CM Punk Tipped to Retire as Backstage Report Emerges on Company’s Plans

A top WWE Superstar, who has held numerous titles throughout his career, could be set to announce his retirement from the ring sooner than many would have hoped.

That’s according to a bombshell new report from a WWE insider, who has lifted the lid on some major structural changes taking place behind the scenes at the company.

With Triple H’s hierarchy set for a major shake-up, one iconic Superstar is being heavily linked with a promotion that could see him step into a new role sooner rather than later. However, it could come at the expense of seeing his charisma and in-ring magic far less often.

WWE Legend Could Be Set For Huge New Role Outside of the Ring

It seems that the trust and admiration that WWE decision-makers have for CM Punk is so strong that he is allegedly being eyed for a major backstage role, with his contributions to the business since his shocking return at Survivor Series 2023 enough to reward him in the long run.

According to PW Insider, Punk – whose real name is Phil Brooks – is in the early stages of training to be Shawn Michaels’ replacement in NXT.

The outlet reported last month that Michaels is expected to replace retiring WWE executive Bruce Pritchard next year. In Friday’s story, they noted that the Hall of Famer will soon start “splitting his time between NXT and WWE HQ to prepare for that transition.”

It is why they also noted that “Punk has been at the majority of WWE NXT broadcasts in recent weeks alongside Michaels and is currently being prepped for that role.”

Punk Would Be An Ideal Fit For NXT

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The Straight Edge Superstar, an eight-time world champion, would be the perfect fit for the company. The future Hall of Famer has done a lot in the wrestling industry and can offer a ton of valuable advice to prospects.

Punk rose from the independent scene to become a top star in WWE despite not having a classic “look.” He has always been a talented mat wrestler, but he is a master at storytelling in the ring.

Yet, he is probably best known for his skills on the mic and how valuable that ability is in becoming a star. Furthermore, in his second run in the company, he has shown he also understands the importance of the business side and promoting WWE content.

Punk can impart so much valuable knowledge on many different topics – including how not to act backstage – and he has a strong understanding of what WWE needs and wants in its talent. Furthermore, at 48, he is closer in age to the current roster and has a strong understanding of what current fans like and want compared to others.

Of course, though, it will be a sad day when Punk announces the start of his leaving tour, with many believing he’s in the best shape of his life – and, thanks to having a decade-long break from the company, could probably still be going well into his 50s.