CM Punk: 7 Reasons He Could Have Been The Biggest WWE Star Of 2014

3. Punk Has The Mainstream Crossover Ability

The reason WWE should have got behind Punk in a big way again despite the recent dispute is Punk offers star quality. He is known in the mainstream media, casual fans are aware of his persona. By booking him in a big way, the company had a chance to increase views from the vaguely interested audiences. Wrestling fans will always watch wrestling because they love it, but casual channel hoppers watch for big characters such as The Rock and John Cena €” with Punk having that same status since his 2011 run. Another factor that makes Punk more marketable is his UFC connections. During his sabbatical we saw him watch his friend Ronda Rousey at UFC 170 in Las Vegas. Punk has a cool factor for MMA fans and some of that audience tune into WWE just to see the likes of Lesnar and Punk. Someone like Daniel Bryan lacks that same ability, wrestling fans love him, but as a crossover star we don't know if he has the same level of perception as Punk. WWE have blown it with Punk by not bringing back one of the few full timers who can give them exposure in wider markets outside of wrestling.