In a shocking turn of events, CM Punk has been fired by AEW (All Elite Wrestling) with cause following a backstage incident that took place at the All In pay-per-view event. This decision marks the end of Punk’s tenure with the professional wrestling promotion.
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CM Punk, whose real name is Phil Brooks, found himself in a physical altercation with fellow AEW star Jack Perry backstage just before his scheduled match against Samoa Joe at the All In event held at London’s Wembley Stadium. Multiple reports confirm the incident, which led to swift action from AEW.
In an official statement, AEW stated, “All Elite Wrestling (AEW) terminated the wrestler and employment agreement between Philip Brooks (CM Punk) and AEW with cause, effective immediately. The termination follows a weeklong internal investigation of an incident occurring backstage 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.”
Tony Khan, the CEO of AEW, expressed his gratitude for Punk’s contributions but emphasized that the decision to terminate the contract was his alone, made in the best interest of the organization and its dedicated staff.
Punk and Perry’s altercation reportedly stemmed from a disagreement regarding the use of real glass during a segment at an “AEW Collision” show earlier in the summer. Despite AEW’s approval of the spot, Punk rejected Perry’s suggestion to use real glass. Perry, visibly displeased, referenced the incident during his match against Hook at All In.
The situation escalated backstage, with Punk and Perry engaging in a confrontational exchange. Punk allegedly initiated physical contact, including a sucker punch and an attempted chokehold. Following their separation, Punk directed his frustration at Tony Khan, exclaiming, “I quit,” and causing some equipment to be knocked over.
Security camera footage from Wembley Stadium captured the incident, and it is reported to be available.
AEW is set to hold the All Out pay-per-view event at the United Center in Chicago, Punk’s hometown, on the upcoming Sunday.
This recent incident adds to the challenges Punk has faced since returning to professional wrestling in August 2021 after a seven-year hiatus. Despite being a significant draw for AEW and delivering memorable matches, Punk suffered injuries following both of his AEW world championship victories. Additionally, tension with The Elite, a prominent AEW faction, continued to persist.
While Punk’s wrestling career may have come to an abrupt end, it is clear that the fallout from this incident will have a lasting impact on both Punk and AEW.
