CM Punk’s Promo on AEW Return, World Title, & “Counterfeit Bucks” Dig at Young Bucks, Young Bucks Respond

Jun 18, 2023

Saturday’s AEW Collision debut show in Chicago, Illinois featured an opening promo segment by CM Punk.

Punk came out with his wrestling boots around his neck and held a big red bag. During his heated promo, Punk stated that he was tired of being nice and talked about being away from wrestling for the past ten months due to a triceps injury. Punk also stated that as long as he is here, this would be a professional wrestling business and not a popularity contest. Punk also stated that loves his fans due to the love they have shown towards him and for being passionate wrestling fans.

Punk also stated that people love him due to him being unapologetically about himself and knows that some people hate him over it.

Punk also stated that people can call him whatever they want but Warner Bros Discovery CEO David Zaslov calls him the “One Bill Phil” because he’s one of the true stars in a business full of “counterfeit bucks” in an implied insult to the Young Bucks.

Later into his promo, Punk grabbed his red bag and stated that the last time he was in the ring, he held what was in the bag raised over his head, hinting that it was the original AEW World Championship belt that is still in his possession. Punk stated that the thing in the bag belongs to him until someone can beat him for it.

Punk then grabbed his boots from around his neck and stated that there are people who prayed that he would hang up his boots. Punk stated that until someone worthy can fill his boots, they still belong to his feet. Punk then dropped the mic and left with his bag and boots to close out his promo.