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According to some recent reports, CM Punk is in talks with AEW for a potential in-ring return. This news has taken the wrestling universe by storm. Fans are excited to finally witness the grand return they have all been waiting for.
If these reports turn out to be accurate, then it would be a massive victory for Tony Khan's promotion. It would probably be the biggest in-ring return of this century. Unfortunately, CM Punk signing with AEW will also close the doors for many dream matches forever.
There are many epic bouts involving current WWE stars that might not happen if Punk goes to AEW. It would be unlucky for the fans if they don't get to see these matches ever.
In this article, let's look at 4 WWE dream matches involving CM Punk which will not happen if Punk signs with AEW.
#4. Kevin Owens vs. CM Punk
During his WWE run, CM Punk became a fan-favorite because of his anti-hero character. Fans wanted to root for the 'Voice of the Voiceless' as they could relate to his story very well. They loved to see Punk going against the system to get what he deserves.
In the last 2-3 years, Kevin Owens has risen as the new anti-hero of the WWE. Although he might not be at Punk's level, Owens has still managed to make fans believe in his 'Fight Forever' mantra.
He does not hesitate in going up against anybody. Two years ago, Kevin Owens ended Shane McMahon's despotic rule and freed the fans from his reign of terror. By overcoming one of the most despised heels at the time, Owens solidified his position as a top-level babyface.
So, what would have been the result if these two rebels ever went up against each other?
Kevin Owens vs. CM Punk is a feud fans would have loved to see. Both superstars are known for their mic work. Hence, their confrontations could have resulted in some fiery promo battles.
Taking their in-ring credentials into account, their matches would have certainly been bangers. If properly booked, this match could have easily been the main event of any WWE pay-per-view. Moreover, people would have got the chance to witness the GTS vs. Stunner contest, which they never got to see before.
#3 AJ Styles vs. CM Punk
AJ Styles and CM Punk are no strangers to each other. The two superstars have some real-life animosity which they would love to settle inside the squared circle. Their off-screen feud went to a whole new level in June 2020, when Punk indirectly called out Styles for his silence over the George Floyd protests.
Styles did not take Punk's words lightly. He said he has no respect for the former six-time World Champion. AJ also later revealed that he does not have any interest in facing Punk if he ever comes to WWE.
However, things might have been different if Punk ever came back to the WWE. We have seen many real-life enemies that put their differences aside to create magic in the ring. Shawn Michaels and Bret Hart are prime examples of two superstars who did not let their personal differences come in the line of business.
It would have been a treat for the fans to see a dream battle between CM Punk and AJ Styles. Both superstars are considered the cornerstones of modern-day wrestling. They both hold a special place in the hearts of the wrestling universe. People would have had a tough time figuring out who they were going to support.
Their intense relationship would have added a new flavor to their rivalry, which is rarely seen in modern-day rivalries.
#2.CM Punk vs. Seth Rollins
While AJ Styles might not be interested in the idea, there's another individual who would love to have a match with CM Punk. Seth Rollins, someone who knows Punk very well, has been critical of the Best In the World's hatred towards WWE.
With CM Punk finally returning to the ring once again, it would be an injustice if we don't get to see this match now. It could be a solid battle between two talented individuals, who are considered two of the best overall competitors in wrestling history.
In the fall of 2019, Rollins started a mini-feud with CM Punk. He issued several challenges to Punk for a potential one-on-one match. Seth even called him a coward for not coming back to the WWE. Things became even more intense when Punk appeared on WWE Backstage and asked Rollins to keep his mouth shut.
The story is pretty much there already, which is enough to make Punk vs. Rollins a high-profile encounter.
Again, their personal tensions would have certainly bettered the quality of their storyline. But with Punk seemingly heading to AEW, Rollins would probably never have this dream collision with The Best in the World.
#1. Roman Reigns vs. CM Punk
CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns could have probably been the biggest match of the decade if the former ever showed up in the WWE. A returning CM Punk going against an indestructible Tribal Chief could have certainly been a rating booster for the WWE.
Roman Reigns is currently in the best phase of his WWE career and doesn't seem to be getting dethroned anytime soon. From top names like Drew McIntyre to legendary superstars like Edge, no one has been able to take down the Tribal Chief.
However, things might not have been the same if CM Punk decided to go after Roman Reigns.
In a recent interview, CM Punk praised Roman Reigns' character work under his Head of The Table persona. He called it the best storyline WWE has produced in a very long time.
Roman Reigns also seems to be interested in a match with Punk. In September 2020, Reigns claimed that he would keep his differences with CM Punk in order to produce quality content for the WWE Universe. It gives an indication that we will have the chance to see this bout if Punk had decided to come back to WWE.
It is also worth knowing that the last time these two superstars faced each other, Roman Reigns came out victorious. It would be a great opportunity for Punk to settle his scores with Reigns unless he switches over to AEW.
What makes Sting special? His first AEW opponent opens up RIGHT HERE.
