CM Punk has revealed that he plans to retire from his WWE wrestling career in approximately three years, around the age of 50. This announcement comes amid growing speculation about the longevity of top wrestlers in WWE and coincides with his expanding interest in acting. Punk made the statement during a recent interview, confirming that while he remains active and competitive now, he envisions stepping away from the ring relatively soon.
Fans of wrestling have witnessed many iconic figures retire in recent years, including The Undertaker and Ric Flair. John Cena’s heartfelt exit and AJ Styles’ announced retirement in 2026 have marked the end of eras for their respective legacies. Punk, often known as The Second City Saint, appears ready to join this group of celebrated veterans contemplating retirement.
Insights From Punk on His Wrestling Career and Future Plans
In a candid discussion with Cinema Blend, Punk shared how his perspective on wrestling’s physical demands has evolved. Originally, he didn’t expect to compete beyond age 40, but now at 47, he feels far from finished and inspired by legends who continued wrestling much longer. He referenced notable names like Ric Flair and Terry Funk, who remained active into their seventies, as well as luchadors known for their extended careers.
“When I was 15, if you asked me if I’d be wrestling when I was 40, I would tell you ‘No, that’s crazy. 40 is so old.’ I’m 47, and I don’t feel old yet. Terry Funk wrestled for a long time, Ric Flair wrestled for a long time. I mean, there’s luchadors that are like in their 70s that are still doing it. Do I want to be doing that? Probably not. I would estimate probably the big 50 is when I should maybe gracefully bow out. Knock on wood, if nothing else horrible happens.”
Punk emphasized that while he doesn’t intend to wrestle far beyond 50, he still enjoys the sport and plans to contribute as long as he can. His remarks underline a realistic acknowledgment of his physical limits combined with a continued passion for wrestling.
Admiration for John Cena’s Retirement and Its Influence
Reflecting on John Cena’s recent retirement, Punk praised how Cena exited the wrestling scene with dignity and respect, a transition he found both meaningful and rare in the wrestling world. This example has set a standard Punk hopes to emulate with his own departure from WWE.
“A lot of the times you don’t get a choice. That’s why it was special to watch John retire. To me, it was a perfect retirement. We’re celebrating a guy who isn’t dead and can still walk. I tell people all the time none of us are getting out alive. He got out at the right time. He showed us a way to exit with dignity and grace, and I don’t know if mine will look that way. I don’t know what mine’s going to look like. I do know it’s coming sooner than later. I’m still having fun operating at a high level, no matter what anybody says, and until I can’t contribute, I still will.”
Punk noted the unpredictability of retirement timing in wrestling, pointing out that many athletes face forced retirements due to injury or other circumstances. His focus remains on performing at a high level and contributing meaningfully until the end of his in-ring career.
Expanding Career Beyond Wrestling
Alongside his wrestling commitments, Punk continues to broaden his professional horizons in acting. He is set to appear in the film Night Patrol, portraying a complex character—a racist cop who is also a vampire. The movie is scheduled for release on January 16, highlighting Punk’s diversified career pursuits beyond WWE.
The Significance of Punk’s Retirement Announcement
CM Punk’s decision to announce a retirement timeline adds to the ongoing narrative of wrestling legends preparing to step back. His thoughtful reflections on aging in a physically demanding sport provide insight into the challenges wrestlers face as they age. By setting a target retirement age, he acknowledges his limits while maintaining a competitive spirit.
This revelation also raises interest among fans about how Punk’s wrestling story will conclude and how he will shape his legacy in the coming years. As CM Punk navigates his remaining WWE tenure and new ventures in acting, the wrestling community will closely watch his path toward an exit that honors his contributions and personal aspirations.
“I would estimate probably the big 50 is when I should maybe gracefully bow out”
— CM Punk on retirement
(via Cinema Blend) pic.twitter.com/CBvqvzh9xj
— WrestlingWorldCC (@WrestlingWCC) January 14, 2026
