody Rhodes's brother. Each match contributed to Punk's narrative of proving himself and climbing the ranks in AEW. These matches weren't just about wins and losses; they were about showcasing Punk's evolution as a performer and his ability to connect with the audience on a deeper level. Finally, at Double or Nothing 2022, CM Punk defeated "Hangman" Adam Page to win the AEW World Championship. This was a monumental achievement, marking his first world championship win in over a decade. The victory was met with thunderous applause and chants, validating Punk's decision to join AEW and proving that he could still reach the pinnacle of the wrestling world.

The Reign and the Controversy

CM Punk's reign as AEW World Champion, unfortunately, was shorter and more turbulent than many fans had hoped. Injuries played a significant role, forcing him to step away from active competition for a period. This was a setback, as it interrupted his momentum and left fans wondering what could have been. However, upon his return, the controversy began to swirl.

After regaining the AEW World Championship from Jon Moxley in a hard-fought match at All Out 2022, Punk delivered a now-infamous press conference. His comments were directed at several individuals, including Colt Cabana (his former friend), Hangman Page, and the AEW executive vice presidents (The Elite: Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks). The remarks were perceived as unprofessional and disrespectful, creating a significant rift within the company. This led to a backstage altercation between Punk and The Elite, the details of which are still debated and shrouded in secrecy. What is known is that the incident resulted in suspensions for all parties involved and the stripping of Punk's AEW World Championship. This incident cast a shadow over Punk's accomplishments in AEW and raised serious questions about his future in the company. It was a chaotic period marked by uncertainty and disappointment for many fans. Ultimately, CM Punk's contract with AEW was terminated, bringing an end to his tumultuous but impactful run.

Memorable Matches

Let’s talk specifics! Throughout his AEW run, CM Punk delivered some truly unforgettable matches. Here are a few highlights:

  • CM Punk vs. Darby Allin (All Out 2021): A perfect return match, blending nostalgia with a showcase of Allin's incredible talent.
  • CM Punk vs. Eddie Kingston (Full Gear 2021): A brutal and emotionally charged match that highlighted Punk's intensity and Kingston's unbridled aggression.
  • CM Punk vs. MJF (Revolution 2022 - Dog Collar Match): A violent and personal encounter that showcased the depth of their animosity.
  • CM Punk vs. "Hangman" Adam Page (Double or Nothing 2022): The match where Punk captured the AEW World Championship, marking a significant milestone in his career.
  • CM Punk vs. Jon Moxley (All Out 2022): A hard-hitting clash that saw Punk regain the title, albeit briefly.

Impact on AEW

Despite the controversial ending, there's no denying the impact CM Punk had on AEW. His arrival immediately brought mainstream attention to the promotion, attracting new viewers and generating a buzz that helped elevate AEW's profile. His presence also lent credibility to the company, particularly among long-time wrestling fans who remembered his previous successes. Punk's ability to tell compelling stories and deliver captivating performances in the ring contributed significantly to AEW's growth. He helped elevate other talents, both through in-ring competition and through the sheer spotlight that his presence created. Furthermore, Punk's run demonstrated AEW's willingness to take risks and embrace different styles of wrestling. While his departure was undoubtedly a setback, the impact of his time in AEW is undeniable. He left a lasting legacy, both positive and negative, that will continue to be debated and analyzed for years to come. Whether you loved him or hated him, CM Punk's AEW career was a significant chapter in the history of the company.

The Legacy

So, what's the final verdict on CM Punk's AEW stint? It's complicated, right? His run was a mix of incredible highs and disappointing lows. The matches were often fantastic, the storylines were compelling, and the initial excitement was off the charts. However, the controversies and the abrupt ending left a sour taste in many fans' mouths. Ultimately, CM Punk's legacy in AEW will be defined by both his in-ring accomplishments and the drama that surrounded him. He was a catalyst for growth, a source of controversy, and an undeniable force in the world of professional wrestling. His time in AEW serves as a reminder that even the biggest stars can face challenges and that the wrestling world is always full of surprises. Only time will tell how his AEW run will be viewed in the long term, but one thing is certain: it was a memorable and impactful chapter in the history of both CM Punk and All Elite Wrestling.