Tony Khan terminates CM Punk's AEW contract

[GD]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Statement from All Elite Wrestling and Tony Khan <a href="https://t.co/3MtW6MkGDf">pic.twitter.com/3MtW6MkGDf</a></p>&mdash; All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) <a href="https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1698071772543738090?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>





https://media.tenor.com/IYRgxFlQHEoAAAAd/aew-botch-koala-botch.gif

I figured it would be nice to consolidate the discussion related to CM Punk in one thread.

I had a few questions regarding the incident at ALL IN. Did Jack Perry get permission to use "real glass" during his zero hour title defense? If so, is it Punk's place to intervene as a veteran (not disregarding his concern for Perry's health)? Isn't it hypocritical that Punk would get upset at Perry for his comment considering his ascension in WWE relied heavily on snarky comments?

https://media.tenor.com/mKaHEwkxgMkAAAAd/cm-punk-double-or-nothing.gif

Collision was suppose to be a drama free environment, yeah? Is he setting a good example as the locker room leader by taking shots at the Bucks and Page when he's not involved in a program with them?

P. S. What is this guy's fascination with being a locker room leader? It reminds me of when Booker threw trash on the floor to make a point.

On an episode of Talk Is Jericho, Cody Rhodes and Chris Jericho told the story of CM Punk declaring himself the "locker room leader" in WWE. As they tell it, Punk stood up in front of the locker room and told the boys to start picking up their trash. Booker didn't appreciate Punk declaring himself the locker room leader and decided to throw his trash on the floor to prove a point.


https://media.tenor.com/vo4YwZ4QZDcAAAAd/cm-punk-double-or-nothing.gif

Do you think Punk would push around his weight if he were in a locker room with guys like Bob Holly, Booker, Taker and others? Do you think Punk would've behaved similarly if Powerhouse Hobbs or Mox would've defied him?

https://media.tenor.com/CFF9ts7tJEAAAAAd/cm-punk-cm-punk-botch.gif

[GD]

https://media.tenor.com/qIYGWT1akV4AAAAd/cm-punk-cm-punk-botch.gif

[thekrow]

I think CM Punk is the greatest wrestler of the modern post attitude generation and at this point he can say and do whatever he wants without any critics because he earned it by being that good.
It is a point at which a person becomes that damn good at something that they should do whatever they want.
I think Punk could have been MUCH bigger than he was in the WWE if the creative team booked objectively, the man could have been the face of the company for a decade.
Being a leader dont mean you sit on your hands with your mouth shut, Punk calls things out how he sees them and younger wrestlers should sit down and listen.

[Sepholio]

When the antivaxxers think Punk is the greatest it's safe to assume he's the drizzling shits.

[xrodmuc316]

CM Punk is a good on the mic, but so what. There are plenty of guys good on the mic who arent bitter fragile old dickheads trying to start fights with their coworkers.

If he was as good as he thinks he is, maybe people would be more inclined to take his advice.

[Sepholio]

If he was as good as he thinks he is every living creature in the Universe would recognize him as the greatest athlete of all time.

[xrodmuc316]

If he was as good as he thinks he is every living creature in the Universe would recognize him as the greatest athlete of all time.

LOL truth right there

[GD]

Apparently Punk might actually have been involved in three separate backstage incidents at AEW's All In show.

According to PWTorch's Wade Keller, the argument Punk had with Khan where he threatened to quit AEW did not happen after the Jack Perry backstage incident but instead before it.

The trigger to it was Perry's comments to the camera about his glass spot during his match with HOOK that enraged Punk enough that he stormed into the room that Khan was in and started yelling at him over it.

Based on those spoken to, Keller reported that the working relationship between Punk and Khan might be getting to the point where it is beyond repair.

This would explain why AEW quickly went to Punk's lawyer to inform him of Punk's suspension and them also quickly contacting Warner Bros over what Punk did and why he got pulled from the plans for this Sunday's All Out show. WBD did not have any issue with it after they got told which could be a sign that even WBD has gotten tired of Punk after being all in on him in AEW and his biggest supporter after Khan.

In regards to the dumb post made by someone in the wrestling forum over the claim that WBD would pull their TV deal for Collision if Punk leaves. Not only is that not likely at all, Punk was only responsible for Collision being a two hour show. WBD & AEW had already been talking way beforehand of a second tv show for AEW and on Saturdays but as a one hour show.

Quality update from Smeat...despite the lack of :lol:

[GD]

Imagine a world where after Brawl Out, Tony has all the parties involved come sit down together with a mediator, hash out what happened, tells the parties "Don't do this shit again, or else you will all be suspended indefinitely without pay and possibly fired for the incident at hand"

Splaya makes a decent point.

[Frank Drebin]

New details emerging everyday. We will never get the real story of what happened.

[Frank Drebin]

Splaya makes a decent point.

If TK had a spine or had actually managed like his livelihood depended on it, he might have done something like this.

Thanks guys.

[GD]

Remember when WWE released a video focusing on CM Punk's buttocks? (minus the music)

<iframe width="806" height="453" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/31EAOmQK1ts" title="The CM Punk Gratuitous Ass Shot Video" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[GD]

If TK had a spine or had actually managed like his livelihood depended on it, he might have done something like this.

Thanks guys.

Just like how Vince handled Shawn’s eccentricities in the 90s

[Mr. Nerfect]

First of all, we’ve already got a thread for this. Fuck GD and their attention seeking ways.

Smeat reports bullshit without any critical thinking applied.

I’m pro-vax, pro-science — fuck The Elite and go Punk.

Young talent does want to listen to Punk. Look at Collision. Don’t believe the Elite/Meltzer myths.

Punk’s the only difference-maker in that company and he’s constantly fucked with. I don’t know how he puts up with it.

[Splaya]

Money

[GD]

I think Seph is referring to thekrow as anti-vax :o

[GD]

First of all, we’ve already got a thread for this. Fuck GD and their attention seeking ways.

Smeat reports bullshit without any critical thinking applied.

I’m pro-vax, pro-science — fuck The Elite and go Punk.

Young talent does want to listen to Punk. Look at Collision. Don’t believe the Elite/Meltzer myths.

Punk’s the only difference-maker in that company and he’s constantly fucked with. I don’t know how he puts up with it.

Would the Wembley show be possible without Punk?

[xrodmuc316]

So apparently Punk saw this and that was what got him yelling at Tiny:

LrQjnM8Akz4

Punk felt this was bullshit after his travel issues snub. "Why did I have to ride a fucking train but you got a limo for him?" was his reaction.

[rez]

Punk was just offended that London's train wasn't as shitty as the Chicago L

[Mr. Nerfect]

So apparently Punk saw this and that was what got him yelling at Tiny:

LrQjnM8Akz4

Punk felt this was bullshit after his travel issues snub. "Why did I have to ride a fucking train but you got a limo for him?" was his reaction.

Holy shit, that’s so bush league. :lol:

From Jack Perry using Beethoven and having zero presence, to Hook being white bread. Lol at JR burying The Elite too.

[Mr. Nerfect]

AEW is the gift that just keeps giving…just not for the reasons they intend.

[Mr. Nerfect]

190lbs and a 39-day reign as FTW Champion. :lol:

[rez]

You all should be happy that Daddy Tony gives us a release of our endorphins...perhaps for all the wrong reasons, tho.

[Maluco]

AEW won’t improve without CM Punk. He is tightly wound and far too sensitive, but there is overwhelming evidence of terrible management and an extremely immature and cocky lockerroom. Like, who even is Jack Perry? Everyone is at it now after The Elite made it ok to not have any respect for veterans or want to learn anything at all about being a performer.

They will be stuck doing their meaningless super kick, no sell-fest long after the likes of Regal and Punk have been chased off. The company will not grow as it caters to a niche who consider whatever it is they do as professional wrestling. There is no control and no effort to make people better.

As a side, I get Powerhouse Hobbs, but why would anyone be afraid of Moxley? Lol

[Ben Rodrigues]

Yes. Who even is Jack Perry?

[Mr. Nerfect]

Y’all show some respect for one of the anointed Four Pillars of Professional Wrestling. He got that title because…well, it’s not his ring work or his promos. He’s going to be good one of these days, I swear.

[xrodmuc316]

Look, the hell with Jack Perry and the Elite. But let's not sit here and say without Punk AEW will never grow. They have had Punk for 2 years, and they have not grown. They have less viewers today than they had before Punk. They sell less tickets in North America than they did before they had Punk. The only thing Punk has helped them grow is their public drama.

All of that aside, the only real issue preventing any growth is the same issue they have always had, they do not have a boss, they have a money mark. What does it take to get fired from.AEW? Seriously, as long as you do not get accused of sexual assault (it is ok to talk about wanting to do it though), or you don't be a Spanish announcer with a hot mic being racist on the show, you are pretty much free to do whatever you want in AEW without losing your job. At worse, you will just get to sit home getting paid.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Imagine how much worse they would be doing without Punk. He’s also one of the few guys breathing any sense into anything. If they lose him, it’s way more Elite shenanigans. You’ll be getting the glass on Collision.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Tony Khan and the Wild West locker room is a huge, HUGE problem.

