The stage is nearly set for MJF to make a triumphant return to AEW. We last saw the brash Long island loudmouth on the June 1st edition of AEW Dynamite. This was an eventful show. Just days after losing his former enforcer Wardlow at Double or Nothing, MJF cut a “pipe bomb” promo that people will be talking about for years to come. That was also the night CM Punk broke his foot. The injury kept Punk of action for months and changed the course of AEW storylines. After some jarring detours, we’re almost back on track.

MJF hasn’t been heard from since that fateful night. Punk recently returned to action, perhaps too soon. During his absence, Jon Moxley became the Interim AEW World Champion. The belts were unified on the August 24th edition of Dynamite. Moxley steamrolled Punk in a matter of minutes.

Punk gets a shot at redemption tonight at All Out. It’s a chance for him to make things right in front of his hometown crowd and truly begin an AEW World title reign that was knocked off course due to injury three months ago. It’s also a golden opportunity for MJF to storm back into the picture and renew his blood feud with his most detested rival to date.

MJF’s Golden Opportunity

Punk and MJF had a bitter feud earlier this year, which seems like ages ago after all that’s transpired since. Punk was victorious when they clashed at Revolution. Their dog collar match was a bloody affair, as advertised. MJF lost that night, but he never lost sight of humbling and humiliating Punk.

MJF knows Punk on the verge of sweet redemption. Winning the AEW World Championship from Hangman Page was a big deal, but the stakes are much higher this time. Punk will have to muster everything he’s got to defeat Moxley.

If he does so, it will be a euphoric moment for 43 year old. He’s questioned himself, he’s wondered if “his 100%” is enough to be the best anymore. He’ll be on top of the world if he regains the title from Moxley. And if he does – it’s the perfect opportunity for MJF to emerge and shatter Punk’s world.

Tony Khan has said the AEW roster will be as strong as it’s ever been after All Out. You can’t really get there without your hottest young prospect back in the fold. MJF hates CM Punk. He’s hell-bent on becoming AEW Champion.

We’re also just a few weeks away from Grand Slam, the upcoming stadium show that will be held just miles away from where MJF grew up. AEW may have other plans in the works, but you’d be hard pressed to book a better scenario that maximizes the impact of MJF’s return and catapults him to where he belongs.

• MJF-AEW Situation Shows Wrestling is at its Best When the Lines are Blurred

Jon Moxley defeated CM Punk on the August 24th edition of AEW Dynamite in shocking fashion.

CM Punk became the AEW Champion by defeating Hangman Adam Page at Double or Nothing. However, a broken foot would keep Punk out of action for a couple of months and Jon Moxley became Interim AEW Champion. The belts were unified on August 24th after Moxley defeated CM Punk with ease.

It led to Punk questioning himself the following week but getting the pump-up speech he needed from long-time friend and AEW producer, Ace Steel. Earlier in the night, Jon left an open contract in the ring and Ace grabbed it.

Punk signed the contract and fired up the crowd in the NOW Arena. Moxley will defend the AEW Championship against CM Punk this Sunday at All Out.

"Life isn't about how many times you get knocked down; it's about how many times you get up!" Did Ace Steel's emotional plea get through to CM Punk?! Tune in to #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS! pic.twitter.com/9MA4qjUyVE

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) September 1, 2022

Jon Moxley Warns CM Punk Ahead of All Out

AEW Champion Jon Moxley spoke about being a father and the lessons he learned along the way in a backstage promo ahead of the title match tomorrow night. Jon noted that he started wrestling when he was 11 years old and he learned that he can have anything he wants as long as he’s willing to work harder than everyone.

“This Sunday I’m wrestling Chicago-made CM Punk, the little punk rock kid from Chicago! People say that me and CM Punk are a lot alike. Sure we have traveled some of the same roads and had some of the same rivals. We’ve even won some of the same championships. But no, me and CM Punk are nothing alike.”

#AEW Undisputed World Champion @JonMoxley had some choice words for @CMPunk, ahead of their World Championship showdown TOMORROW at #AEWAllOut LIVE on PPV.

Order it now on major providers, @BleacherReport, intl @FiteTV+@ppv_com pic.twitter.com/CoOHYv0JvV

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) September 4, 2022

Moxley continued and explained one fundamental difference he has with the challenger at All Out:

“There is one fundamental difference between me and CM Punk for example. Say I had a broken foot, not like a CM Punk broken foot, but say you had a wooden block and a sledgehammer and did a Kathy Bates from Misery on my foot right now. I’d have a broken foot going into Sunday, you think I’d care? Even a little bit?”

