Speculation about a possible CM Punk retirement in WWE continues to make waves, as notable figures within the industry urge the 46-year-old World Heavyweight Champion to step away from the ring. Persistent criticism around Punk’s current performance and commitment has fueled debate among fans and insiders alike, with several WWE personalities recently voicing their desire for the controversial superstar to call it a career.
Concerns Over CM Punk’s In-Ring Future in WWE
CM Punk, often at the center of both admiration and controversy, has remained a dominant force and topic of discussion in professional wrestling. Despite holding the World Heavyweight Championship on Monday Night RAW, questions over his continued physicality and passion persist. Repeatedly, the topic of his retirement rises both onscreen and off, especially as high-profile figures weigh in on whether Punk should retire from WWE. A major podcast recently amplified these discussions, encouraging Punk—also known as The Best in the World—to consider bringing his in-ring journey to a close.
Seth Rollins: The Rival Who Wants Punk Gone
Seth Rollins, long considered one of CM Punk’s fiercest adversaries, has repeatedly urged Punk to leave the company. Their personal rivalry took center stage during SummerSlam 2024 when Rollins, acting as Special Guest Referee in Punk’s clash with Drew McIntyre, told him to retire on the spot and walk away from WWE. Throughout that high-stakes bout, Rollins made it clear—on the microphone and in front of the crowd—that he believed Punk’s time in WWE was over, issuing stinging remarks that heightened their already intense feud. Rollins, a former member of The Shield, further taunted Punk, directing humorous yet cutting comments intended to inflame their on-screen animosity and questioning Punk’s future as an active competitor.
Kevin Nash: Hall of Famer Candidly Critiques Punk’s Performance
WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash added to the mounting calls for CM Punk’s retirement after a recent episode of his podcast recorded on December 29, 2025. Nash, never one to shy away from controversy, sharply criticized Punk’s performance in a recent tag team match on RAW, describing his in-ring strikes and overall physicality as lacking the sharpness expected of a top champion. The wrestling legend did not mince words, asserting his belief that the 46-year-old should draw his wrestling career to a close and leave WWE permanently. Unlike the dramatics of weekly programming, Nash’s remarks were direct and reflected his honest opinions about the state of Punk’s wrestling ability, particularly following the most recent RAW tag team match.
Austin Theory: The Rising Star Echoes Retirement Sentiments
Austin Theory, a member of The Vision, is among the younger WWE superstars openly calling for CM Punk’s retirement. During a recent appearance on RAW Recap, Theory offered strong words regarding the reigning World Heavyweight Champion, stating that the sport no longer suits Punk and advocating for his departure from WWE. The 28-year-old went as far as labeling Punk “ego hungry” and “drawn out” for refusing to step aside. These statements matched the current storyline tensions between Punk and The Vision faction, reflecting a wider sentiment among newer talent eager to see a generational shift and the closing chapter of Punk’s time in Stamford’s globally recognized wrestling brand.
Impact of the Retirement Debate Surrounding CM Punk
The continued scrutiny and vocal calls for a CM Punk retirement in WWE highlight both the emotional investment and fierce opinions within the wrestling world. While the Second City Saint maintains a major presence as World Heavyweight Champion, mounting pressure from rivals like Seth Rollins and outspoken legends like Kevin Nash suggest the debate will persist until Punk makes a definitive announcement. For now, fans and WWE insiders remain divided, with some hoping to see Punk continue his storied career, while others advocate for new faces to rise following his potential exit from the ring. The situation continues to develop on and off screen, ensuring that CM Punk and his future in WWE remain a focal point for the wrestling community.
