CM Punk Could Have Non-Compete Clause In His AEW Contract

CM Punk is huge figure in the professional wrestling world, and his return to the industry in 2021 after a seven-year hiatus was iconic for many. He made his debut in AEW and has remained a controversial figure in the industry. Despite his popularity and success, some fans and critics view him as divisive due to his outspoken opinions and past controversies. While he remains in hiatus, it seems his AEW contract could have a non-compete clause in it.

During the post-AEW All Out media scrum, CM Punk went off on Colt Cabana, Hangman Page, and The Young Bucks, which led to considerable backlash and damage to his reputation within the company.

The fallout from his actions has continued to be a topic of discussion. Since then, Punk has been absent from the wrestling scene due to a triceps injury that required surgery. He has been making progress towards recovery, and his suspension likely added to his prolonged absence.

According to Sean Ross Sapp behind Fightful’s paywall, no AEW stars under contract have a non-compete attached to their contracts. In general, AEW does not release talents outside special requests and disciplinary actions.

A non-compete would generally just extend the life of a deal ending. Non competes can’t really do that unless it’s agreed upon by the talent. Upon some early departures, we’re told things are largely a case-by-case basis. For example, everyone we spoke to in AEW believe that if CM Punk were let out of his deal early, it would be on the condition he not compete in WWE for a period of time.

However, it was noted that CM Punk could be the exception to this. Many talents backstage seem to believe that CM Punk does have a non-compete attached to his contract. If Punk gets released, many believe he will have to adhere to the condition of not competing for WWE for a set period of time.

CM Punk has teased his return to AEW and ROH in recent weeks. CM Punk and The Elite have not mended fences while he remains on the shelf after suffering a triceps injury. We will have to wait and see when Punk will return to Ring Of Honor in the future.

Are you a CM Punk fan? Do you want to see him back in AEW? Sound off in the comments below!