In 2023, a potential CM Punk TNA signing looked imminent, with talks progressing far enough that his first rival was already chosen. Discussions between Punk and TNA Wrestling came just after AEW ended his contract following All In: London, and shortly before Punk returned to WWE at Survivor Series in Chicago.
How CM Punk’s Move to TNA Almost Happened
CM Punk’s release from AEW in 2023 set the wrestling world abuzz, as rumors swirled about his next steps. Before Punk made his surprise return to WWE, he engaged in negotiations with TNA Wrestling, indicating a strong possibility of joining the company. This stage of talks reached a point where TNA management had already selected who would serve as Punk’s debut opponent should the deal be completed.
Steve Maclin, a featured TNA wrestler, revealed in an interview with Pro Wrestling Illustrated how close the arrangement came to reality. According to Maclin, Scott D’Amore, then key figure in TNA, informed him over dinner that he was set to challenge CM Punk on his debut.
“If you want some behind-the-scenes dirt that nobody knows about,”
Steve Maclin began.
“CM Punk, before almost possibly signed with TNA — was coming in and I was gonna be his first challenger, which I found out right as Scott D’Amore was getting let go or was let go. We were having dinner one night and he let me know, ‘Yeah, Punk was gonna almost sign there and then you were gonna be his first challenger.’ I was like, ‘Sh*t!’”
— Steve Maclin, TNA Wrestler
Maclin reflected on what could have been, recognizing the excitement and attention Punk’s arrival would have brought to TNA, especially given Punk’s dramatic transitions from AEW to WWE.
Maclin’s Encounters With Punk Behind the Curtain
Beyond rumors of the CM Punk TNA signing, Steve Maclin recounted his personal experiences interacting with Punk during various TNA events in Chicago. These moments left a lasting impression on Maclin, especially considering wrestling’s sometimes challenging backstage culture.
“There were a few times he was behind the scenes in Chicago (for TNA). It was cool to just see him… I’m like, ‘Oh, CM Punk, what’s up, man?’ He’s like, ‘Oh, what’s up Mr. Maclin?’ I was like, ‘Cool. Good to see you.’ Because he was really good to me when I was an extra in WWE and you always hear the horror stories — an extra — when you say hello to people, like, people shun you and stuff but he was very respectful and I never forgot that. That’s always something in wrestling that I never forget is the people that were nice to me on the way up.”
— Steve Maclin, TNA Wrestler
Maclin appreciated Punk’s kindness to newer talent, recalling that respectful exchanges are rare but meaningful in the wrestling world. He contrasted Punk’s positive behavior with the unpleasant experiences often recounted by those breaking in as extras.
What Could Have Been for TNA and the Wrestling World
Although CM Punk’s path ultimately led him back to WWE, the near-miss with TNA continues to capture attention within the industry. Having an established star like Punk debut with TNA—especially against a wrestler like Steve Maclin—could have altered the landscape, providing momentum to TNA’s brand at a pivotal time. This scenario highlights the ripple effect major talent decisions can have on organizations like TNA Wrestling, AEW, and WWE, and keeps fans and insiders contemplating what might have unfolded should Punk have made the leap.
Punk’s continued presence as a headline-grabber underscores his enduring status, while accounts like Maclin’s offer a glimpse into the genuine moments behind the spectacle of wrestling’s biggest moves.
