CM Punk addressed the “part-timer” criticism that has followed him since his return to WWE, vehemently denying that he is hypocritical for working a lighter schedule than he did in his youth. Speaking on Notsam Wrestling, Punk argued that his current run is defined by choice rather than obligation, and that he is far more active than his detractors claim.
“You know what they do with me? Like, everything’s a gotcha. ‘He said he hated part timers. Look at him. He’s a part timer now,’” Punk said, mocking the online discourse. “I elect to be on every single show, if the travels allows it.”
To prove his point, Punk highlighted his participation in the recent non-televised “Christmas loop,” a run of holiday house shows after Christmas. “We just did a Christmas loop. Like Christmas loop is fun. Harkens back to the old school days, where I can get on the road, get in the car, drive to the next town,” Punk said. “I’m on my own clock. I get to see the fans.”
Punk also spoke emotionally about the return of his wife, AJ Lee, to WWE programming. He described the moment as a vindication of their past struggles and contributions to the industry. When asked about his visible pride during her return segment, Punk offered a poetic metaphor for their current status in the wrestling world.
“That’s where those [moments] intersect,” Punk said of his career and personal life. “To me, all of that was showcasing like, this is you coming back to sit under the shade of trees that you planted 12 years ago.”
He acknowledged that while some people still try to “discredit” their past contributions, he has reached a place of peace regarding his legacy. “I feel like that a little bit… and I’m at the point now where I’m just like, all right, man… I’ll be over here doing my thing,” Punk stated.
Ultimately, Punk views the constant conversation surrounding his schedule and status—whether positive or negative—as a net positive for the company. “Here’s the thing, they’re talking about me, right? Constantly,” he concluded. “It’s good for business.”
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit the Notsam Wrestling podcast with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
