WWE is editing CM Punk out of company history on the WWE Network. The latest indication of this is the SummerSlam 2013 artwork. It originally featured Punk amongst WWE superstars riding a rollercoaster, the new updated version on the Network is minus Punk. He has been edited out, all other superstars remain. This follows April's attempt to block Punk's image during the Ultimate Warrior documentary, when a post-it note was affixed over Punk's face on the Royal Rumble 2014 poster in WWE's office. Be it in the company headquarters or the Network, WWE really don't want to be doing anything to feature CM Punk's likeness. Here's the original SummerSlam poster below... The reasons for this attitude on WWE's part is probably down to hurting over the way Punk left. It might seem a bit petty or bitter, but that's the way things often are when a relationship ends on bad terms. The reason for the CM Punk block out could even be due to financial reasons, perhaps Punk's likeness being used would have cost the company in some way. One thing that hasn't been edited down is Punk's match content. You can still watch his classic matches, such as the epic SummerSlam encounter with Brock Lesnar. In this respect, what was the point in editing him off the poster, if he is then featured for forty minutes in the broadcast? The fact is, WWE couldn't get away with cutting Punk from the on-demand content, it would draw attention to the dispute they have with the star, in addition to riling fans who want to see his work. With Punk's image being cut from WWE where possible, it doesn't bode well for his legacy in the business, but we would expect a reconciliation at some point in the future - as Warrior demonstrated, everyone goes back to WWE eventually.
The reasons for this attitude on WWE's part is probably down to hurting over the way Punk left. It might seem a bit petty or bitter, but that's the way things often are when a relationship ends on bad terms. The reason for the CM Punk block out could even be due to financial reasons, perhaps Punk's likeness being used would have cost the company in some way. One thing that hasn't been edited down is Punk's match content. You can still watch his classic matches, such as the epic SummerSlam encounter with Brock Lesnar. In this respect, what was the point in editing him off the poster, if he is then featured for forty minutes in the broadcast? The fact is, WWE couldn't get away with cutting Punk from the on-demand content, it would draw attention to the dispute they have with the star, in addition to riling fans who want to see his work. 