Latest On CM Punk & The Elite's AEW Relationship Amid Return Rumours
Bridges between CM Punk and The Elite need to be rebuilt before Punk can return to AEW.
The Elite and CM Punk have not mended fences since their fight engulfed AEW in backstage controversy after All Out 2022.
Dave Meltzer reports on Wrestling Observer Radio that if Punk is to return to AEW, "there's a lot of mending of fences to be done." Nothing at all has been accomplished thus far in that regard, with the rift remaining.
Meltzer added that Punk could feasibly be back in AEW within two months. The promotion will then have a decision to make, with the choice destined to become a big story.
Punk has been sidelined since brawling with Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks at AEW's September pay-per-view. Sparked by the 44-year-old's incendiary press scrum comments, the melee resulted in all parties involved being handed indefinite suspensions. An internal investigation followed. As a result, producer Ace Steel lost his job, having allegedly bitten Omega in the fight. The Elite returned two months later at Full Gear, while Punk remains on ice.
A triceps injury suffered while wrestling Jon Moxley at All Out would have sidelined Punk regardless of the controversy. That injury clearing up could be the first step on a return to wrestling, though other circumstances would need to align, including his stormy relationship with AEW's Executive Vice Presidents.