CM Punk Was Tony Khan's "First Pick" For AEW
Big money was offered in Punk's direction.
CM Punk made a cheeky-as-chips 'return' to the squared-circle this past weekend, sneaking out in a mask to deliver a GTS at a small-scale indie show in West Allis, Wisconsin. The nature of the MKE Wrestling cameo was a clear indicator that this was a mere one-off to help out mate and promoter Silas Young, although his first involvement in the industry for over five years has naturally sparked speculation about a possible return to the ring for The Best in the World.
Speaking on the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer reasoned that Punk has absolutely no interest in lacing up his wrestling boots again, given intel that he was Tony Khan's 'first pick' as a marquee signing for upstart promotion All Elite Wrestling, ahead of Chris Jericho and The Young Bucks.
According to the veteran journalist, the failed MMA fighter was offered the chance to make "really good money" aligning with Cody and co.; the fact he turned it down, and his continuing resentment towards WWE, means chances of a full-time resumption of his wrestling career is basically zero.
Unless he fancies dossing around the Cheese State in a mask, anyway.