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CM Punk Released From AEW, Tony Khan Issues Statement

By Sondra Ruth • Published 2nd September 2023
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CM Punk is no longer part of All Elite Wrestling.

The events behind the scenes at AEW All In were as chaotic as the on-screen action, with CM Punk getting into an altercation with Jack Perry. The skirmish came after Perry made comments directed toward Punk during his Zero Hour match against HOOK, and while reports vary on who instigated the fight backstage, the altercation turned physical.

Perry was sent home from the arena while Punk went on to defeat Samoa Joe in the opening bout of the main show. Punk reportedly met with security after his bout and left Wembley Stadium of his own accord as he believed it would be better for everyone involved.

Punk also reportedly had a heated confrontation with AEW President Tony Khan, stemming from frustration over travel arrangements as well as his issues with Jack Perry.

In the aftermath of the incident, both Punk and Perry were suspended as an investigation into their confrontation was launched.

“It Was My Decision” – Tony Khan On Releasing CM Punk From AEW

Now, AEW have released an official statement regarding CM Punk, revealing that he has been released from the company. The AEW President took full responsibility for the decision. The press release reads as follows:

STATEMENT FROM ALL ELITE WRESTLING AND TONY KHAN

All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has terminated the wrestler and employment agreements between Phillip Brooks (CM Punk) and AEW with cause, effective immediately. The termination was confirmed today by Tony Khan, CEO, General Manager and Head of Creative of AEW.

The termination follows a weeklong internal investigation of an incident occurring back stage at AEW – All In London on Sunday, August 27. Following the investigation, the AEW Discipline Committee met and later convened with outside legal counsel before making a unanimous recommendation to Khan that CM Punk be terminated with cause.

Khan offered the following statement:

“Phil played an important role within AEW and I thank him for his contributions. The termination of his AEW contracts with cause is ultimately my decision, and mine alone. Of course, I wish I didn’t have to share this news, which may come as a disappointment to many of our fans. Nevertheless, I am making the decision in the best interests of the many amazing people who make AEW
possible every week – our talent, staff, venue operators and many others whose efforts are unsung but essential to bringing our fans great shows on television and at arenas and stadiums throughout the world.”