We haven't seen CM Punk since the April 20 edition of RAW when he teased a future clash with Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. At the time, the Second City Saint said he would be wrestling full-time, making his absence since then something of a mystery.
Punk isn't taking part in WWE's European tour and seemingly isn't factored into the company's SummerSlam plans. He doesn't appear to be injured, as videos of him looking jacked in the gym have gone viral on social media.
Now, as rumours swirl, the latest speculation points to Punk parting ways with WWE and TKO. In fact, the Best in the World may be seeking his release from the company, a shocking revelation given how much Punk has repeatedly said he's enjoyed his latest run with WWE.
While we wait for more reliable sources to chime in, a scooper account on X, @JCup2013, has shared some pretty wild claims about what's allegedly happening:
"I’ve spoken to roughly 5-8 people over the past several weeks, and all of them have heard a story about Punk politicking for something related to WrestleMania. I’ve heard whispers about what exactly he was politicking for, but I’ve been flat-out muzzled by multiple people. I think there’s a strong likelihood of it being revealed (sooner rather than later, too), so don’t get too upset."
"Punk’s alleged attempt at politicking quickly spread amongst the roster, and he allegedly gained massive heat from WWE/TKO execs. Well, what happened almost immediately after ‘Mania? Punk gets into it with a fan, sure, but I’m asking about the big picture here. What could’ve made Punk even angrier than not getting what he wanted? Some have told me he was allegedly asked to take – and declined – a significant pay cut."
"It’s been suggested to me that Punk is so angry that he allegedly may be threatening legal action against TKO to secure a release, though someone else threw a little bit of cold water on that specific point."
You'll recall there were reports after WrestleMania that TKO had pushed for a top Superstar in WWE to take a significant pay cut. That star may have been CM Punk, a baffling decision given what a huge draw he is (even with a semi-regular schedule).
As for those WrestleMania claims, it could be that Punk was hoping to retain the World Heavyweight Championship rather than lose it to Roman Reigns. Honestly, that would have been the better outcome based on how the OTC has since been booked and what that's done to Jacob Fatu's momentum.
If Punk parts ways with WWE, it will likely mark the end of his in-ring career. That would be a terrible shame, and another reason for fans to dislike what TKO is doing with the product.
Stay tuned for the latest on CM Punk's WWE future as we have it.