CM Punk Reflects on WWE Comeback and Future Matches in Australia

In an exclusive interview with Wide World of Sports, professional wrestling icon CM Punk provided insights into his ongoing second tenure with WWE, his evolving relationship with Paul "Triple H" Levesque, and his upcoming match at SummerSlam against Gunther. The highlights of his career, marred by controversies and injuries, reveal a story of resilience and redemption.

CM Punk, whose real name is Phil Brooks, is a transformative figure in professional wrestling, known for his outspoken nature and captivating performances. After a tumultuous exit from WWE in January 2014, where he famously aired grievances about his treatment, Punk's return to the company in late 2023 was met with widespread anticipation and excitement from fans. "I think I’ve had a pretty good career so far, but that doesn’t mean I need to hang it up when I’m legitimately, every day, having the time of my life," Punk stated, emphasizing his passion for wrestling and the joy he derives from his work.

Punk's original departure was marked by a significant fallout with WWE's management, particularly with Triple H, who was then in a dual role as an active wrestler and a key executive. However, the dynamics shifted over the years, leading to a reconciliatory relationship that Punk now describes as a "dream come true." This mutual respect allows both parties to focus on creating compelling wrestling content for fans. "When things end badly in life, you don’t often get a chance to course correct," Punk noted, reflecting on the lessons learned throughout his career.

As Punk prepares for his world title match at SummerSlam, he also looks ahead to a potential return to Australia, where he has not performed in nearly 15 years. His excitement is palpable as he recalls missing last year’s Elimination Chamber event in Perth due to a triceps injury. "I was really disappointed, because I was excited to go to Australia," Punk expressed. The upcoming Crown Jewel premium live event in Australia presents a unique opportunity for Punk to reconnect with his fans down under.

The wrestling legend is also set to feature in the Netflix documentary series WWE Unreal, debuting on July 29, 2025. The series aims to provide an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at the rigorous lives of professional wrestlers, showcasing both the glamorous and challenging aspects of the industry. Punk hopes this series will inspire viewers by highlighting the resilience required in the profession. "Fans can see a strength in that, draw from that and be inspired by it," he remarked.

Punk’s career has been characterized by a series of highs and lows, including a serious injury that sidelined him for months. Despite these setbacks, he remains optimistic about the future and is focused on making the most of his time in the ring. As he heads into SummerSlam, the stakes are high not just for Punk but for WWE as well, as they seek to capture the attention of wrestling enthusiasts worldwide.

Ultimately, CM Punk's journey reflects the complexities of professional wrestling, where personal rivalries, injuries, and comebacks intertwine to create compelling narratives. With a world title match on the horizon and a potential return to Australia, Punk is poised to further solidify his legacy in the industry. As he aptly put it, "It’s not about how many times you get knocked down, it’s about how many times you get up." This ethos encapsulates not only Punk's career but the spirit of professional wrestling itself.