Moxley added that Punk has an ego that always needs attention and claimed that the Chicago crowd will not bother him at at all. The AEW Champion said that this all could wind up being a good story after all at All Out.

“This could be a great story. I’m gonna give you a chance, you say you are the heartbeat of Chicago, I’m the heartbeat of this business. When guys get in the ring with me, we find out what they are made of. I’m gonna give you a chance to be better than you’ve ever been, more than you ever have been.

I’m gonna give you a chance on Sunday to be that guy that you’ve been pretending to be for all these years. CM Punk, that messiah that everyone is looking up to, that all these fans believed in. A lot of guys, a lot of wrestlers from my generation believed in that turned out to be so full of sh*t.

I’m gonna give you a chance to be that guy, if that guy really exists, yeah Sunday would be the appropriate time for him to show up. Me? I’m not what you would call a “CM Punk fan” so I could care less. This isn’t just the biggest match of your life Punk, this is your life. Defined.”

AEW All Out takes place this Sunday from the NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates, Illinois (suburban Chicago). This will be the third incarnation of AEW’s All Out PPV event from the venue (2019, 2021, 2022). The 2020 edition was held in Florida due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The site was also home to the All In PPV event which helped lead to the launch of the promotion.

SEScoops correspondents Andrew Ravens, Robert Lentini, and Ryan Droste have assembled to provide our official AEW All Out predictions.

• Updated Betting Odds for Sunday’s AEW All Out PPV

Trios Final: The Elite vs. The Dark Order or The Best Friends

Ryan Droste: Although at the time of this publishing, The Elite’s opponent is not finalized, I’m just going to go ahead and assume it will be The Dark Order (complete with Adam Page). This is a tough one to predict. Does Page turn on the Dark Order? Do they play into Page vs. The Elite some more? Push come to shove, I’ll go with The Elite. (Prediction: The Elite)

Robert Lentini: I think The Elite will emerge victorious at All Out, no matter the opponent. Best Friends and Orange Cassidy would make fun inaugural Trios Champions. Dark Order with Hangman Page would be a cool story. I feel like Hangman Page interacting with CM Punk is much more interesting though. Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks as the first Trios Champions seems like the way to go, especially if Omega doesn’t have to do as much as he is just returning from injury. (Prediction: The Elite)

Consensus: The Elite

Wardlow and FTR vs. Jay Lethal and the Motor City Machine Guns

Ryan Droste: This will be cool to see the MCMG in AEW, but there’s absolutely no way Wardlow or FTR should even be considered to lose this match. (Prediction: Wardlow and FTR)

Robert Lentini: I feel like the TNT Champion and ROH Tag Team Champions should be doing something much more interesting at the PPV. They have to win this match. I can’t even imagine them losing it. (Prediction: Wardlow and FTR)

Andrew Ravens: This should be a great match and the perfect spot to put some shine on Wardlow, who has cooled off in recent weeks. I can understand the argument of having the heels go over if there are future plans for them, but this appears to be a one-off so let the faces go over. (Prediction: FTR & Wardlow)

Consensus: Wardlow and FTR

AEW Women’s Title: Britt Baker vs. Jamie Hayter vs. Toni Storm vs. Hikaru Shida

Ryan Droste: We know that Storm was slated to win the AEW Women’s Championship before the card was changed due to Thunder Rosa’s absence. I think that Jamie Hayter would be an interesting choice here, and I’d love to see it, but I’ll go with the original plan and stick with Storm. (Prediction: Toni Storm)

Robert Lentini: AEW was originally going to do Thunder Rosa versus Toni Storm at All Out, so I think they will just give the Interim Championship to Toni. Britt Baker makes the most logical sense as she’s still one of the only stars in the division, but I’d rather see Toni get a chance as champion at the moment and see if she can be a star as well. (Prediction: Toni Storm)

Andrew Ravens: There are only two names that make sense here, and that’s Baker and Storm. The oddsmakers are backing Storm since she was originally supposed to challenge Thunder Rosa for the title at this show. Baker could be made the champion, but I don’t see that happening unless she is going to beat Rosa to become the real champion. I’ll side with Storm and have AEW go with their original plans for a match against Rosa. (Prediction: Toni Storm)

Consensus: Toni Storm

Casino Ladder Match: Claudio Castagnoli vs. Wheeler Yuta vs. Penta El Zero Miedo vs. Rey Fénix vs. Rush vs. Andrade El Idolo vs. Dante Martin vs. TBD

Ryan Droste:A lot of this is dependent on who The Joker is of course, but of the announced lineup, Claudio is the only one I can see getting a shot at the AEW World Title right now. The ROH Champion vs. the AEW Champion would be a fun one. (Prediction: Claudio Castagnoli)

