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00:00:00 – 01:50:08
The video features an in-depth conversation with CM Punk, focusing on his experiences and reflections on the professional wrestling industry. Key themes include his return to WWE at the 2023 Survivor Series, past injuries, and interactions with notable figures like Vince McMahon, Nick Khan, Triple H, and Tony Khan. He discusses the evolution of backstage culture, stressing a shift to a friendlier environment compared to ten years ago.
CM Punk reveals the challenges he faced both in WWE and AEW, including a controversial visit to WWE while contracted with AEW, and a backstage altercation with Jack Perry. He expresses mixed feelings about his relationships in the industry, particularly with Vince McMahon, Chris Benoit, and other wrestlers such as Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman.
The conversation shifts to the business side of wrestling, touching on the impact of guaranteed money, the differences between indie and national promotions, and the influence of major returns like The Rock's. Punk critiques how certain behaviors and decisions affect the industry, highlighting instances of unprofessionalism and false narratives that have frustrated him.
Despite the various controversies and challenges, CM Punk conveys a sense of satisfaction with his career, appreciating the positive moments and relationships he's had. He reflects on his future, contemplating roles beyond active wrestling, such as management or production. The discussion ends with Punk expressing gratitude for the support from fans and his positive outlook on the current state of WWE.
00:00:00
In this part of the video, the host welcomes CM Punk to the studio to kick off WrestleMania week. They reminisce about the last time they met in person in Chicago before CM Punk’s last UFC fight in 2018. CM Punk shares his experience dealing with a painful tricep injury during a Royal Rumble match, discussing how he managed to continue despite the pain. The conversation then shifts to his return to WWE at the Survivor Series in November 2023. He recounts how the talks began the week of Thanksgiving, highlighting key interactions with Nick Khan and Triple H. They discussed past issues, buried the hatchet, and swiftly negotiated his return.
00:10:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses various interactions and experiences around a WWE event. They recount a past encounter with an individual at WWE’s building resulting in being asked to leave, which involved Vince McMahon. The speaker also describes an incidental meeting with former wrestler Jason Jordan on a flight and reconnecting with WWE wrestlers, including Liv Morgan and Bailey. The visit to a WWE event while still contracted with AEW sparked controversy, with AEW considering it a ‘betrayal’. The speaker details the secretive nature of their appearance at Survivor Series, only informing close family and select WWE officials. They recount the emotional experience of returning to WWE television after nearly a decade, highlighting the overwhelming crowd reaction that made it challenging to hear their entrance music.
00:20:00
In this segment, the individual reflects on the excitement and infectious energy felt backstage following a notable performance. They describe the scene as celebratory, with people expressing their admiration and happiness. They emphasize the difference in backstage culture compared to ten years ago, noting it is now friendlier and less competitive. The person acknowledges their role in shaping the current environment, which they now appreciate upon returning.
They also recount a brief, positive encounter with Vince McMahon, expressing shock and disappointment over McMahon’s recent allegations. The individual underscores the importance of focusing on the victims and their recovery, suggesting that the industry might be better off without McMahon’s involvement due to his controversial behavior.
00:30:00
In this segment of the video, the speaker reflects on the difficulty of reconciling their friendship with Chris Benoit, who committed a murder-suicide. They mention having traveled with Benoit and never seeing any violent tendencies, which made the news shocking. The speaker draws parallels with Vince McMahon, discussing the surprise over accusations against him and noting McMahon’s tendency to form paternal relationships in the wrestling industry.
They then discuss plans for WrestleMania, revealing that the original plan might have involved them facing Seth for his belt, potentially as the main event of night one. The speaker emphasizes their respect for the business and their desire for more experience and to prove they belong in the main event scene.
Relationships with other wrestlers, particularly Roman and Paul Heyman, are briefly touched upon, indicating a professional respect even if personal friendships aren’t the focus. They also comment on the business impact of major returns like The Rock, stressing the importance of drawing more attention and encouraging others to step up.
Lastly, the speaker shares their views on the use of insider wrestling terms and profanity in promos, expressing a preference for impactful storytelling over gratuitous use of rules or language.
00:40:00
In this part of the video, the speaker describes an incident that occurred in August 2023 in London. Upon arrival, there was no one to pick him up, so he took the tube and fans spotted him. He criticizes the company’s irresponsibility for not arranging proper transportation. The speaker recounts a confrontation with Jack Perry, who wanted to use real glass for an on-screen angle, which the speaker opposed for safety reasons. This led to a heated backstage altercation where the speaker felt underappreciated and unsupported by the company’s management, particularly Tony Khan. The speaker ultimately decides to quit but still goes out to perform his match out of respect for his colleagues and fans. After the match, he is informed that Jack Perry was told to leave, but he chooses to stay and watch the remainder of the show.