[Sepholio]

I think Seph is referring to thekrow as anti-vax :o

Everyone here knows that's who I was talking about. Everyone except for one person. More proof that smooth brains flock to Punks defense.

[GD]

CM Punk reunited with his idol / locker room leader, John Bradshaw Layfield.

https://i.redd.it/m7t3zgyu3alb1.jpg

[Sepholio]

JBL: told you it wasnt that bad in the fed.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Everyone here knows that's who I was talking about. Everyone except for one person. More proof that smooth brains flock to Punks defense.

You’re a muppet. The point is that you can’t extrapolate that to be a generalization. Especially when The Elite camp has pieces of shit like Chris Jericho and The Young Bucks in it. Check the glass house you’re in, buddy.

[GD]

Wow! He really got you there, Seph :roll:

[xrodmuc316]

Just because a bunch of assholes are assholes, that does not make a bitter asshole the asshole savior.

[XL]

Everyone here knows that's who I was talking about. Everyone except for one person. More proof that smooth brains flock to Punks defense.

Noid knew who you were talking about. He didn’t say otherwise. You just missed the point he was making.

[Sepholio]

Noid knew who you were talking about. He didn’t say otherwise. You just missed the point he was making.

I didn't miss the point. I intentionally made that remark knowing Noid would take the bait.

Ironically, you're kind of proving the point of my post.

[Sepholio]

Like, did you see Noid get defensive and puff his chest up at a post he knows was tongue-in-cheek and directly specifically at thekrow? Did anyone else point out they are pro-science and pro-vax? Or did everyone else know that post wasn't about them and was clearly just meant to shit talk a specific person?

[Sepholio]

Does anyone here even think that I seriously meant all Punk marks are idiots? Anyone at all? Show of hands so I know who to laugh at.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Did you think my reply was completely serious? You just punched yourself in the nuts to…show me, I guess?

[drave]

Rasslin is very serious business.

[xrodmuc316]

Wembley leaked footage:


<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3QKqfJSlCig?si=FOvPE3VMBGE7fzq0&amp;start=26" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[XL]

I didn't miss the point. I intentionally made that remark knowing Noid would take the bait.

Ironically, you're kind of proving the point of my post.

:roll:

[GD]

Actually, I was the mastermind behind the whole goof. Please direct all praises towards me. Thanks <3

[GD]

CM Punk received validation from Roddy Piper and Dusty Rhodes. He doesn't care about basement dwelling neckbeards.

"Roddy Piper is the reason I’m a wrestler today and I remember the last time I saw him, he told me he was proud of me. So when people tell me that they don’t like me or the internet’s mad at me. I just kind of chuckle because Roddy Piper liked me, Dusty Rhodes loved me...

[XL]

Actually, I was the mastermind behind the whole goof. Please direct all praises towards me. Thanks <3
What?

[GD]

I was the one behind everything that transpired between Seph and Noid. It was all part of the plan.

https://thumbs.gfycat.com/AchingGeneralHookersealion-size_restricted.gif

[GD]

I really hope they release the backstage footage from ALL IN.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">There is footage of the incident that took place between CM Punk &amp; Jack Perry at AEW All In, as there are cameras all over Wembley.<br><br>(Fightful Select). <a href="https://t.co/goGs0iHbUS">pic.twitter.com/goGs0iHbUS</a></p>&mdash; Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) <a href="https://twitter.com/WrestleOps/status/1697289685234561033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[GD]

CM Punk is having the time of his life

https://i.redd.it/zfbfcwoxrhlb1.jpg

https://i.redd.it/gbmafksljelb1.jpg

[Mr. Nerfect]

Apparently there is footage of the fight. Somehow I don’t think anti-Punkers are going to accept evidence though.

[Ben Rodrigues]

Even if the footage shows Punk was in the right, nothing will be done from a disciplinary perspective.

Watched Booker T comment on the situation yesterday stating that everyone should understand their position in pecking order and that Punk was brought into be the quarterback. I imagine a lot of the harassment/bullying (if we can call it that) that CM Punk is experiencing stems from people not wanting to accept this.

[xrodmuc316]

If Punk was brought in to be the quarterback and leader, maybe he should find a better way to deal with issues than just fighting people...

[GD]

I really hope they release the backstage footage from ALL IN.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">There is footage of the incident that took place between CM Punk &amp; Jack Perry at AEW All In, as there are cameras all over Wembley.<br><br>(Fightful Select). <a href="https://t.co/goGs0iHbUS">pic.twitter.com/goGs0iHbUS</a></p>&mdash; Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) <a href="https://twitter.com/WrestleOps/status/1697289685234561033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Apparently there is footage of the fight. Somehow I don’t think anti-Punkers are going to accept evidence though.

Why do you feel compelled to post in a thread that you don't approve of and can't see half of the posts of? Show some restraint!

[Mr. Nerfect]

If Punk was brought in to be the quarterback and leader, maybe he should find a better way to deal with issues than just fighting people...

There should be systematic failsafes in place to stop Adam Page going out there and burying you on television, The Bucks barging into your private locker room, Jungle Boy going into business for himself then getting in your face…but there aren’t. Punk’s tried getting people to leave, other management has taken up the cause, I’m sure lots of words have been exchanged with Tony. We even have that article where Punk said he has tried to reach out but gets ignored, which The Elkte declined to comment on.

I get the CM Punk hate-boner, but he’s not the bad guy in this situation.

[GD]

Don't forget Booker T going into business for himself when he threw trash on the floor when Punk declared himself as the locker room leader. Need more fairlsafes.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Even if the footage shows Punk was in the right, nothing will be done from a disciplinary perspective.

Watched Booker T comment on the situation yesterday stating that everyone should understand their position in pecking order and that Punk was brought into be the quarterback. I imagine a lot of the harassment/bullying (if we can call it that) that CM Punk is experiencing stems from people not wanting to accept this.

I think you can call it that. I’ve seen people swing around the “when you meet an asshole, it’s them, but if you meet assholes all day, then it’s you” thing. Anyone that has seen workplace politics in play know that’s total fucking bullshit.

If Bret Hart got into a fight with Scott Hall. Then he got into a fight with Sean Waltman. Then he had words with Justin Credible. Then he got into a scuffle with Paul Diamond. Imagine writing off the problem as Bret Hart.

[GD]

Or when Taker lost his shite on Punk for dressing and smelling like a hobo while he was the World's Heavyweight Champion. He went so into business for himself that he buried Punk in one of the most forgettable HIAC matches of all time.

https://www.wwe.com/f/styles/gallery_img_l/public/photo/image/2009/10/11928022.jpg

[GD]

<iframe width="356" height="200" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1hZbpmJXp1k" title="CM Punk Accepts CAC Iron Mike Mazurki Award Aug 30 2023" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Ben Rodrigues]

I think you can call it that. I’ve seen people swing around the “when you meet an asshole, it’s them, but if you meet assholes all day, then it’s you” thing. Anyone that has seen workplace politics in play know that’s total fucking bullshit.

If Bret Hart got into a fight with Scott Hall. Then he got into a fight with Sean Waltman. Then he had words with Justin Credible. Then he got into a scuffle with Paul Diamond. Imagine writing off the problem as Bret Hart.

Ooh, solid comparison.

[Ben Rodrigues]

<iframe width="356" height="200" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1hZbpmJXp1k" title="CM Punk Accepts CAC Iron Mike Mazurki Award Aug 30 2023" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Thanks for this!

Just finished - how can anyone not like this man? Honest, self-deprecating with respect for those who came before him.

[Mr. Nerfect]

I’ve got about 8 mins left, but I’m surprised I stuck around for the speech. Good stuff. Punk is charming, warm and funny. He’s a bigger man that me too for giving Val Venis his professional props.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Lol! Meltzer is claiming that a “neutral source” (one that just happens to contact Dave Meltzer. A non-wrestling person who happened to be in gorilla, mind you, and witnessed the whoooooole thing said Punk got in Perry‘s face aggressively asking him if he’s got a problem. Perry said he was just trying to get heat as a heel (this would be absolute bullshit, by the way). Punk then shoved Perry, sucker punched him after Perry got in his face (not sure that counts as a sucker punch, but anyway), then choked Perry. Punk then LUNGED at Tony Khan and told him “I quit!” as wrestlers were holding him back.

Fucking amazing.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Punk then killed and ate his own dog in front of everyone.

