CM Punk returned tonight on AEW Rampage, which was one of the worst-kept secrets in professional wrestling.
AEW Rampage kicked off at 10 p.m. Eastern from the sold-out United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Within moments, Punk’s theme song, “Cult of Personality,” hit, and he made his way to the ring to a thunderous ovation.
Here is an excerpt from Punk’s promo:
Punk says it’s hot and removes his jacket to reveal his classic “CM Punk” t-shirt. Punk then sits in the ring cross-legged like his classic “Pipe Bomb” promo. Punk felt like he had to leave. That happened at Ring of Honor. August 13, 2005, was his last night at ROH. Punk had tears in his eyes. Punk now knows why he had tears. Punk had made a home in a place that loved professional wrestling. Punk cried because he knew he was leaving a place he loved. It was a home. Punk knew where he was going. It wasn’t going to be easy for a guy like him because he’s like the fans. Punk says August 13, 2005, he left professional wrestling. August 20, 2021… “I’m back!” The crowd roars in approval.
Follow along with the AEW Rampage recap for more results here.