CM Punk returns to WWE Television

Overtime Heroics Editorial

2122 days ago

For the first time since January 26, 2014, CM Punk appeared on WWE television. He was brought out (and of course, to his signature theme “Cult of Personality”) in the last few seconds of the recently debuting program “WWE Backstage” on Fox Sports 1. He looked into the camera and said: “just when they have all the answers, I change the culture” and promised he would return next week. “WWE Backstage” airs every Tuesday Night at 11 pm EST on Fox Sports 1, so we will have to wait until then to see what role he will be playing on the show going forward.

What does this mean in the giant scheme of things for the WWE landscape? I don’t think anyone knows that answer at this time, not even WWE. CM Punk may provide analysis on this show from time to time, and that could be as far as it goes. It may lead to a return to the wrestling ring at a special event such as Wrestlemania or perhaps a Crown Jewel show. Possibly, a short program or angle that could provide a spark that WWE requires right now. I think the latter is less likely than the former two.

Why was he brought back now?

A number of possibilities come to mind.

Help viewership on WWE Backstage which did an abysmal 49,000 viewers the first week.
Boost the 18-49 demographics which has struggled in recent years with WWE viewership.
Keep AEW from scooping him up. You can bet he didn’t show up without a hefty price tag.
Perhaps it could lead to something bigger such as an in-ring return, commentary on one of the flagship shows, or a General Manager role.
CM Punk is one of the few “free agents” out there that can move the needle.

Also, it should be mentioned that CM Punk was hired as an employee of FOX, not WWE. However, it has been rumored WWE did provide approval on this. Whatever the reason, I am glad to see him back. It has been almost six full years since he abruptly walked away before that Monday Night Raw in Cleveland. Time can heal wounds. I am sure both he and WWE are ready to put whatever angst is between them into the past and move on.

I am anxious to see where this goes.

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