[Big Vic]

#LiveTheGimmick

[Ben Rodrigues]

Lol! Meltzer is claiming that a “neutral source” (one that just happens to contact Dave Meltzer. A non-wrestling person who happened to be in gorilla, mind you, and witnessed the whoooooole thing said Punk got in Perry‘s face aggressively asking him if he’s got a problem. Perry said he was just trying to get heat as a heel (this would be absolute bullshit, by the way). Punk then shoved Perry, sucker punched him after Perry got in his face (not sure that counts as a sucker punch, but anyway), then choked Perry. Punk then LUNGED at Tony Khan and told him “I quit!” as wrestlers were holding him back.

Fucking amazing.

:rofl:

[Splaya]

Lol! Meltzer is claiming that a “neutral source” (one that just happens to contact Dave Meltzer. A non-wrestling person who happened to be in gorilla, mind you, and witnessed the whoooooole thing said Punk got in Perry‘s face aggressively asking him if he’s got a problem. Perry said he was just trying to get heat as a heel (this would be absolute bullshit, by the way). Punk then shoved Perry, sucker punched him after Perry got in his face (not sure that counts as a sucker punch, but anyway), then choked Perry. Punk then LUNGED at Tony Khan and told him “I quit!” as wrestlers were holding him back.

Fucking amazing.

haha. True or not, that is fucking awesome.

I would have loved to have seen what the ultimate CM Punk fan boy would have done if Punk had hit him in the face :lol:

[Splaya]

"Guys he was going to hug me for helping him with Jack and it just happened that when he Brought his arm around it hit me in the eye"

[Ol Dirty Dastard]

Dave "No Ulterior Motives And Only Neutral Sources" Meltzer.

[GD]

And then Perry got choked.

[GD]

I wonder if Punk would be brave enough to get into Goldberg's face if he felt wronged...

[GD]

Here's the problem. Even if he is managing children, he's simply a wrestler that is acting in the role of a boss.

Here is the way All In should have went down.

Jack Perry does his bullshit line. Instead of Tony acting like a fan, he should know that would set Punk off. So rather than letting Punk get to Perry first, Tony meets him at the curtain, tells him to get to his locker room and keeps the two separated.

But, Tony has shown from time and time again that he cannot manage a roster. Any one of us could be funded like how Tony is with his dad and run a product on TV. But controlling the talent in a boss type way needed to be done from day one.

Installing Cody and the Elite as EVP's wasn't the worst thing in the world. But if you notice, all of the people that Punk has a problem with are the ones that have either been their since day one, or people that are closely connected to the elite. And don't get it twisted, the people that have been there since day one have more than likely been kissing The Elite's ass since they arrived.

Punk coming in was never going to be roses and rainbows because The Elite knew he was going to be a bigger draw than what they were. Ratings may not reflect that but ratings are shit with everything now a days. But merch sales...that's the true reflection in the business as to how people are perceived.

Point is, I don't condone what Punk has done. It's been childish and immature. But it's almost like he's backed into a corner with these idiots and the only way out at times is to lash out and fight back, whether it be verbal or physical.

That last line from Splaya is spot on and what I've been saying. So is his part of what "should" have happened.

Again, I hate to use Vince as an example but he would have probably done exactly what Splaya said or had one of his right hand men do it and never let it get to that level. Say what you want about him but it was well understood the HE was the boss and should not be crossed.

Punk is not absolved for his actions but the entire state of the locker room is TK's fault.

Quality points.

[GD]

https://i.redd.it/m1cu25m4onlb1.jpg

[drave]

haha. True or not, that is fucking awesome.

I would have loved to have seen what the ultimate CM Punk fan boy would have done if Punk had hit him in the face :lol:




Even TK would laugh at the soft punch. :shifty:

[xrodmuc316]

<iframe width="356" height="200" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1hZbpmJXp1k" title="CM Punk Accepts CAC Iron Mike Mazurki Award Aug 30 2023" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Phil getting an award named after a guy called IRON?!? WTF man lol

[Lock Jaw]

Petition to change the thread title to "The Official CM Drama thread"

[drave]

The official soft-rasslers thread.

[Lock Jaw]

S-A-W-F-T

Saaaaaaaaawft

[drave]

If Enzo had a dime for everytime Phil was soft..... he'd have INFINITE DIMES!




https://media.tenor.com/3nPfsaRZhBQAAAAC/enzo-amore-dance.gif

[Loose Cannon]

I was just coming here to make a thread about this. I was going to ask what is wrong with this guy? Is this a worked shoot or something where he just pisses off everyone in the lockeroom?

If this is not some wrestling angle then seriously what's wrong with this dude? lol. It seems like wrestlers either love him or despise him with no in between

[Destor]

I was just coming here to make a thread about this. I was going to ask what is wrong with this guy? Is this a worked shoot or something where he just pisses off everyone in the lockeroom?

If this is not some wrestling angle then seriously what's wrong with this dude? lol. It seems like wrestlers either love him or despise him with no in between

Every company he works for its the same story and yet somehow its never his fault.

[Ben Rodrigues]

Reflecting on the three threads about CM Punk, it's clear that people have chosen sides and no amount of debating will change anyone's mind.

Rrgardless of what we think of him, watching him accept that award it's clear he's won at life. He's happily married,baccomplished his dreams, has friends who love him and obtained the respect/"seal of approval" of the wrestling legends he grew up admiring.

He also appears to be happy that he's been able to impart advice to younger wrestlers who are willing to take it on and with the positive impact he's has on the lives of his fans. It's clear he wanted to give back to the business as someone who's drawn money by providingbadvice like those before him did for him (there's an interview with Hobbs who talks about CM Punk sitting down with him after every match and reviewing his with him work). Alas, not everyone is going to be receptive.

It's a bigger conversation around human needs/values. If you're someone who's highest values are needing to feel certainty along with important and you have this guy come in who is influential and in many ways minimises your work/contributions you're going to feel threatened and want to do what you can to fulfil/restore those needs. On the other hand, if your highest needs/values are more around growth you might be more receptive to what Punk has to offer.

I've oversimplified this but I can empathise with how some of the "AEW Originals" might be feeling.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Dave "No Ulterior Motives And Only Neutral Sources" Meltzer.

When he said it came from a Neutral Source, he meant that “Neutral Source” is the gamer tag Brandon Cutler uses.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Dave "No Ulterior Motives And Only Neutral Sources" Meltzer.

I was just coming here to make a thread about this. I was going to ask what is wrong with this guy? Is this a worked shoot or something where he just pisses off everyone in the lockeroom?

If this is not some wrestling angle then seriously what's wrong with this dude? lol. It seems like wrestlers either love him or despise him with no in between

Jealousy is a hell of a thing. Punk came in, moved the needle (going deeper than ratings, it’s pretty widely accepted Punk has been good for AEW’s business) and actually mentored talent. He’s also got strong political opinions and came in to give his honest opinion on the product and how it can improve. It’s like hiring a Jim Cornette who is active in the ring. A lot of the roster wants to be in denial about what is possible, what is good and told that their shit don’t stink.

Punk’s big issues have been around The Elite’s camp, who were immediately handed power and have had an “everything is awesome” approach that has been threatened by someone coming in and pointing out there is actually an effective and ineffective way to do this. And Tony Khan won’t let the side with evidence on its side stand, he’s trying to embolden everyone and that’s allowing the party in the wrong to continue to fuck with people’s shit.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Reflecting on the three threads about CM Punk, it's clear that people have chosen sides and no amount of debating will change anyone's mind.

Rrgardless of what we think of him, watching him accept that award it's clear he's won at life. He's happily married,baccomplished his dreams, has friends who love him and obtained the respect/"seal of approval" of the wrestling legends he grew up admiring.

He also appears to be happy that he's been able to impart advice to younger wrestlers who are willing to take it on and with the positive impact he's has on the lives of his fans. It's clear he wanted to give back to the business as someone who's drawn money by providingbadvice like those before him did for him (there's an interview with Hobbs who talks about CM Punk sitting down with him after every match and reviewing his with him work). Alas, not everyone is going to be receptive.

It's a bigger conversation around human needs/values. If you're someone who's highest values are needing to feel certainty along with important and you have this guy come in who is influential and in many ways minimises your work/contributions you're going to feel threatened and want to do what you can to fulfil/restore those needs. On the other hand, if your highest needs/values are more around growth you might be more receptive to what Punk has to offer.

I've oversimplified this but I can empathise with how some of the "AEW Originals" might be feeling.

Great fucking post.

[Mr. Nerfect]

If AEW were a nuclear power plant, CM Punk would be Frank Grimes and The Elite would be Homer.

[Ben Rodrigues]

If AEW were a nuclear power plant, CM Punk would be Frank Grimes and The Elite would be Homer.

Haha nice

[Ben Rodrigues]

“When people tell me that they don’t like me or that the internet is mad at me, I just chuckle because Roddy Piper liked me. Dusty Rhodes liked me and Harley Race liked me. And that means more than anything else in the world because these legends put their stamp on me before anyone else did. It gave me the confidence and it gave me the ability to succeed.” - CM Punk

Inspiring stuff.

