CM Punk Names WWE Legend Who Exceeded Expectations

CM Punk has paid tribute to an “influential” WWE star.

In the lead-up to WWE’s two-date stop in Japan, AJ Styles announced that it would likely be his last time wrestling in the country before he retires. During that same interview, Styles said he plans to retire in 2026 after one more match at WrestleMania.

On the second of WWE’s two nights in Japan, Punk brought Styles back to the ring after the main event so he could salute the crowd.

In a new video released by WWE, Punk is shown addressing the crowd and celebrating the beloved star.

“If this was his last match in Tokyo, we did it right. We had to celebrate AJ Styles.”

What he means to me is he’s a guy that started around the same time as I did in a different part of the country. Paid his dues, did things his way. He’s very influential and he’s a guy that you never thought would be in WWE, let alone make it in WWE. We kind of have that in common. He exceeded his expectations just like I did.”

Punk added that he doesn’t have a retirement plan of his own, noting that he’s going to wrestle as long as possible. However, he knows that the end is coming sooner rather than later.

“I don’t know how long I got. I’m gonna go until the wheels fall off, and I just know that that’s sooner than later. So it’s important, I think, for all of us, not just myself, to celebrate all the wrestlers as they retire.”

The veteran went on to dedicate his match to his former MMA coach.

“Last one in Tokyo, maybe ever, I don’t know. I don’t know what’s gonna happen, but I’m grateful for all the Japanese fans and I’m grateful for all the boys and girls I work with. This one is for Duke Roufus.”

CM Punk Deserves To Win World Championship

Next up for CM Punk is a date with Jey Uso at Saturday Night’s Main Event on November 1. With Seth Rollins injured ansd stripped of the World Heavyweight Championship, the winner of the match between Punk and Uso will be crowned the new champion.

On the latest episode of his podcast, Matt Hardy suggested that CM Punk deserves to win the title because of the work he’s put in since returning to the company in late 2023.

However, it’s been reported that the winner might prove to be a stepping stone for another major star who is bring primed to take over Monday Night Raw.

Make TJR Wrestling your choice for news by clicking here.

H/t to f4wonline