CM Punk recently identified four WWE superstars he believes will define the promotion’s next generation, emphasizing their significance in the industry. Speaking to Matt Aguilar from ComicBook Nation, Punk discussed his upcoming World Heavyweight Championship match against Gunther at SummerSlam, explaining that competing against Gunther holds particular meaning for him at this stage of his career.
Though WWE features many skilled wrestlers, CM Punk noted he cannot face all of them, so he singled out a select group who he feels are destined to carry the company forward.
I’m not trying to do a speed run and share the ring with everybody. But Gunther is at the top of the list of people that I look at they are not only the present, they are definitely the future of the business. Bron Breakker, Chad Gable, [and] Damian Priest.
—CM Punk
Reflection on CM Punk’s Defining WWE Moment
During a conversation on the Unsportsmanlike podcast, CM Punk recounted the moment he realized he had truly made it in WWE. He remembered an incident involving the company’s makeup artist, Jane, which marked a turning point in his career.
He explained that early in 2005, while under contract with Ohio Valley Wrestling and preparing for a dark match, he found himself in trouble for using a spray bottle meant only for talent. Years later, by 2011, Jane approached him differently, signaling his rise within WWE’s ranks.
‘What do you think you’re doing? That is for talent. Put it down.’ I was like, ‘Okay.’ Quietly tiptoe away. That was 2005. In 2011, CM Punk became the hottest superstar in the business and Jane walks up to me one day and goes, ‘How come you never come see me? You know I can cut your hair, right?’ I was like, ‘I made it. I’m a top guy now.
—CM Punk
Significance of These Wrestlers in WWE’s Evolution
This acknowledgment by CM Punk places Gunther, Bron Breakker, Chad Gable, and Damian Priest as central figures in WWE’s future landscape. Their talents represent a strategic shift toward building new stars capable of maintaining and elevating the company’s prominence. Fans and industry insiders alike will be watching closely as these performers take on more high-profile roles in upcoming events like SummerSlam.
CM Punk’s comments underscore the importance of these wrestlers not only as present competitors but as foundational pillars for WWE’s ongoing success in the increasingly competitive world of professional wrestling.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did CM Punk apologize?
A. CM Punk said sorry to fans in Saudi Arabia for a tweet causing controversy before WWE Night of Champions. When Punk came to the kickoff show, fans expressed their displeasure by booing him. During the event, a fan yelled something at Punk, prompting him to take a moment and talk about his earlier tweet about The Miz.
Q. Does CM Punk support LGBTQ?
A. Punk is a strong advocate for trans rights and shows support both in and out of the wrestling ring. In 2023, while with AEW, he spoke up for LGBTQ+ individuals, staying true to his nickname, “Voice of the Voiceless.”
Q. Was CM Punk actually hurt?
A. Even though it looked like Punk was hurt, his fall was planned. On the other hand, McIntyre got genuinely injured and needed 16 stitches. The intense action thrilled the audience, who are now excited to find out what happens next with both wrestlers.
Q. Why doesn’t CM Punk talk to his brother?
A. CM Punk’s brother, Mike Broox, opened up about taking money from the Lunatic Wrestling Federation, causing their relationship to end over two decades ago.