[xrodmuc316]

How about CM Phil got his ass beat so embarrassingly twice in UFC, that he should have never been given a top spot, or at the very least not a bad ass kick everybody's ass gimmick.

The fact that he has got into fights with the 3 weakest dudes who are playing wrestlers is proof he at least learned one lesson from UFC, dont get tough with anybody unless they are literal sheltered California gymnast.

[GD]

https://i.imgur.com/1zDnbVZ.png

[Ben Rodrigues]

As a massive UFC fan, I don't even care about CM Punk's UFC run. Got a couple of nice entrances and video packages. He started in his late 30s. Anyone who knows anything about MMA wasn't expecting much. As far as UFC goes, he's an after thought.

They're different worlds. People watch AEW and accept Orange Cassidy's leg kicks and defend the clearly fake stuff a lot of the are the same people who come after CM Punk and his performances in the UFC. I can buy though him training MMA for years at this point with top MMA talent, he'd be able to defend himself in a fight.

[GD]

Should we celebrate the fact that CM Punk tried his luck in UFC despite not being talented enough? Or should we just call a spade a spade? I wonder if he was delusional enough to believe he'd have the same amount of success as Lesnar.

[Ol Dirty Dastard]

If AEW were a nuclear power plant, CM Punk would be Frank Grimes and The Elite would be Homer.

If AEW were Tool Time, CM Punk would be Al and the Elite would be Tim.

[Ben Rodrigues]

I think it's cool that he was willing to do something that he wanted to do knowing that if he was exposed (which he was) there would be people who would criticise him. In a world where people care way too much about the voices and opinions on the outside, it's refreshing to watch someone put themselves out there like that in order to fulfil a desire he had. More people would be happier and more fulfilled if they went after what they wanted.

He started in his late 30s with no MMA background in a league with people having trained since they were children. He wasn't going to be Brock. WWE/AEW talent in the same situation would have gotten the same results.

[Lock Jaw]

If AEW were Tool Time, CM Punk would be Al and the Elite would be Tim.

More superkicks! Ho-ho-ho-ho-ho-ho-ho!

[Mr. Nerfect]

How about CM Phil got his ass beat so embarrassingly twice in UFC, that he should have never been given a top spot, or at the very least not a bad ass kick everybody's ass gimmick.

The fact that he has got into fights with the 3 weakest dudes who are playing wrestlers is proof he at least learned one lesson from UFC, dont get tough with anybody unless they are literal sheltered California gymnast.

And he can legitimately whoop the entire AEW roster. I can think of them as different disciplines, but the “CM Punk is a bad fighter” argument is clearly not holding weight in AEW. You’ve got to turn it on every bitch in that locker room.

[Mr. Nerfect]

If AEW were Tool Time, CM Punk would be Al and the Elite would be Tim.

Ooh, that’s a good one. Now I want to see a lost Home Improvement episode where Al whoops Jonathan Taylor Thomas’ ass for getting out of line. Wilson is Jim Ross who hides his face because he’s ashamed to be involved.

[GD]

And he can legitimately whoop the entire AEW roster. I can think of them as different disciplines, but the “CM Punk is a bad fighter” argument is clearly not holding weight in AEW. You’ve got to turn it on every bitch in that locker room.

While there's some merit to what Noid is saying, I'd say Punk's in-ring work has been subpar as far his AEW run is concerned.

[Frank Drebin]

Look, Punk represents what I want in wrestling which is a major reason why I'm on team Punk. Whether he's an ass hat or not he knows wrestling, wrestling history and respects it. The style he preferres is what I prefer and when he's around we get more of that.

I'm not a fan of cartoon characters, flippidy shit, kicking out after a devastating piledriver on a chair, blood in every match and all that. I want stories and rivalries that pull me in. Telling and advancing those stories while in the ring during matches. I don't feel I get that with what The Elite or TK do on their own. Its just matches thrown out there because "it'll be a good match". There's little in the way of build and its all over after a couple of weeks.

I want Punk there because he knows what people like me want and I don't want that to go away from AEW. The structure is there where the best in wrestling can happen which can't always be done in the WWE format. If Punk leaves again, more opportunities will be missed and it sucks when those go by the wayside.

[GD]

Rhodes seems to be doing a better version of that at the moment.

[Frank Drebin]

It's around in pockets. Would be nice if it was all in one place.

[GD]

I do have a preference for your style of storytelling, Franky D. But I'd be lying if I don't get excited by Osprey and Omega matches. I like that pro wrestling isn't a monolith and can cater to different people with talents like Cassidy and Punk on the same show.

[Destor]

Nothing wrong with being a punk fan. I was team punk on this board when he was still in RoH. I remember his big summerslam moment with DX and Kane Knight saying it was a fluke. I said then he would be a star if they stayed out of his way and let him get himself over.

Do i champion him post ufc? Absolutely not. Its a bad look. But i get why a person would like its work. If he had any credibility left id enjoy it too. And if all we had to go on was punk going out and putting the work in there'd be no drama. His work would shine above everyone elses and theyd freely choose to model themselves after his example strictly because they want his success for themsevles. Thats what being a role model is.

But thats not what he does. And what i cant get behind is his corrosive personality. Whats happening with punk now is no different than when punk was trying to be a leader in the wwf. He wants to stand in front of the boys and puff his chest out like he's the man cept now not only does everyone know he's a work but theyre not in company ran by adults. So there's no reason to not tell him to shut the fuck up and go sit in the corner and if it blows up from there so what?

Good leaders lead and people follow good leaders because theyre worth following. If you need to stand up and yell and demand they get in line then you arent fit for the job. Good locker room leaders are organically elected by sheer force of merit. You dont roll around in the floor like a toddler until you get your way, or in this case your own time slot.

No one wants to follow him. What greater indictment do you need?

[Sting Fan]

Nothing wrong with being a punk fan. I was team punk on this board when he was still in RoH. I remember his big summerslam moment with DX and Kane Knight saying it was a fluke. I said then he would be a star if they stayed out of his way and let him get himself over.

Do i champion him post ufc? Absolutely not. Its a bad look. But i get why a person would like its work. If he had any credibility left id enjoy it too. And if all we had to go on was punk going out and putting the work in there'd be no drama. His work would shine above everyone elses and theyd freely choose to model themselves after his example strictly because they want his success for themsevles. Thats what being a role model is.

But thats not what he does. And what i cant get behind is his corrosive personality. Whats happening with punk now is no different than when punk was trying to be a leader in the wwf. He wants to stand in front of the boys and puff his chest out like he's the man cept now not only does everyone know he's a work but theyre not in company ran by adults. So there's no reason to not tell him to shut the fuck up and go sit in the corner and if it blows up from there so what?

Good leaders lead and people follow good leaders because theyre worth following. If you need to stand up and yell and demand they get in line then you arent fit for the job. Good locker room leaders are organically elected by sheer force of merit. You dont roll around in the floor like a toddler until you get your way, or in this case your own time slot.

No one wants to follow him. What greater indictment do you need?

Some people want to follow him, and thats fine. But largely I agree with your point.

Apart from the return excitement and his feud with MJF I cant think of a lot of his thats stood out right now. A part of me is glad hes not facing Starks at the PPV, I would like to see Starks win not lose.

[Destor]

Zero was definitely hyperbole on my part

[Frank Drebin]

You're right in that AEW isn't run by adults. That goes into a TON of this.

People do want to follow him though. FTR, Starks, Hobbs, House of Black, Miro. Joe and Andrade are all who wanted to go work with him on Collision. I'm sure there are more.

[Ol Dirty Dastard]

Punk's shit in WWE isn't part of this "common denominator" discussion. I'd argue he got along pretty friggin well there to get where he got. I know he was very Punk-esque on his way up and rubbed some people the wrong way, but he had a legit run there and made nice with the right people long enough to carve a legacy.

The thing is - and this is what someone like Destor will never understand because he thinks the moment you sign a contract, you're a slave - he eventually got tired of eating shit. So he walked out. People do it every day. For some reason, in wrestling, you're just expected to suck your boss's cock, even if he's the worst human alive. Punk got sick of it, walked out, and the drama ensued. But that doesn't detract from the LENGTHY successful run he had, which would have necessitated him getting along.

The AEW run is a different beast. He's run out of fucks to give, and he's got the leverage and power to do what the fuck he wants. On top of that, he clearly thrives on conflict, which should be harnessed in pro wrestling. Tony doesn't know how to do that because he's a Kendall Roy-esque nepo-baby and not an actual leader.

And to act like Punk is some common denominator and the Elite aren't is ridiculous. There's been non-stop rumblings of their general shittiness. The difference? They're passive-aggressive twerps (much like their Uncle Dave). Passive aggression doesn't quite make for the most salacious headlines, though. But if you're an aggressive guy like Punk, the passive aggression will PISS YOUR THE FUCK OFF, and you'll start looking for trouble. And that's when the headlines start.

