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CM Punk and Daniel Bryan's potential AEW signings have been a hot topic of conversation lately. It's no secret that Punk's dedicated fanbase has held on to the hope of his in-ring return since 2014.
While the former world champion's move to AEW will certainly make headlines, Vince Russo and Dr. Chris Featherstone recently discussed this subject from a business standpoint. Check out their conversation on the latest edition of 'Writing with Russo' below:
CM Punk has previously stated that he would require a lot of money and a good storyline to return to pro wrestling. Vince Russo believes that if Punk signs a multi-million dollar AEW deal for approximately a year, it will be a smart move on the latter's part.
However, the former WWE head writer questioned whether or not Tony Khan's promotion will benefit through this hypothetical scenario from an investment standpoint.
"I think that's very smart [multi-million dollar AEW deal for CM Punk]. I think that is very, very smart." Vince Russo continued, "Bro, it is so hard for people like you [Dr. Chris Featherstone] and I to understand. Because to people like you and I, everything is about business and dollars and cents and money. Money's not an issue here [in CM Punk's case]. Here's what you and I would say, 'We're going to give CM Punk five million dollars for a year.' Okay. What's our return going to be on that investment? How am I making that five million back? That's what you and I are saying."
Vince Russo's honest assessment of AEW potentially investing in CM Punk
During the latest 'Writing with Russo' episode, the veteran writer said that AEW shows are already selling out in terms of tickets, and CM Punk might not improve the company's current standing to a huge extent.
"I'll be honest with you, I don't think Punk brings that five million [back]. Bro, they [AEW] already sell out their shows. They can add more people to their house shows. I don't think he makes back that five million dollars," stated Russo.
While Vince Russo and Dr. Chris Featherstone acknowledged that CM Punk still has a cult following, this might not equate to a massive television ratings boom in the long run.
Since drawing fan interest is a collective effort from the creative team and the performer, Punk's presence alone did not lead to a significant increase in WWE viewership during the early 2010s.
Russo has also questioned whether or not CM Punk and Daniel Bryan's rumored AEW signings will be a "game-changer." You can read his comments regarding that story HERE.
Please H/T Sportskeeda Wrestling and embed the exclusive video if any quotes are used from this article.
