WWE legend returns as CM Punk retains his "real" AEW World Championship on Collision

Despite a rather intense bout, CM Punk was able to retain his X-marked AEW Championship belt this week on Collision, with a little help from a returning WWE legend.

The bout between Punk and Ricky Starks surpassed the fans' expectations. Both the competitors seemed to be in control at different points in the match. While Starks seemed to portray a newly gained heel persona, the Second City Saint also had flashes of losing control of his temper. Ricky Steamboat's presence was decidedly helpful in keeping Punk in control.

Near the end of the intense bout, The Absolute accidentally knocked the referee after an Irish Whip. Soon afterward, he was able to hold down Punk in a pin with his own legs up on the rope. The dirty pin was immediately stopped by Ricky Steamboat, giving the Second City Saint a chance to roll up Starks in a pin.

Punk's quick thinking led to Starks being rendered.

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The 'Real World Championship' will remain with CM Punk for the time being. It remains to be seen what is next for Chicago Native in the Jacksonville-based promotion.

Furthermore, fans will also have to stay tuned to see what Ricky Steamboat has to say next.

About the author

Shubhajit is a pro wrestling journalist at Sportskeeda, reporting on WWE news. He has a Master's degree in English and has been working in his current role for over 2 years.

A fan of pro wrestling since childhood, Shubhajit decided to start creating content on the sport out of passion. Before covering a piece of news or rumor, he conducts thorough research, ensuring information in his work is reliable and completely accurate.

Although Shubhajit admires numerous pro wrestlers, his current favorite is WWE superstar Drew McIntyre. He is fond of The Scottish Warrior’s character work and innovative quips.

If there is one storyline he can work on in WWE, Shubhajit would book Roman Reigns’ future with The Bloodline following WrestleMania XL, where he lost to Cody Rhodes. He would have Reigns’ stablemates excommunicate him, laying the foundation for a gimmick change for the former. After Reigns’ exit from the faction, Shubhajit would portray him as an anti-hero trying hard to claw his way back up to the top.

Apart from reporting on pro wrestling, Shubhajit enjoys competitive gaming and reading.

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Edited by Neda Ali