I'm not saying Punk is reasonable, but I don't think he's any more unreasonable than some of our favorite pro wrestlers of the past. Hell, I'll cop to him being a total diva (lmfao, do with that what you will), but I'm fine with that.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Punk's shit in WWE isn't part of this "common denominator" discussion. I'd argue he got along pretty friggin well there to get where he got. I know he was very Punk-esque on his way up and rubbed some people the wrong way, but he had a legit run there and made nice with the right people long enough to carve a legacy.

The thing is - and this is what someone like Destor will never understand because he thinks the moment you sign a contract, you're a slave - he eventually got tired of eating shit. So he walked out. People do it every day. For some reason, in wrestling, you're just expected to suck your boss's cock, even if he's the worst human alive. Punk got sick of it, walked out, and the drama ensued. But that doesn't detract from the LENGTHY successful run he had, which would have necessitated him getting along.

The AEW run is a different beast. He's run out of fucks to give, and he's got the leverage and power to do what the fuck he wants. On top of that, he clearly thrives on conflict, which should be harnessed in pro wrestling. Tony doesn't know how to do that because he's a Kendall Roy-esque nepo-baby and not an actual leader.

And to act like Punk is some common denominator and the Elite aren't is ridiculous. There's been non-stop rumblings of their general shittiness. The difference? They're passive-aggressive twerps (much like their Uncle Dave). Passive aggression doesn't quite make for the most salacious headlines, though. But if you're an aggressive guy like Punk, the passive aggression will PISS YOUR THE FUCK OFF, and you'll start looking for trouble. And that's when the headlines start.

I'm not saying Punk is reasonable, but I don't think he's any more unreasonable than some of our favorite pro wrestlers of the past. Hell, I'll cop to him being a total diva (lmfao, do with that what you will), but I'm fine with that.

Excellent post. :y:

[Mr. Nerfect]

Dude was in the WWE system for almost a decade without much incident besides some disrespectful quips to Tony Atlas. WWE didn’t exactly shit-can him for having a bad attitude. He left.

[Frank Drebin]

Excellent post. :y:

+1

[Destor]

"Once you sign a contract youre slave"

Such a weird statement. Id chop it up to a lack of understanding but i dont think thats the case. More like a clear ad hominiem. In the spririt of not having a grasp on my stance:

Slaves cant break the contract. Once you sign a contract you are however bound to the terms. Which covers if you sever the contract. Why anyone would think the penal portion of the contract shouldnt be observed is beyond me.

If you dont like your situation absolutely walk. Just be ready for your pre-mutually agreed obligations ex post facto. If thats slavery then the south shouldve won.

[Destor]

And ftr none of that was his wwf drama i was referring to

[Sepholio]

THE SOUTH SHALL RISE AGAIN

[Frank Drebin]

Destor is a slave 2 dance numbers in movies.

[Stu Hart]

According to Fightful : there is video footage of Punk vs Perry and then Tony . It exists! now to wait for a leak

[Vastardikai]

I am not convinced at thos point that, if he did indeed go after Tony, Punk said something along the line of "get your fucking people in line!"

[Bad News Gertner]

CM Punk has been released

[GD]

Aye lmao

https://i.redd.it/y2bc41remwlb1.jpg

[GD]

They've removed him from the roster page as well

https://i.redd.it/q5pdorj2nwlb1.png

[Frank Drebin]

God damnit

[Stu Hart]

Aye lmao

https://i.redd.it/y2bc41remwlb1.jpg

I think its the right move for Tony.

CM Punk has been tarnished after the first incident. He is on a knifes edge when it comes to the Elite so I think he just wasnt going to fit in.

[GD]

Couldn't happen to a nicer guy :roll: Well, at least he got to go out as the real world champion.

https://i.redd.it/y2bc41remwlb1.jpg

[Frank Drebin]

Welp, going to watch Daenerys Targaryen burn down Kings Landing tomorrow. It makes no sense and we see it coming but might as well see it through.

[GD]

Punk has burned so many bridges, I wonder who will let him air his grievances on their podcast.

[Lock Jaw]

R.I.P. AEW

#ShutItDown

[Sepholio]

LOL womp womp womp waaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhh

[GD]

Well, at least Roddy Piper and Dusty Rhodes loved him. He's got that going for him.

[DaveWadding]

https://i.ibb.co/1rpqw4Y/Grid-Art-20230902-140826325.jpg (https://ibb.co/tqNsW1w)

[Frank Drebin]

Letting the inmates run the asylum, just like WCW. Being on Turner networks, just like WCW. Tony Schiavone, Chris Jericho, Sting, Jeff Jarrett, Dennis Rodman. Just like WCW. We all know how that ended up.

[GD]

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h-tI_KrG59Q?si=IhsM296bfQXZuvSu&amp;start=124" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[GD]

Letting the inmates run the asylum, just like WCW. Being on Turner networks, just like WCW. Tony Schiavone, Chris Jericho, Sting, Jeff Jarrett, Dennis Rodman. Just like WCW. We all know how that ended up.

https://media.tenor.com/oL8wTZAL86gAAAAC/cm-punk.gif

[DaveWadding]

I wish that CM Punk the great wrestler and Phil Brooks, asshole co-worker were different people.

[Frank Drebin]

I'm more interested to see if the crowd will hijack tonight and tomorrow's shows rather than all the mid card matches. AEW hasn't had to deal with the fans turning in the product yet.

[Sepholio]

I'm more interested to see if the crowd will hijack tonight and tomorrow's shows rather than all the mid card matches. AEW hasn't had to deal with the fans turning in the product yet.

Dude I am expecting this to be the most nuclear crowd ever and I am actually hyped at the prospect. This could be some quality entertainment in a weird sort of way.

[GD]

I'm more interested to see if the crowd will hijack tonight and tomorrow's shows rather than all the mid card matches. AEW hasn't had to deal with the fans turning in the product yet.

It's inconsequential in the grand scheme of things. Crowds would chant "CM Punk" in protest during WWE shows and it surmounted to absolutely nothing. If anything, Stephanie McMahon got a quality zinger in.

[Ben Rodrigues]

LOL. Oh well - I'm done with AEW.

[GD]

https://i.redd.it/dckg0wfoqwlb1.gif?width=625&format=mp4&6fb89074

[Sting Fan]

I'm a bit surprised but I don't think its a negative longterm tbh. I assume the Chicago crowd will push back and make the next few events there uncomfortable, but so be it.

The amount of time and energy being spent on this stuff back stage must be immense. I dont believe the idea that Punks right and everyone else is the issue, I think its closer to plenty of fault to go around but lets say Punks 100% in the right always, this is still the best outcome for both parties.

[Sting Fan]

I am super curious to see if some of the more out there stuff comes to fruition now.

Collision was all Punk so the network will drop it, ratings dives... heck in some of the weirder parts of the internet AEW will now fold inside 6 months like they didnt achieve all they achieved without Punk.

[Sepholio]

I'm a bit surprised but I don't think its a negative longterm tbh. I assume the Chicago crowd will push back and make the next few events there uncomfortable, but so be it.

The amount of time and energy being spent on this stuff back stage must be immense. I dont believe the idea that Punks right and everyone else is the issue, I think its closer to plenty of fault to go around but lets say Punks 100% in the right always, this is still the best outcome for both parties.

Absolutely the best outcome for all parties. Couldn't agree with more with that.

In terms of the crowd, if they go full thermonuclear and really ruin stuff then AEW will probably just not run Chicago again past whatever dates they've already set.

[Sepholio]

Which that would be fine too because let's be honest: they run Chicago way too often.

[xrodmuc316]

Tiny at home crying his favorite toy turned out to be an asshole, while he let his best toy leave. He wasted millions of his daddy's money and the only draw his company ever had is Main Eventing for the FEDBAD team.

Couldn't have happened to a more spastic guy :rofl:

[Frank Drebin]

I hope everyone liked late stage WCW Thunder.

[slik]

Hate this

[slik]

Collision tickets just came on sale yesterday for me too....not interested in going now that Punk is gone

[GD]

I hope everyone liked late stage WCW Thunder.

lol Drebin cousin come onnnnnn cheer up

[GD]

<iframe width="356" height="200" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-kYf3kTP2u8" title="jon moxley: &quot;you should enjoy cm punk while he's here because he's not going to be here much longer&quot;" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[GD]

On a serious note, Punk needs to step away from the industry for the sake of his well-being. This level of toxicity is only going to make him even more miserable.

[Evil Vito]

https://imageproxy.ifunny.co/crop:x-20,resize:640x,quality:90x75/images/7291adc59b72e1aee283fee945c79e388a95e0f2c2c1ceb85bcf8d7e027d6308_1.jpg

[ClockShot]

Surprised Tony had the balls to cut him loose.

Might sound stupid, but I really hope he learns from this.