00:50:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses an interaction with someone named Tony, reflecting on their complicated professional relationship. Key points include the speaker choosing to leave an event to make it easier for Tony, later encountering claims that Tony felt fearful for his life, which the speaker denies causing. The speaker feels there is an effort to ruin his reputation and questions the actions taken by others within the company. Specific incidents of unprofessional behavior during a promo by Adam Page and the subsequent issues that arose are mentioned. The speaker recounts feeling frustrated and perceiving a significant decline in workplace relations, culminating in contentious moments and a controversial public scrum. The speaker expresses regret over the handling of specific events but stands firm on maintaining professionalism and addressing false narratives.
01:00:00
In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the misinformation prevalent in pro wrestling, fueled by self-proclaimed reporters on social media. He addresses his own experience with false narratives and expresses frustration with the process, indicating he makes money despite these rumors. He refers to a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) requested by Tony, which he didn’t agree with. The speaker shares his discomfort and reluctance to elaborate on the incident, noting the lack of communication and support from his company during his recovery period, contrasting it with his previous professional experiences. Despite these challenges, he returned to the company due to friendships and a desire to contribute positively, even though he questioned the effectiveness of the company’s strategy. He reflects on memorable moments and collaborations, particularly with Sting, and concludes that the positive experiences outweighed the negatives, although he believes he was brought in with different intentions.
01:10:00
In this part of the video, the conversation revolves around the nature of the wrestling business, contrasting indie shows with national television, and the importance of good matches versus financial success. CM Punk shares an anecdote about giving advice to a wrestler, emphasizing the difference between indie and national platforms. He reflects on his time with wrestler MJF and discusses MJF’s potential to be a top star. Punk critiques niche internet audiences and the sustainability of certain wrestling companies. He also talks about the impact of guaranteed money on the wrestling industry, and how it affects motivation and creativity.
He reflects on personal memories and the importance of making connections in the industry. Punk ultimately expresses no regrets about his return to wrestling, highlighting the positive relationships and experiences he’s gained, despite the criticism and challenges. He mentions his reluctance to give unsolicited advice but values learning from long-time professionals.
01:20:00
In this part of the video, the speaker reflects on their decision to return to professional wrestling and expresses no regret. They discuss their close negotiations with WWE before joining AEW in 2020, detailing how they initially engaged with Fox to work as an analyst for their show “Backstage” rather than directly rejoining WWE. The conversation touches on interactions with key figures like Nick Khan, Triple H, and Vince McMahon and how certain dynamics and relationships influenced their career trajectory. The speaker acknowledges a tense atmosphere and some adversarial relationships within AEW but highlights a more positive and resolved current state within WWE, emphasizing a more collaborative environment. They also contemplate their potential future roles, possibly in management or as a producer, but emphasize their current satisfaction and readiness to remain active in the ring. The discussion concludes with the speaker expressing a broader perspective on life and interpersonal conflicts, underscoring the importance of moving past past grievances and appreciating the present.
01:30:00
In this segment of the video, the speaker reflects on his difficult childhood and how it shapes his approach to respect and grudges, emphasizing that he starts with respect but reacts strongly to disrespect. He discusses the challenges of his public persona and how his on-screen actions, such as defeating Jeff Hardy, lead to real-life misconceptions about his character. The speaker mentions a strained relationship with K Cabana, implying unresolved issues and legal tensions. He appreciates others standing up for friends but criticizes those who jeopardize business for personal reasons.
Regarding his wife, there’s an openness to her possibly returning to TV, though it’s uncertain. He reflects on his career, including doing commentary and potentially not headlining WrestleMania, without feeling regret. He embraces his current appearance and life phase, seeing criticisms as validations of his experiences and authenticity.
The speaker also talks about overcoming a challenging injury and finding motivation through support from others. He mentions being involved in major upcoming events and values his role in the business, highlighting changes in the industry that allow for extended careers.
01:40:00
In this segment, the speaker reflects on their feelings about stepping away from competition, expressing that they will miss the environment rather than the actual competing. The speaker discusses a happier phase in life, contrasting it with past anxieties about their role and responsibilities. They talk about being more relaxed and enjoying the present. The topic shifts to their tenure at AEW and the brutal honesty they shared about it, noting that despite criticisms, they have no regrets. Sports fandom and its tribalism is discussed, and the conversation transitions to personal anecdotes, including their 10-year wedding anniversary and their wife’s support. They also reflect on their UFC career with no regrets despite the challenges faced. Finally, the speaker appreciates the current positive environment in WWE, dismissing the need for tribalism among fans, and reiterates their joy in contributing to the success of the company.
01:50:00
In this part of the video, the host encourages viewers to subscribe to the channel, emphasizing their gratitude and appreciation for the support.