While CM Punk was at AEW, the feud with MJF caught a lot of attention. During that time, they received much popularity among fans.
Reflecting on this rivalry during an interview with Ariel Helwani on “The MMA Hour,” Punk offered his candid thoughts on Friedman.
Despite not goinf deeply into the feud, Punk expressed his belief that it surpassed all other aspects of his AEW experience.
“I think it’s head and shoulders above everything else,” Punk asserted. Helwani then highlighted Punk’s noticeable absence from social media platform X (formerly Twitter), prompting the veteran to disclose that he had deleted the app, branding it a “cesspool.”
Punk acknowledged a niche audience seemingly rooting for his downfall, even expressing sympathy for those who disliked him.
“I get it, I say what’s on my mind, I’m abrasive, I’m honest — a lot of people don’t like honesty.”
Punk revisited his thoughts on MJF, pinpointing moments where he believes the star fell short.
“I think MJF is great, and I think where he wasn’t great is where he catered to that small niche internet audience.”
Punk discussed the enduring legacy of AEW and acknowledged his evolving definitions of success since his indie wrestling days.
Despite this, he expressed confidence in the promotion’s longevity, asserting, “I think it’s always going to exist as long as Tony wants to put money in it.”
However, he cautioned against prioritizing five-star match ratings over arena attendance.
“If you’re more content with receiving praise for a five-star match while the arena is only a quarter full, then we’re not in the same business.”
CM Punk has left AEW after a backstage altercation with Jack Perry. However, he leaves behind an entertaining legacy for AEW fans.
