CM Punk, the current World Heavyweight Champion on WWE RAW, recently revealed insights into his potential retirement timeline from professional wrestling. Holding the title since his victory over Jey Uso at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event last November, Punk has continued to defend it, most recently against Bron Breakker on the first RAW episode of 2026. Despite his ongoing success, Punk acknowledges that his in-ring career cannot last indefinitely.
In a candid interview with Cinema Blend, the Straight Edge Superstar opened up about his expectations for stepping away from wrestling. He reflected on how his perception of age has changed since his teens, estimating that 50 might be the age to retire gracefully.
“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,”
CM Punk said.
Punk Addresses Criticism Over His WWE Part-Time Schedule
Recently appearing on the Notsam Wrestling podcast, CM Punk responded to critics who label him a hypocrite for following a part-time WWE schedule despite his past comments against such arrangements. Punk explained that he chooses to appear on every event when travel logistics permit, emphasizing his desire to connect with fans and maintain autonomy over his schedule.
“You know what they do with me? Like, everything’s a gotcha. ‘He said he hated part-timers. Look at him. He’s a part-timer now,’”
Punk said, mimicking critics.
“I elect to be on every single show, if the travels allows it. We just did a Christmas loop. The Christmas loop is fun. Harkens back to the old school days, where I can get on the road, get in the car, drive to the next town. I’m on my own clock. I get to see the fans.”
Upcoming Title Defense and Fan Speculation in Belfast
CM Punk is set to defend his World Heavyweight Championship against Finn Balor of Judgment Day on the next WWE RAW event, which will take place in Belfast, Ireland. This match has generated buzz among fans, some of whom speculate that Balor might bring back a favored character or wrestling persona during the bout, heightening anticipation surrounding the event.
Punk’s status as the World Heavyweight Champion, combined with his reflections on retirement and evolving WWE role, underline a complex period in his wrestling career marked by passion, endurance, and an awareness of his own limits. As he navigates remaining competitive while managing his schedule, fans and critics alike await how he will continue to shape WWE’s landscape in the near future.
