12 Years ago today, CM Punk walked out of WWE before Monday Night RAW
(Courtesy : WWE)
CM Punk is the current WWE World Heavyweight Champion!
Twelve years ago today, the wrestling industry was forever altered when CM Punk walked out of WWE just hours before Monday Night RAW. What initially looked like an abrupt disappearance would later be recognized as one of the most consequential moments in modern professional wrestling history.
At the time, Punk was one of WWE’s biggest stars. From his early success in the revived ECW brand to the iconic “Summer of Punk” in 2011, he had built a reputation as the “voice of the voiceless.” Despite holding the WWE Championship for 434 days and feuding with John Cena, The Undertaker, and Triple H, Punk felt creatively boxed in and physically broken down.
Why CM Punk walk away from WWE?
CM Punk’s final WWE appearance came at the 2014 Royal Rumble. When he failed to show up for RAW the following night, speculation ran wild.
Nearly a year later, Punk explained his decision on Colt Cabana’s Art of Wrestling podcast, citing medical negligence, creative frustrations, and exhaustion. He also expressed resentment over being overlooked for WrestleMania main events in favor of part-time stars like The Rock.
Those revelations sparked widespread debate about WWE’s treatment of talent and shone a spotlight on wrestler health and creative autonomy. Punk’s walkout wasn’t just personal; it became symbolic.
Also Read: Why did CM Punk leave WWE in 2014? A recap
AEW Return, fallout, and the road back home
After leaving WWE, Punk stepped away from wrestling entirely, pursuing acting, comic writing, and a brief but unsuccessful UFC run. In August 2021, he stunned the industry by returning to wrestling with All Elite Wrestling. His emotional debut on Rampage was one of the most celebrated moments of the decade.
However, Punk’s AEW tenure unraveled following two highly publicized backstage altercations. Despite programs with Darby Allin, MJF, and Adam Page, his run ended in 2023 after a confrontation involving Jack Perry and company president Tony Khan.
Reflecting later, Punk admitted, “I feel like I wasted some matches on some people… Some people understand the business and some people don’t.”
In November 2023, Punk made a shocking return to WWE at Survivor Series. Reports revealed that Triple H and Punk held a private meeting to clear the air, paving the way for his comeback. Since then, CM Punk has openly praised WWE’s new creative direction, stating that had things been this way before, he never would have left.
Now, holding the World Heavyweight Championship and heading toward WWE Royal Rumble 2026, CM Punk’s story has come full circle, defined by rebellion, resilience, and reinvention.
Why did CM Punk walk out of WWE in 2014?
He cited burnout, injuries, medical issues, and dissatisfaction with creative direction.
What happened during CM Punk’s AEW run?
CM Punk returned in 2021 but was released in 2023 following backstage altercations.
For more updates, follow Khel Now Wrestling on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram & Whatsapp.
Blesson Daniel is a sub-editor who spends his days organizing words and managing social media, crafting bursts of creativity designed to make people smile. He occasionally dives into writing as well — whether it’s crafting articles, brainstorming ideas, or finding the perfect caption. Believing that every piece of writing offers an opportunity to tell a story, Blesson brings creativity and thoughtfulness to every project he takes on. When he’s not glued to his laptop, Blesson is likely planning his next travel adventure or losing himself in music. A passionate explorer of new places, sounds, and ideas, he believes in balancing work, play, and a good playlist in the background. Whether he’s editing, writing, or daydreaming about his next trip, Blesson is always chasing that sweet spot where creativity and curiosity collide to create something memorable.