CM Punk’s WWE absence has led to plenty of theories, but a new report makes it sound like fans can stop worrying about him leaving the company.
Over the past several days, unverified rumors spread online claiming Punk had issues with WWE and TKO executives. Some claims even suggested he was trying to secure his release after alleged problems following WrestleMania. One rumor from the Twitter account JCup2013 claimed Punk had been “politicking” for something connected to WrestleMania and that the situation allegedly created heat with WWE/TKO leadership.
“I’ve spoken to roughly 5-8 people over the past several weeks, and all of them have heard a story about Punk politicking for something related to WrestleMania. I’ve heard whispers about what exactly he was politicking for, but I’ve been flat-out muzzled by multiple people. I think there’s a strong likelihood of it being revealed (sooner rather than later, too), so don’t get too upset.”
The same account also claimed the Second City Saint may have been asked to take a major pay cut and could have been angry enough to consider legal action in order to get out of WWE.
“Punk’s alleged attempt at politicking quickly spread amongst the roster, and he allegedly gained massive heat from WWE/TKO execs. Well, what happened almost immediately after ‘Mania? Punk gets into it with a fan, sure, but I’m asking about the big picture here. What could’ve made Punk even angrier than not getting what he wanted? Some have told me he was allegedly asked to take – and declined – a significant pay cut. It’s been suggested to me that Punk is so angry that he allegedly may be threatening legal action against TKO to secure a release, though someone else threw a little bit of cold water on that specific point.”
However, PWInsider reported that WWE is not treating those stories as credible whatsoever. A trusted WWE source responded to the claims by comparing them to another old rumor that was widely dismissed.
“Over the last several days, there have been lots of unverified claims on social media of CM Punk stories that all point to alleged issues between he and WWE and/or Punk asking for a WWE release. In speaking with a trusted WWE source today, their only comment was, “It has as much truth to it as the stories that claimed Saudi Arabia bought us years ago.”
The same source was not aware of the exact reason Punk has been off television. Still, the report noted that new CM Punk merchandise is being put together and Punk appearances are scheduled for this summer. That strongly suggests WWE still has plans for him.
“While they were not aware of why Punk has been off television, the source noted there is new merchandise being put together and Punk appearances are set for this summer.”
This also follows WrestleVotes previously shutting down the idea that WWE had no creative plans for Punk. During a Q&A, WrestleVotes was asked if Punk was off television because the company had nothing for him. The answer was direct.
“No, not true. Don’t know where that came from. It’s a well-deserved rest for a guy who’s been going, outside of injury, for three straight years. Just main evented WrestleMania—get a little time off. He’ll be back in no time, right back at the top of the card. It is not true they have no plans for CM Punk.”
Punk has not appeared on WWE television since the April 20 episode of RAW, and his absence from several advertised dates, premium live events, and international shows made fans wonder what was going on. However, the latest report indicates the release rumors are not accurate.
For now, this looks less like a major WWE-Punk fallout and more like another case of online speculation getting out of control. With new merchandise in the works and appearances already planned for the summer, Punk still appears to be part of WWE’s future.
CM Punk’s absence may continue to fuel rumors until he returns on television, but WWE’s latest response makes one thing clear: the company is not backing the idea that he is trying to get released.
What do you think about WWE shooting down the latest CM Punk rumors? Do you believe his absence is simply a planned break, or do you think there is more to the story? Let us know your thoughts and feedback in the comments below.
