CM Punk pays tribute Larry, joining forces with AJ Lee, his wife and renowned wrestling figure, to remember their late dog Larry through heartfelt public statements and charity efforts. Their ongoing advocacy for animal rescue reached a new milestone as both expressed their grief and hope while collaborating with PAWS Chicago to celebrate Larry’s legacy this week.
AJ Lee Shares Emotional Message About Larry
This week, AJ Lee addressed fans on social media, reflecting on the life and impact of Larry, their rescue dog from PAWS Chicago. Larry, also known as Larry Talbot, entered AJ Lee and CM Punk’s lives over a decade ago and quickly became central to their family dynamic. AJ Lee’s tribute highlighted both Larry’s difficult past and his transformation after joining their home, emphasizing the therapeutic role he played and the bond they shared. She encouraged supporters to donate to animal rescue organizations in Larry’s name, proud of his journey from a misunderstood underdog to an adored figure within their household and beyond.
“Thank you all who donated to animal rescue org @pawschicago in Larry’s memory.
Over a decade ago our Larry Talbot was surrendered there for doing the most. Multiple fosters gave up on him, one stating on record “I cannot allow this chaos in my home any longer”. A professional trainer called him “a lost cause”. He survived abuse and abandonment and was just misunderstood. We knew he was perfect for us. He snuggled on his terms, like a prickly cat. He stole entire pizzas and donuts off countertops and swallowed them whole like a snake. One time a little abuela saw him on the street, clutched her chest, and yelled “El Chupacabra!” He helped get me out of the deepest depressive cycles and was the center of my happiest days. He went from discarded underdog to having his face plastered across billboards, the United Center, ASPCA campaigns, Rolling Stone, and had more action figures, merchandise, and fan art than most pro athletes. In his golden years, he grew the long beard of a wise wizard and became velcro, permanently attached to my lap. It was the greatest honor to become his emotional support after he spent so long being mine. I just know he’s now with my other furry angels Mugsy and Nacho, causing absolute f-ing mayhem.
I am not okay, half my heart is gone. I get really quiet and private during the hard stuff but I wanted to come on here and say, if you need a best friend who will make every day brighter, who will save your life right back, please adopt don’t shop. Rescue dogs are a special kind of magic.”
– AJ Lee, Wrestling Legend
Larry’s Rescue and Rise to Fame
Larry’s story began with a difficult start; surrendered to PAWS Chicago after previous fosters and even a professional trainer had considered him too much to handle. Despite the obstacles, AJ Lee and CM Punk saw promise and potential in Larry and made him a permanent member of their family in February 2015. Over the years, Larry became a fixture not just within their household but also across the wrestling world. Appearing on billboards, featured in ASPCA campaigns, Rolling Stone, and even garnering action figures and fan art, Larry became a symbol of what rescue dogs can achieve given a chance. Their home was filled with his presence, from the playful theft of food from countertops to his quieter moments as a comforting companion. Through his struggles and triumphs, Larry built a legacy that would continue to inspire others long after his passing.
Remembering Larry’s Passing and Continuing His Legacy
On December 2, 2025, CM Punk publicly shared news of Larry’s death, posting an emotional message about the grief and enduring love he and AJ Lee felt at the loss of their companion. He recalled Larry’s personality, adventures, and the sense of home the dog gave to everywhere they brought him. Punk wrote honestly about the heartbreak and gratitude felt in having shared their lives with such a special soul.
The grief we carry is the price we pay for unconditional love. Our little Larry crossed the rainbow bridge, wrapped tightly in our arms. He was safe and happy. Surrounded by love. We rescued Larry from @pawschicago in February of 2015 and he changed our lives. I could never in one million years find the words to properly express how much we loved him nor how much joy brought us. Nothing I write, no pictures I post would do him justice. He lived a long amazing life. He watched sunsets, he chased skate boards. He made everywhere we went with him home. What a privilege to be so heart broken and devastated for having experienced such a bond. I wouldn’t change anything. Our boy is at rest. The house is quiet but we still hear the jingle of his necklace and the tip taps of his little feet on the hardwood floors. He will always be near. We will always feel him. Our hearts are broken. Until we see you again, sweetest Bobo. We love you. Forever.
– CM Punk, Athlete
PAWS Chicago and the Call to Action for Animal Rescue
AJ Lee and CM Punk’s advocacy for rescue dogs was further amplified when PAWS Chicago announced a partnership to honor Larry. Together, they used their platforms to raise awareness of animals in need and encouraged people to support organizations like PAWS Chicago. The couple asked their fans to consider adopting rescue pets, describing the unique bonds that can develop through such acts of compassion. Their appeals highlighted not only their personal loss but their enduring belief in the transformative power of animal adoption.
The Enduring Impact of Larry’s Legacy
The story of Larry continues to resonate with fans across the wrestling world and beyond. Through the candid expressions of grief by CM Punk and AJ Lee, many supporters found solace in knowing the impact a rescue animal can have. Larry’s transformation from a misunderstood and overlooked dog into a beloved figure with an outsized legacy stands as a testament to the possibilities for every rescue animal. The partnership with PAWS Chicago, public donations in Larry’s name, and their passionate endorsements of adoption keep Larry’s memory alive while helping other animals find loving homes. As fans respond to their message, the couple’s efforts shine a light on the hope and healing found in animal rescue.