[Vastardikai]

The worst part of the Punk vs Elite drama was that, eventually, one of them was gonna win. When the EVPs got new contracts, the writing was on the wall as to who that would be.

The fallout will be interesting, though. Tomorrow will be fun.

[Mr. Nerfect]

LolAEW

[Mr. Nerfect]

They’re going to reap what they’ve sowed.

[GD]

They’re going to reap what they’ve sowed.

A recipe for success no doubt

[Sepholio]

I think the important question is now that Punks gone, which toy does Tony Cokhan start random chants for in gorilla?

[GD]

Goooooooldbergggg...

[Sepholio]

Oh God don't put that in the aether please.

[slik]

Mercedes and Adam Copeland's asking price just went up a bit

[DaveWadding]

I think the important question is now that Punks gone, which toy does Tony Cokhan start random chants for in gorilla?

TK in Gorilla, but it's a race between him and Omega on who finishes first during the giant masturbatory monologue they put Justin Roberts through every time Omega is announced.

[Mr. Nerfect]

There is no artistic integrity in AEW. It doesn’t matter who they do or don’t get.

[Mr. Nerfect]

I’m interested to see if there’s any fall out in the locker room. I sure as hell wouldn’t feel comfortable working there.

[Vastardikai]

Mercedes and Adam Copeland's asking price just went up a bit

I doubt Mercedes signs. She is a better worker than Britt. And a bigger star. Britt will mess with her worse than she did Rosa.

[Evil Vito]

https://i.imgur.com/tqzjzad_d.webp?maxwidth=760&fidelity=grand

[slik]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tony Khan out before tonight’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AEWCollision?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AEWCollision</a> to talk to us about firing CM Punk today. The crowd is so loud and booing him that we can barely hear him speak.</p>&mdash; Cassidy Haynes of Bodyslam.net (@Casshooole) <a href="https://twitter.com/Casshooole/status/1698122188618895675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[xrodmuc316]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tony Khan out before tonight’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AEWCollision?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AEWCollision</a> to talk to us about firing CM Punk today. The crowd is so loud and booing him that we can barely hear him speak.</p>&mdash; Cassidy Haynes of Bodyslam.net (@Casshooole) <a href="https://twitter.com/Casshooole/status/1698122188618895675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The promo:
STOP IT CHICAGO! I AM FROM HERE TOO AND PHIL WAS MY FRIEND BUT I HAD TO OK!?! JUST BE NICE TO ME I LOST MY FAVORITE TOY AND ITS NOT FAIR!!!!!! DAAAAAAAAD!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!

[Mr. Nerfect]

I’d be surprised if AEW put Sasha on TV if she wasn’t signed, but it is AEW. She seems to be friends with Punk. I’d imagine she would have liked to have been a Collision girl. Welp. I hope some of the talented folks have escape clauses into their contracts if they have signed.

FTR are going to be hammered if they team with The Bucks.

[Mr. Nerfect]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tony Khan out before tonight’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AEWCollision?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AEWCollision</a> to talk to us about firing CM Punk today. The crowd is so loud and booing him that we can barely hear him speak.</p>&mdash; Cassidy Haynes of Bodyslam.net (@Casshooole) <a href="https://twitter.com/Casshooole/status/1698122188618895675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Good. Kill the market for them. Tony has handled everything so poorly.

[Lock Jaw]

There is no artistic integrity in AEW. It doesn’t matter who they do or don’t get.

You need artistic integrity in artistic combat

[Mr. Nerfect]

AEW isn’t artistic combat. It is slapstick.

[Maluco]

Did Moxley bleed on the statement?

[Mr. Nerfect]

He bled when his buddies texted him that they got rid of Punk.

[GD]

Yikes! I'm glad he was let go.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="pt" dir="ltr">AEW GM <a href="https://twitter.com/TonyKhan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TonyKhan</a> opens <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AEWCollision?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AEWCollision</a> <a href="https://t.co/1UeMHipSsu">pic.twitter.com/1UeMHipSsu</a></p>&mdash; AEW on TV (@AEWonTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/AEWonTV/status/1698125129572651516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[xrodmuc316]

He feared for his life

LOL ok this whole thing has to be a work. Punk gonna be showing up like Matt Hardy attacking Edge after Lita. TK is a weirdo, but this feels way too fake.

[Ben Rodrigues]

The man needs to take some self-defence classes. Might help with him feeling safer in general.

Reminds me of when Brock threw the belt at Vince after his match. But instead of cowering, Vince looked like he was ready to fight. :lol:

[Loose Cannon]

Would be amazing if this was a storyline . Jack needs some heel heat and provoking Punk to get him fired would be the way to get it

[GD]

The man needs to take some self-defence classes. Might help with him feeling safer in general.

Reminds me of when Brock threw the belt at Vince after his match. But instead of cowering, Vince looked like he was ready to fight. :lol:

Self awareness > Bravado

[Mr. Nerfect]

It’s not a storyline. It would suck if it were a storyline. Guys, I was wrong. This has just gone too far. It’s important to know when wrestling gets too serious. Tony feared for his life. No one should ever be in that position, even if they’re a trust fund baby that fanned the flames that caused it and even said that sort of conflict is good. It may have taken a few instances of this sort of thing happening for it to personally affect Tony Khan and his lawyers so they don’t have to pay Punk out, but hopefully Tony is a new man — a true man — and will stamp out injustices in his locker room.

[Mr. Nerfect]

I can’t believe I ever supported a ruffian like CM Punk. Poor Jack Perry. My enjoyment of wrestling as a fan is one thing, but I’d much rather get a shitty product than hear that incompetence was met with consequences.

[Ben Rodrigues]

Not sure how reputable 411 Wrestling is, but they reported that Punk/Elite were meant to have a sit down before All In and clear things up. The Elite called it off because why not.

[GD]

It’s not a storyline. It would suck if it were a storyline. Guys, I was wrong. This has just gone too far. It’s important to know when wrestling gets too serious. Tony feared for his life. No one should ever be in that position, even if they’re a trust fund baby that fanned the flames that caused it and even said that sort of conflict is good. It may have taken a few instances of this sort of thing happening for it to personally affect Tony Khan and his lawyers so they don’t have to pay Punk out, but hopefully Tony is a new man — a true man — and will stamp out injustices in his locker room.

I can’t believe I ever supported a ruffian like CM Punk. Poor Jack Perry. My enjoyment of wrestling as a fan is one thing, but I’d much rather get a shitty product than hear that incompetence was met with consequences.

You're deplorable, Noid :lol:

[Maluco]

I think it’s very convenient that there were called off meetings in the run up to this, Elite member toying and provoking as their maturity levels would dictate.

And then for the final straw to be a talent making a jibe on air, the very thing that caused him to explode the first time.

They are assholes of the highest order and will destroy AEW eventually, but The Elite boys have played him like a fiddle.

In time, I think he will be glad to be out of the mess and away from such a toxic and unruly lockerroom, but he himself clearly needs therapy and the opportunity to find some peace in his own life.

[Mr. Nerfect]

I think a kid who has always been rich like Tony probably realizes he doesn’t have any real friends. It’s all transactional and he’ll accept the fake kudos he gets from The Elite camp (from them through Jericho, Sammy, Britt, The Hardys, Jungle Boy, etc.). No one is going to put a somber mood on TK’s parties.

[Destor]

Im sure the wwf will gladly take him back

[Destor]

...right?

[Mr. Nerfect]

We’ll see. I think it depends on how eager Punk is to go back there. There are rumors AJ Lee is going back. Survivor Series is in Chicago.

If he’d rather sit at home on millions, play with his dog, work for whoever he wants to work for, whatever…I think that ball’s in his court.

[Destor]

We'll certainly see

[GD]

Rewarding toxic behavior will always yield favorable results :roll:

[Destor]

As an employer if everytime you schedule a guy to work a fight breaks out you fire him. It not rocket science.

[GD]

As an employer if everytime you schedule a guy to work a fight breaks out you fire him. It not rocket science.

Which means WWE should avoid him at all cost, yeah? As it is, a ton of wrestlers do not wish to have him back (according to SRS).

[Stu Hart]

Man, i loved his return and hisnfeud with MFJ was gold.
I blame tony for the situation of giving office power to active talent.

The elite didnt like punk from.the start, and Punk seems to have let his MMa career go to his head where he wants to fihht at the drop of a hat. Even if the Elite worked him into a shoot, he acted on it. H

e threw pumches and lunged at the owner- you jusy dont do thid kind of thing irrespective of your stat power.

[Destor]

Which means WWE should avoid him at all cost, yeah? As it is, a ton of wrestlers do not wish to have him back (according to SRS). Well at least there he wouldnt be getting in fights every week. Their roster isnt made of guys 150lbs so he def wouldnt be starting so much shit. But there's no money in booking punk. He's demonstrated multiple times he can only bump ratings for 1 night and there's no way he'd be used as a special attraction (which is how AEW *shouldve* been using him but thats all pretty moot now.)

