The wrestling world was abuzz with excitement when CM Punk made his much-anticipated arrival in AEW. Fans were eager to witness the Second City Saint’s next chapter unfold in the ring. However, what followed was a rollercoaster ride of triumphs and setbacks that ultimately led to Punk’s unexpected departure from the company.
In 2021, Punk shook the wrestling landscape by signing with AEW, quickly ascending to prominence within the promotion. His crowning achievement came at Double or Nothing 2022, where he captured the AEW World Championship.
Yet, his reign was marred by injuries and controversy, culminating in a suspension following a contentious incident at AEW All Out 2022. Despite a triumphant return in June 2023, Punk’s comeback was short-lived. An altercation involving Jack Perry, better known as Jungle Boy, resulted in Punk’s contract termination.
However, the wrestling world was stunned when Punk resurfaced in WWE at Survivor Series 2023, signaling a surprising turn in his career trajectory. Meanwhile, Jack Perry found himself at the center of speculation and scrutiny.
Departing from AEW, Perry ventured to NJPW, where he adopted the moniker ‘The Scapegoat’ and competed in the prestigious New Japan Cup. His debut in NJPW, marked by tearing up an AEW contract, sparked rumors of discord between Perry and his former employer.
During an episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer shed light on Perry’s status within AEW. While Perry has not been officially terminated, he remains conspicuously absent from programming. Meltzer indicated that AEW President Tony Khan harbors resentment towards Perry, attributing Punk’s departure to the fallout from Perry’s actions.
Meltzer remarked, “He has not been fired… Tony’s really mad at him because he cost him CM Punk. He’s getting the blame.” The severity of Perry’s apparent punishment has raised eyebrows within the wrestling community, with many questioning the proportionality of his exile from AEW.
In response to mounting speculation, Perry hinted at requesting his release from AEW, further clouding his future in professional wrestling. As he continues to make waves in NJPW, fans eagerly await the next chapter in the enigmatic wrestler’s journey, uncertain of what twists and turns lie ahead.
