CM Punk WWE return has reignited excitement among fans and fellow wrestlers since his comeback at the 2023 Survivor Series. Though his appearance remains largely the same except for a few grey hairs, it is his changed attitude behind the scenes that has caught the attention of WWE Superstars like The Miz. Their respect for Punk’s renewed professional approach signals a fresh chapter in WWE dynamics.
Mike Mizanin, known as The Miz, and Phil Brooks, better known as CM Punk, both bring over 20 years of wrestling experience, yet their relationship diverged sharply after Punk’s departure in 2014. At that time, Punk openly criticized Miz and WWE for accepting opportunities tied to controversial deals, for which he has since apologized to both Miz and the people of Saudi Arabia. The divide between them, once deep, now appears bridged as they share a common goal in nurturing the upcoming generation of wrestlers.
On the show Unlikely with Adrian Hernandez, The Miz spoke about Punk’s transformation.
“He seems very happy. I wouldn’t even say complacent because he’s always competitive and always wants to be number one. But also is in a position where he’s teaching a lot and there’s not many of us that have been here for 20 years and have been able to teach and learn and adapt. So it’s cool to see the change and the happiness, because you want happiness for everyone.”
– The Miz
AJ Lee’s Unexpected Return Alongside CM Punk
CM Punk’s surprise return at Survivor Series revived interest not only in him but also in AJ Lee, his wife since 2014. Ironically, the couple’s wedding day coincided with Punk’s release from WWE, after which Lee left the wrestling world to focus on writing and acting. Persistent calls from fans and colleagues led to her reappearance in WWE on September 5th, where she aligned with Punk by launching an attack on Becky Lynch.
Lee and Punk’s alliance was soon tested in a mixed tag team match against Lynch and her husband, Seth Rollins, at Wrestlepalooza. Their victory highlighted a powerful comeback for two figures many believed unlikely to return to WWE. This resurgence underscores the unpredictable nature of wrestling careers, where past retirements can give way to fresh chapters.
Renewed Relationships and Future Prospects in WWE
The CM Punk WWE return has influenced not only individual careers but also the WWE landscape as a whole. Punk’s willingness to teach and adapt while maintaining competitiveness sets the stage for a more collaborative backstage environment among veterans. His changed demeanor, endorsed by long-time peers like The Miz and Bryan Danielson, hints at a period focused on evolving the performers and the company.
Meanwhile, AJ Lee’s comeback alongside Punk underscores a renewed energy in WWE’s storytelling and fan engagement. Their successful tag team victory points toward future storylines that could further energize audiences and potentially shape WWE’s direction in coming months. As both continue to build their legacies, wrestling fans remain hopeful and attentive to how this new era unfolds.
This match is MADNESS!! 😱#Wrestlepalooza pic.twitter.com/lElZsAAfDP
— WWE (@WWE) September 21, 2025