[GD]

Well at least there he wouldnt be getting in fights every week. Their roster isnt made of guys 150lbs so he def wouldnt be starting so much shit. But there's no money in booking punk. He's demonstrated multiple times he can only bump ratings for 1 night and there's no way he'd be used as a special attraction (which is how AEW *shouldve* been using him but thats all pretty moot now.)

Now let's laugh at TK for being socially awkward. How he deserves to be physically violated by his former employee because he's made bad decisions :lol:

[Destor]

He definitely doesnt deserve violence but he is most definitely an idiot if he thought prowrestling didnt require a spine. You cant keep a locker room of cockstrong guys in check on hugs alone.

[Destor]

But he most definitely does not deserve to be hurt for being in over his head

[Sepholio]

He deserves it!

He deserves it!

[Destor]

Amd he most definitely is in over his head

[Sepholio]

Destor postblocking me but it works either way

[GD]

I just hope he feels safe.

[Destor]

Haha you broke my triple post so its eye for an eye

[Destor]

Dammit dave

[Destor]

Gonna make me use the quote feature

[GD]

He definitely doesnt deserve violence but he is most definitely an idiot if he thought prowrestling didnt require a spine. You cant keep a locker room of cockstrong guys in check on hugs alone.

Nobody in their right mind is going to defend TK's decisions. His incompetence is on full display for the entire world to see.

[slik]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jey Uso attacking me unprovoked on my own show- fire this man! <a href="https://t.co/e9qvxUfr08">pic.twitter.com/e9qvxUfr08</a></p>&mdash; Grayson Waller (@GraysonWWE) <a href="https://twitter.com/GraysonWWE/status/1698168243821666388?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Ben Rodrigues]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jey Uso attacking me unprovoked on my own show- fire this man! <a href="https://t.co/e9qvxUfr08">pic.twitter.com/e9qvxUfr08</a></p>&mdash; Grayson Waller (@GraysonWWE) <a href="https://twitter.com/GraysonWWE/status/1698168243821666388?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

:lol:

[xrodmuc316]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jey Uso attacking me unprovoked on my own show- fire this man! <a href="https://t.co/e9qvxUfr08">pic.twitter.com/e9qvxUfr08</a></p>&mdash; Grayson Waller (@GraysonWWE) <a href="https://twitter.com/GraysonWWE/status/1698168243821666388?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Fucking brilliant :lol:

[Mr. JL]

I think TK owes The Elite a big apology.

I love how The Elite literally stayed the fuck out and away from CM Punk while allowing Punk to just go find some other persons/reasons to go full OceanGate submarine implosion on.

It is bittersweet though because I do enjoy CM Punk's in-ring work and psychology so the whole thing not working out sucks for the fans.

I'm no head doctor and maybe AEW just was not the right place for Punk but it is kind of worrisome that Punk cannot seem to hold it together and keep things in perspective AND instead of being able to keep perspective of 80K fans salivating for his match, he just looses his shit and flies off the handle.

[xrodmuc316]

I get it man, I dont think I could make it a week working for this spaz manchild without wanting to quit.

mNp2lRQPJrc

[Frank Drebin]

I think TK owes The Elite a big apology.

I love how The Elite literally stayed the fuck out and away from CM Punk while allowing Punk to just go find some other persons/reasons to go full OceanGate submarine implosion on.

It is bittersweet though because I do enjoy CM Punk's in-ring work and psychology so the whole thing not working out sucks for the fans.

I'm no head doctor and maybe AEW just was not the right place for Punk but it is kind of worrisome that Punk cannot seem to hold it together and keep things in perspective AND instead of being able to keep perspective of 80K fans salivating for his match, he just looses his shit and flies off the handle.

Lol fuck off.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Lol, Tony Khan trying to babyface himself in Chicago by pretending he gives them pro-wrestling.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Just watched the whole video. Jeez, what’s up with that guy? I’m not trying to make fun of the neurologically atypical, but he’s holding his eyes shut. Beyond being awkward and a bit of a knob, he hasn’t been that obviously…is impaired the right word? Is he fucked on something?

[Mr. Nerfect]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jey Uso attacking me unprovoked on my own show- fire this man! <a href="https://t.co/e9qvxUfr08">pic.twitter.com/e9qvxUfr08</a></p>&mdash; Grayson Waller (@GraysonWWE) <a href="https://twitter.com/GraysonWWE/status/1698168243821666388?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Ok, I might become a Grayson Waller fan.

[Destor]

Just watched the whole video. Jeez, what’s up with that guy? I’m not trying to make fun of the neurologically atypical, but he’s holding his eyes shut. Beyond being awkward and a bit of a knob, he hasn’t been that obviously…is impaired the right word? Is he fucked on something?he definitely has something.

[Mr. JL]

Lol fuck off.

lol Fuck off yourself

[Splaya]

That video is the saddest thing I have seen in professional wrestling in the past 10 years easily.

Who in their right fucking mind thought that it would be a good idea for him to do that? On top of that, if he had simply come out and said "I terminated CM Punk because it was the right thing to do after he had been given so many chances and he had burned all of the important bridges"...EVERYONE WOULD HAVE AGREED.

But instead he made it all about himself and his safety. Him adding in the wrestlers and the production crew was such bullshit. It was all about him not feeling safe. He's a huge pussy.

And I guarantee you that independent council of people that determined this have common names like Kenny, Matt, and Nick.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Something’s being exasperated. I can honestly see the guy having a nervous breakdown. He looks like he is struggling to function.

[Mr. Nerfect]

That video is the saddest thing I have seen in professional wrestling in the past 10 years easily.

Who in their right fucking mind thought that it would be a good idea for him to do that? On top of that, if he had simply come out and said "I terminated CM Punk because it was the right thing to do after he had been given so many chances and he had burned all of the important bridges"...EVERYONE WOULD HAVE AGREED.

But instead he made it all about himself and his safety. Him adding in the wrestlers and the production crew was such bullshit. It was all about him not feeling safe. He's a huge pussy.

And I guarantee you that independent council of people that determined this have common names like Kenny, Matt, and Nick.

He thinks he’s getting ahead of something like anyone gives a fuck how threatened the bullies backstage feel. No one wants to have their content fucked with. Especially because it’s pretty indisputable that this has to be, AT LEAST IN PART, the fault of the environment they’ve fucking cultured. There’s no sympathy for these fuckwads. Nor is there any “justice” perceived out of this decision.

Why isn’t Jungle Boy fired? This isn’t his first brush with bullshit. Sammy Guevara? Swerve Strickland and Ricky Starks got into a fight.

People smell the bullshit on this one. And even if they don’t, they don’t give a fuck if CM Punk beats up the entire locker room for being dunderheads. He’s the biggest and best act they’ve got right now.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Well, was. You get my point.

Watch him go to the WWE and there be no issues. Can’t wait for CM Punk vs. Dominik Mysterio. AJ Lee’s birthday’s in March just in time for Dom to sing for WrestleMania.

[xrodmuc316]

Sammy got into a fight with Andrade and Eddie Kingston. Sammy said he wanted to rape Sasha Banks in one podcast, and in a different podcast wanted to rape I think it was Miley Cyrus. He also went to Impact and refused to do anything and got told to leave. He did invite Tiny Khan to his wedding though, so he is probably ok forever as one of Tiny's loyal toys.

[Mr. JL]

I actually thought it was really great he did that. Yeah, it was awkward as fuck but it was real.

There is no way he would terminate CM Punk unless there was undisputed legit evidence and reason to do it.

The fact that he had the guts to go out there and face the Chicago crowd to explain it because he actually cares, shows me something.

[slik]

I'm going to have to re-think watching AEW post-Punk


Big fan of MJF, Ricky Starks, The Acclaimed and others...but this is a major L

[slik]

Omega, Hangman, The Bucks, Moxley, Jericho are so boring and they will likely eat up Collision now too

[xrodmuc316]

Ricky Starks caught the break of all breaks. He got to avoid having to keep working with Punk! As a bonus he traded up to a PPV match with Bryan Danielson, that is a win all around!

[XL]

How soon do we get the Mr. Khan character?

[Ben Rodrigues]

So... remember when Dana White and Tito Ortiz hated each other? They were even going to have a boxing match after he re-signed him and that was a contract stipulation

Also. Remember recently when Colby Convington threatened to slap Dana if he tried to put the belt on him? Dana was asked about that at a press conference and Dana's response "we’ll see about that. Good luck with that. He’s a big-mouth fucking idiot".

That's how it's done. Given Tony is a fan of Dana surprised he didn't square up when Punk threatened his life and the lives of all his employees.

[Destor]

Hey on the brightside Punk finally successfully intimidated someone. This a big milestone for him

[Sting Fan]

I wonder if we get a Goldberg debut at All out now. I still cant for the life of me think who he could work with in AEW though.

