10 Most Divisive Figures In Wrestling History
8. CM Punk
Prosecution:
Succinctly, he was not as good as he was fond of making out. His flying elbow drop was deeply awkward - one of the most poorly-executed moves in wrestling at the time, and it was apparently delivered by the so-called Best In The World. Tendency to ramble in his promos, though bloated segment lengths get the better of virtually everybody. Sloppy in transitions at times. Natural smugness undermined his big 2012 babyface run as much as John Cena's shadow did. Used the dreaded word "fake" on his way out of the wrestling door, at which point he more or less gave fans who invested in him emotionally and financially little reason to protect his legacy.
Defence:
"Best in the world!" At least in terms of massaging that perception. An exceptional wrestler, Punk was every bit as good as a worker - and he was an even better promo. Pipebomb notwithstanding, his 2009 work was fabulous. His straight edge, holier-than-thou bit was unlike anything in wrestling, and in the era of infinite kickpads, such character is much missed. But Punk also richly deserved his two ***** Wrestling Observer match ratings because, when he was at the top of his game, nobody could touch him as an all-rounder. On those two nights, few could argue with his marketing slogan.
Author Verdict:
Those who remember 2009-2011 should cherish Punk for his seminal contributions to a barren, barren landscape, even if he himself no longer gives a toss.