Possibly a negative CM Punk legacy is the way he changed the dynamics of talent leverage against the promoter. To be fair, wrestling has long ripped off its performers, so maybe it isn't a bad thing that Punk leaves WWE having weakened management against the demands of top stars. We first witnessed Punk affirm performer power in 2011, when he used the threat of leaving WWE to leverage himself an improved contract, company top spot and creative control. The fact that Punk actually got what he wanted is a signal of just how weak the WWE roster is these days, ten years ago Punk would have been replaceable, but in 2011 it was decided he was indispensable. By acting and succeeding in his play for more power, Punk set a precedent for future top star negotiations. Vince McMahon is weakened. Shockingly in 2014 we have seen something similar play out. Punk has walked out on his contract leaving the WWE high and dry. He can do this because WWE made him a rich man, so if Punk doesn't like what he is working with, he has no real reason to stick around. Punk's current walkout is a dangerous legacy for WWE to look upon, basically it sets the standard that wrestlers are so powerful now that if WWE isn't giving them what they want then they'll just head for the exit.