Robert Lentini: I’ve been waiting for MJF’s return since he left. It makes sense for MJF and CM Punk to meet again and Maxwell will get a future title shot if he wins the Casino Ladder match. I’ll pick MJF to return as The Joker and ensure a future shot for the AEW Championship on his first night back. (Prediction: MJF)

Andrew Ravens: I’m taking the mystery person as the joker entrant to win the match. I believe it will be MJF. AEW reportedly is bringing him back soon, and I think this would be the perfect spot as it’s a surprise that fans will like and gets him a title shot right away. (Prediction: MJF)

Consensus: Split

Bryan Danielson vs. Chris Jericho

Ryan Droste: Danielson. No deep thoughts about this one. Should be a fun match, but it’d make no sense to beat Bryan here. I hope to see him in the world title picture very soon, so he has to win here. (Prediction: Bryan Danielson)

Robert Lentini: The build to this match has centered on Daniel Garcia and whether or not he’s a pro wrestler or a sports entertainer. It has been odd to watch, but these are still two of the biggest stars in the company. Daniel Garcia is battling Blackpool Combat Club’s Wheeler Yuta on Dynamite for the ROH Pure Championship, so it will be interesting to see if he plays a factor in this match. Bryan Danielson should get the win here and start working his way back into the title picture. I still wish they gave him the AEW Championship last year. I have no want to see Bryan Danielson on the losing end of another match involving Jericho. Anarchy in the Arena was enough of that for me. (Prediction: Bryan Danielson)

Andrew Ravens: Danielson should go over here. This should be a really fun match that, I think, kicks off the show. Jericho doesn’t need the win, but Danielson feels like he needs to be reset, and a win over Jericho would do just that. (Prediction: Bryan Danielson)

Consensus: Bryan Danielson

AEW Tag Team Champions Swerve In Our Glory vs. The Acclaimed

Ryan Droste: The Acclaimed is the hotter act right now, by far, and Strickland and Lee seem like a better fit in the singles division long term. The team was fun while it lasted, but it’s time to give The Acclaimed their due and strike while the iron is hot. (Prediction: The Acclaimed)

Robert Lentini: I’m all for The Acclaimed winning the titles on Friday. They are wildly entertaining and the crowd loves them. Max Caster and Anthony Bowens have also improved greatly in the ring since they signed with the company. If Keith Lee and Swerve Strickland are going to be a tag team for years, then keep the belts on them. I just don’t think that will be the case and would love to see The Acclaimed have their moment in AEW. (Prediction: The Acclaimed)

Andrew Ravens: The Acclaimed is mega over with the fans, and I can see them going over here. Lee and Strickland are a fun tag team, but while The Acclaimed is still hot, keep the rocket burning and put the titles on them. (Prediction: The Acclaimed)

Consensus: The Acclaimed

Jungle Boy vs. Christian Cage

Ryan Droste: The long-anticipated feud between these two has had its moments, but overall it has unfortunately showcased some of Jungle Boy’s shortcomings. Matched up with one of the better talks in the modern history of the business, Jungle Boy’s microphone skills have appeared weak. Do they continue the feud or move Jungle Boy on to something else where his greatest weakness isn’t so prominent? I’ll go with Jungle Boy here. (Prediction: Jungle Boy)

Robert Lentini: This feud started off great with Christian Cage’s incredibly distasteful promos on Jungle Boy while sporting a turtleneck. However, Jungle Boy’s promos didn’t have the same energy and brought the excitement level down for the match. Jungle Boy should definitely get the win though and I also predict it will be one of the better matches of the night. (Prediction: Jungle Boy)

Andrew Ravens: There’s no reason why Jungle Boy shouldn’t win the match. Let the younger guy get a big win over a veteran and move on to something else. (Prediction: Jungle Boy)

Consensus: Jungle Boy

Ricky Starks vs. Powerhouse Hobbs

Ryan Droste: A real tossup. I think Starks can recover from a loss and you have Hobbs look strong here. (Prediction: Powerhouse Hobbs)

Robert Lentini: Ricky Starks can explain away a loss because he’s incredibly gifted on the microphone. Hobbs needs to be treated like a man named Powerhouse and win this match in impressive fashion. (Prediction: Powerhouse Hobbs)

Andrew Ravens: Honestly, this is a pick ’em, and it comes down to which star Tony Khan wants a little bit more of a push. I see more upside with Starks and would have him go over. (Prediction: Ricky Starks)

Consensus: Split

AEW TBS Champion Jade Cargill vs. Athena

Ryan Droste: Zero chance Jade loses here, nor should she. The biggest lock on the card. (Prediction: Jade Cargill)

