Report: CM Punk Was Open To WWE Return In Late 2022

Relations between All Elite Wrestling and CM Punk looked to be at breaking point in December 2022, with reports noting at the time that both sides were in talks over a contract buyout following the completion of an investigation into Brawl Out. 

Punk remained in contact with Tony Khan while he was out of action with a torn triceps during this period but Punk was still considering his options, with those close to CM Punk claiming to Fightful Select that Punk was open to leaving AEW. He even encouraged the idea so he could go back to WWE. Fightful noted, however, they have not heard any traction on potential interest from WWE. If AEW were seriously considering letting Punk go in December 2022 is also unknown. 

Punk wanted to appear in the 2023 Royal Rumble and one of the rumoured pitches (albeit not confirmed with Punk or his camp) was for Punk to return at the January show and be eliminated from the Rumble by Kevin Owens. This would have led to a WrestleMania match between the two former ROH World Champions. 

The door is now open for CM Punk and WWE to work together again if they both wish following Punk's firing by AEW on Saturday, September 2. According to rumours, WWE management are open to bringing in Punk but The Second City Saint still has major heat with top WWE names.