CM Punk has stated definitively that he will not revert to his old WWE entrance music, This Fire Burns, because Cult of Personality now defines his identity as a performer. This decision was shared during a recent interview where he emphasized the deep connection he has with the current song, securing its place as his permanent theme in WWE.
Why Cult of Personality Holds Irreplaceable Meaning for Punk
In a conversation with GQ Sports, Punk dismissed the prospect of returning to This Fire Burns.
“No, I can’t, and I’m gonna tell you why, even though it’s none of your business,”
he stated with a grin. He elaborated,
“‘Cult of Personality’ is iconic. ‘This Fire Burns’ is also iconic. But come on, we’re talking about Living Colour. Vernon Reid. That song’s been with me since 1989 when it came out and I was on the Little League team, The Indians.”
Punk’s attachment to the track goes back to his childhood, giving it a personal significance beyond its use as his entrance music.
How Securing the Theme Song Influenced His WWE Contract
CM Punk revealed that obtaining rights to Cult of Personality was a crucial demand during his 2011 contract talks with WWE.
“I knew it was time to make ‘Cult Of Personality’ my official theme song in WWE when I was renegotiating my contract and I knew how much Vince McMahon hated to pay for licensed music,”
he said.
“And I said, ‘Guess what, pal? The only way I’m re-signing is if I get this song.’ I thought he was gonna say no and I was gonna peace out and go on vacation. He said yes, and well, now here I am.”
This moment marked a defining point in Punk’s career, solidifying the song’s association with his evolving wrestling persona.
The Evolution of Punk’s Entrance Themes Over His Career
The two themes represent different stages of CM Punk’s journey in professional wrestling. This Fire Burns, performed by Killswitch Engage, accompanied his earlier WWE years, including his ECW Championship reign and initial pushes toward main event status. It gained renewed attention during his landmark 2011 Pipebomb promo and subsequent match win over John Cena. However, shortly after, Punk’s return with Cult of Personality marked the official start of what many regard as his career peak, linking the song indelibly to that era.
Upcoming Match Highlights Punk’s Return to the Spotlight
At 46 years old, CM Punk is poised once again to be a focal point in WWE. He is scheduled to compete in a high-profile tag team match at the first-ever WWE Wrestlepalooza on Saturday, September 20, teaming alongside his wife AJ Lee, who is making her first appearance since 2015. Together, they will face World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch, making this encounter one of the event’s most anticipated bouts.
