The skilled wrestling world was sent right into a frenzy when CM Punk made his shocking return to WWE in November 2023, nearly a decade after his abrupt departure from the corporate. Nonetheless, the 45-year-old’s homecoming was short-lived, as he suffered a triceps injury in his return match on the 2024 Royal Rumble, ruling him out of motion for several months. But amidst the thrill and concern surrounding Punk’s injury, a former WWE star has come forward with some revealing insights into the Best within the World’s tumultuous past with The Shield.
Ryback, a distinguished figure in WWE in the course of the early 2010s, recently opened up on his Ryback TV show about CM Punk’s real-life issues with The Shield, comprising Jon Moxley (formerly Dean Ambrose), Roman Reigns, and Seth Rollins. In line with Ryback, Punk’s downfall with The Shield began when he badmouthed Ryback behind the scenes, which the trio saw through and immediately disliked Punk for it.
For individuals who may not recall, The Shield made their predominant roster debut at Survivor Series in November 2012, attacking Ryback before eventually aligning with Punk. Nonetheless, their partnership was short-lived, and Punk went on to feud with The Shield in late 2013 and early 2014, even defeating all three members in a handicap match at TLC 2013.
Ryback’s claims shed latest light on the events that led to the deterioration of Punk’s relationships with The Shield. It raises questions on trust and loyalty within the cutthroat world of skilled wrestling, where alliances will be fleeting and tensions can run high.
Moreover, Ryback’s comments also spark concerns about Punk’s future in WWE. Given his history of walking out on the corporate in 2014, could backstage problems arise once more, prompting Punk to depart WWE for a second time? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain – CM Punk’s return has ignited a flurry of emotions and speculation amongst fans, and Ryback’s revelations have added one other layer of complexity to an already intriguing narrative.
What do you make of Ryback’s comments? Do you’re thinking that CM Punk’s injuries are an indication of his decline, or is he still able to delivering within the ring? Share your thoughts within the comments below!