[Corporate CockSnogger]

CM Punk is 100% a little bitch who can’t handle anyone thinking he’s not the greatest of all time.

But AEW definitely needs to fix their management problem. I oversee 300+ staff (so about the size of AEW men’s roster LOL) and in any workplace there will be disagreements and people hating each other, but you have means and processes to follow to ensure things don’t escalate. I get that it’s going to be much worse in a steroid fuelled, testosterone high environment, but that’s why you spend the money he has to bring in people capable of dealing with it.

[GD]

I cannot support CM Punk in good faith despite being a fan in the past. While AEW is undoubtedly problematic, he only exacerbated the issue by his conduct over the past year. You cannot pretend to be the locker room leader when not everyone wants to follow you. It was the same case in WWE. I hope he works on his well-being and not work himself into a shoot in the future, brother.

[Frank Drebin]

I actually thought it was really great he did that. Yeah, it was awkward as fuck but it was real.

There is no way he would terminate CM Punk unless there was undisputed legit evidence and reason to do it.

The fact that he had the guts to go out there and face the Chicago crowd to explain it because he actually cares, shows me something.

He's using magic words that his dad's lawyers told him are the grounds to fire CM Punk in case he sues them. That isn't guts. That's being a fucking fanny while pandering to dizzy prats like you who don't know any better because Tony needs to be constantly reassured that everyone likes him.

Omega, Hangman, The Bucks, Moxley, Jericho are so boring and they will likely eat up Collision now too

That's if you're lucky. This might be Michael Nakazawa's best chance to get back out there with his baby oil gimmick.

So... remember when Dana White and Tito Ortiz hated each other? They were even going to have a boxing match after he re-signed him and that was a contract stipulation

Also. Remember recently when Colby Convington threatened to slap Dana if he tried to put the belt on him? Dana was asked about that at a press conference and Dana's response "we’ll see about that. Good luck with that. He’s a big-mouth fucking idiot".

That's how it's done. Given Tony is a fan of Dana surprised he didn't square up when Punk threatened his life and the lives of all his employees.

Trying to imagine Vince or Dana saying they feared for their safety so they fired someone.

Hey on the brightside Punk finally successfully intimidated someone. This a big milestone for him

True.

I wonder if we get a Goldberg debut at All out now. I still cant for the life of me think who he could work with in AEW though.

Edge. Feel like there's a 75% chance Tony threw more money at him than he could say no to just so he could have him debut and get a reaction for one night.

CM Punk is 100% a little bitch who can’t handle anyone thinking he’s not the greatest of all time.

But AEW definitely needs to fix their management problem. I oversee 300+ staff (so about the size of AEW men’s roster LOL) and in any workplace there will be disagreements and people hating each other, but you have means and processes to follow to ensure things don’t escalate. I get that it’s going to be much worse in a steroid fuelled, testosterone high environment, but that’s why you spend the money he has to bring in people capable of dealing with it.

This.

The other reason Tony keeps saying those magic words of "not feeling safe" are because fights (workplace violence) have happened at AEW and no one has gotten fired. There has been precedent set but apparently up until now, no one has ever felt unsafe. Now that this threshold has been crossed, there are grounds for termination. That's how he's going to deal with things going forward. He'll threaten to scream "I DONT FEEL SAFE!"

[GD]

Trying to imagine Vince or Dana saying they feared for their safety so they fired someone.


Self awareness > Bravado

Vince and Dana are genuinely horrible human beings and not shining examples of how one should conduct themselves or their business. People conveniently forget the amount of free range Vince afforded stars like Hogan, Michaels and Austin.

Despite TK's series of poor decisions, they pale in comparison to Vince's. Scheming Bret Hart out of the title in '97, aiding Snuka to cover up a crime (allegedly), leaving wrestlers behind in Saudi Arabia, hush money payments for sexual favors amongst many other.

[Bad News Gertner]

Vince is a man. Tony is a gimp.

[Ben Rodrigues]

Woah woah woah. Vince sure. But Dana is the man. Best promoter in the world.

[GD]

Vince is a man. Tony is a gimp.

Explain your pov, Gertie :lol:

[Bad News Gertner]

You know the scene in Step Brothers where Brennan and Dale get in a fight and Brennan screams "rape" and says he seriously thought Dale was gonna rape him because he had that look in his eyes.

Tony Khan is Brennan.

[Evil Vito]

More than anything I just hope the backstage drama can go the fuck away now.

At the same time, damn I hope the Wembley footage eventually leaks.

Would be kinda hilarious if it’s like 20x worse than any of the reports made it sound making TK’s comments actually not seem overdramatized.

[Evil Vito]

I mean I’d sure hope the footage is worse for Khan to willingly go out in front of the audience live and face the firing squad that was Chicago and say what he said.

[GD]

I suppose we'll get to see the footage one way or another if Punk decides to sue.

[GD]

I mean I’d sure hope the footage is worse for Khan to willingly go out in front of the audience live and face the firing squad that was Chicago and say what he said.

That takes cojones of steel. To put yourself out there in front of fans despite the expected reaction.

[Ol Dirty Dastard]

I love Punk. I really do. But lunging at your boss (and by the sounds of it, physically threatening him in an ensuing tirade) is not the best way to keep your job.

By the way Dave "Totally Unbiased I Have No Horses In This Race" Meltzer tells it, it sounds like Punk wanted out and was trying to find ways to get fired. If there's a hint of truth to that, trying to fight Tony was one way to go about it.


Legend.

[Evil Vito]

AEW handed Punk everything on a silver platter in the last run. Basically his own show where from all indications he had the authority to ban people from and mold to his own creative vision. And he couldn’t make it 3 months without throwing it away.

Whether or not you think Jack Perry deliberately goaded him on by making a comment during a pre-show match, Punk could’ve just shut the fuck up and ignored what was, at worst, petty bullshit and continued coasting his way to a very well-paid retirement run.

You don’t have to like AEW or Tony Khan but anyone taking the sympathy route for Punk to try to justify the hatred more is hilarious. Punk deserves no sympathy here. This was complete and total self-immolation.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Hey on the brightside Punk finally successfully intimidated someone. This a big milestone for him

Allegedly. I wouldn’t be surprised if this was a strategy to try and keep Punk from getting paid out/PR bullshit. The guy grew up a soccer fan. He’s taking the dive and trying to get a penalty.

[Ol Dirty Dastard]

Punk reminds me a lot of Don Draper without the alcohol. If you've seen Mad Men and watched Don's triumphs and downfalls I feel like you'd get where I'm coming from. He also sort of looks like Jon Hamm.

[Mr. Nerfect]

I see the Jon Hamm thing, but I’m not familiar with the character’s specifics.

[Ben Rodrigues]

When do we find out who was on the disciplinary committee? Got to have the head of talent relations Christopher Daniels no? Maybe veteran Chris Jericho? Michael Nakazawa? Best referee in the world Aubrey Edwards? Brandon Cutler?

[Mr. Nerfect]

I think Punk is just too wrestling for them. He wants to make it better and sees it as a craft, they want to do whatever they do it and it be called good enough.

[GD]

AEW handed Punk everything on a silver platter in the last run. Basically his own show where from all indications he had the authority to ban people from and mold to his own creative vision. And he couldn’t make it 3 months without throwing it away.

Whether or not you think Jack Perry deliberately goaded him on by making a comment during a pre-show match, Punk could’ve just shut the fuck up and ignored what was, at worst, petty bullshit and continued coasting his way to a very well-paid retirement run.

You don’t have to like AEW or Tony Khan but anyone taking the sympathy route for Punk to try to justify the hatred more is hilarious. Punk deserves no sympathy here. This was complete and total self-immolation.

Punk was a troubled child who never grew out of his rebellious phase. In part due to the validation he received for his unprofessional and unhinged behavior over the years. I remember watching his "Best in the World" documentary and cringing so often. He's only grown bitter and insecure with age. It's just sad at this point.

[Mr. Nerfect]

When do we find out who was on the disciplinary committee? Got to have the head of talent relations Christopher Daniels no? Maybe veteran Chris Jericho? Michael Nakazawa? Best referee in the world Aubrey Edwards? Brandon Cutler?

Last time they launched an investigation they didn’t even interview the civilian witness in the room. Saying there’s an investigation is just a way to hide responsibility for what they want to do.

[Ol Dirty Dastard]

Plus, Don and Punk come from similarly broken homes. Hopefully, Punk gets another chance to create magic.

[Mr. Nerfect]

I’m pretty sure he’ll be able to get a job basically anywhere he wants. If he doesn’t end up back in WWE, I think it’ll be because he’s either done with wrestling or wants to pick his spots elsewhere.

[Mr. Nerfect]

Can’t wait for the CM Punk book.

[GD]

I think it's time for Punk to give MMA another shot. Maybe work his way up to the UFC this time around.