CM Punk’s return to WWE has been one of the most talked-about stories in wrestling, but perhaps the biggest endorsement yet comes from The Undertaker himself. Speaking on Busted Open, the WWE legend praised Punk’s growth, noting a significant change in his demeanor since his earlier run with the company.
“He’s actually very pleasant to be around… it’s like a different guy. It’s like a weight has been lifted off of him,” The Undertaker said.
Punk, known for his outspoken nature and past backstage tensions, was often seen as difficult to work with. However, Taker now sees him as someone who is engaged, personable, and willing to share his knowledge with younger talent.
“Before he left the first time, he was very aloof, sometimes combative. One of those guys that wanted to fight for every hill, even if it wasn’t in a good way,” he explained. “Now, he’s cutting up with people, engaging in conversations. It tells me that’s probably a consistent thing for him now.”
Punk recently appeared at the WWE Performance Center to mentor up-and-coming talent, further showcasing this newfound maturity. Undertaker believes that if Punk chooses to, he could become a respected veteran who helps shape the future of WWE.
As Punk prepares for his Elimination Chamber match, his in-ring abilities remain top-tier—but perhaps his biggest transformation has been behind the scenes.
The Undertaker and CM Punk
The Undertaker and CM Punk’s rivalry culminated during their WrestleMania 29 program in 2013, following Punk’s victory in a fatal four-way match to challenge Undertaker’s undefeated streak. Their relationship had started years earlier, with Undertaker mentoring Punk on WWE’s dress code policies, maintaining a generally positive working relationship despite occasional tensions.
The storyline intensified following the real-life passing of Paul Bearer, Undertaker’s longtime manager. Punk incorporated Bearer’s death into the narrative, stealing his symbolic urn and using it to taunt Undertaker, culminating in a controversial segment where Punk poured the urn’s ashes over his opponent. Their WrestleMania match featured Living Colour performing Punk’s entrance theme and several dramatic near-falls before Undertaker secured victory with two Tombstone Piledrivers.
The match received widespread acclaim, earning 4½ stars from Dave Meltzer and ranking as WrestleMania 29’s highest-rated contest. Paul Heyman later revealed he had suggested Punk break the streak to potentially prevent his WWE departure. Both performers have expressed mutual respect, with Undertaker praising their match and dismissing rumors of backstage animosity.