CM Punk and his return to AEW seem all but assured at this point in time. A deal has reportedly not been finalized by both sides but it does appear the United Center has been booked for a big AEW Saturday show on June 17. That date looks to feature both the resurgence of Punk along with the launch of a new weekly, two-hour show, rumored to be titled AEW Collision.
While all of this appears positive on the surface, it would seem there are some lingering personal issues backstage between Punk and The Elite. Following The Second City Savior’s pointed comments at the AEW All Out media scrum, an altercation ensued backstage that saw Punk, Ace Steel, The Young Bucks, Kenny Omega, and others engage in a brawl that lasted for what sounds to be six to eight minutes.
Following the incident, multiple people were suspended and an internal investigation was launched by the promotion. After several weeks, The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega returned at AEW at Full Gear 2022 to begin a best-of-seven series with The Lucha Brothers for the AEW Trios Championships. As Punk’s return now seem imminent, many have wondered if all parties involved have been able to bury the hatchet.
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter is reporting that Punk has not yet made contact with The Young Bucks or Kenny Omega because “those close to him” said he has been advised not to contact the trio. For that reason, Punk has not issued any kind of apology or started a dialogue with them, even if he wanted to.
In regard to the much talked about sit-down between Punk, FTR, Tony Khan, and Chris Jericho, it was noted that the meeting has yet to take place. The idea behind gathering the men together, as it was explained, is to try and smooth things out between Punk and Jericho before trying to do the same with others. Outside of Punk, FTR, Khan, and Jericho, it doesn’t appear anyone else will be invited, as of now.
Stay with Haus of Wrestling for all the latest regarding CM Punk’s AEW return.