Robert Lentini: Jade Cargill will walk out of All Out as still the TBS Champion and I’d be shocked if that wasn’t the case. Athena has been a great addition to the roster and hopefully, she can help that division as it grows. There’s no reason to hand Jade her first loss and take the title away from her right now. (Prediction: Jade Cargill)

Andrew Ravens: I don’t know who is going to be the right person to beat Jade, but at this point, she really should just be the Women’s Champion. I still have no idea why AEW introduced the TBS Title aside from Tony Khan liking championships. Athena could be the person, but I don’t think it’s time yet. (Prediction: Jade Cargill)

Consensus: Jade Cargill

House of Black vs. Miro, Darby Allin, and Sting

Ryan Droste: A tough one to pick because there hasn’t been a whole lot in the way of build. House of Black feels pretty insignificant right now. I’ll go with the babyfaces. Miro could use a strong win, Darby could use a hot streak, and Sting is Sting. (Prediction: Miro, Darby Allin, and Sting)

Robert Lentini: This is another 6-man tag that feels a bit thrown together. House of Black has never really gotten over with the AEW audience and it wouldn’t shock me if they get defeated by a random collection of talent. I’ll pick Miro, Darby, and Sting to win in a fun match. (Prediction: Miro, Darby Allin, and Sting)

Andrew Ravens: I’ll side with the babyfaces. I think House of Black needs to win here, but Sting usually goes over when he wrestles. It should be a fun match, especially when Sting gets the hot tag, and the crowd goes crazy. (Prediction: Darby Allin, Sting, and Miro).

Consensus: Miro, Darby Allin, and Sting

AEW World Champion Jon Moxley vs. CM Punk

Ryan Droste: They don’t do the quick match last week on Dynamite without having Punk win here. It’d make no sense for him to lose twice in a row, and it would seem the entire purpose of having him lose last week was so that he can regain the championship in his hometown. (Prediction: CM Punk)

Robert Lentini: CM Punk gave his rallying cry on Dynamite to the Chicago crowd at the NOW Arena and there’s no beating him now. His first title run was disastrously cut short and the company has been running in place ever since. They have to give CM Punk the title again and give him a proper run with it. Jon Moxley will get the AEW Championship again one day if he sticks around. He’s one of the biggest stars in the company but who knows how long CM Punk will be in AEW? Let’s try to get the most out of it. CM Punk wins his title back and Moxley bleeds all over the place. (Prediction: CM Punk)

Andrew Ravens: CM Punk wins. He has to win. It doesn’t make sense for them to go through all of this and not have Punk win the title. This has been a messy situation, but if AEW does go through with Punk winning, then the question remains of a trilogy happening. Perhaps that is saved for the Arthur Ashe Stadium show. (Prediction: CM Punk)

Consensus: CM Punk

During last week’s AEW Dynamite, then-World Champion CM Punk declared that he would unify his title with Interim AEW World Champion Jon Moxley, in the main event of All Out 2022.

Instead, the two had their title unification match on this week’s Dynamite, which saw Moxley destroy Punk to be crowned the AEW Undisputed World Champion.

The Main Event

With AEW’s arguable biggest match ever taking place earlier this week, this has left All Out 2022 without a main event, or so it would seem.

During Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer confirmed that despite the match announced for All Out happening on this week’s Dynamite, the plan has not changed.

“It is Punk and Moxley. I don’t know if they’re gonna add stips or whatever but that is the main event.”

Dave Meltzer

It is unclear how AEW will put Punk back in the title picture, especially with All Out just over one week away.

Punk-Moxley 2: Should it Happen?

With AEW All Out 2022 fast approaching, it makes sense that the promotion wants a main event that already has a story connected.

However, some fans have questioned whether Punk should receive a rematch so quickly after not just being beaten, but beaten decisively by Moxley.

While AEW’s story appears to be that Punk returned from his injury too soon, as seen by how little offense he got in during the title-unification match, it makes little sense that he would try again mere days after being defeated with ease.

Some have suggested that the loss on Dynamite was done to make Punk’s title win at All Out 2022 ‘bigger’ and kick off the title run that was supposed to start earlier this year prior to his injury.

In the latest AEW rankings, Hangman Page, Powerhouse Hobbs, Jay Lethal, Darby Allin, and Bryan Danielson are all in line for an AEW Undisputed World Champion opportunity.

4 Reasons CM Punk vs. Jon Moxley is More Than Just a Title Match

CM Punk is shutting down “bullshit” rumors about him and says he’s more than content in All Elite Wrestling.

Punk has been the subject of much discussion over the last week following his “unplanned” promo on Adam Page on AEW Dynamite. It led to rumors that Punk had been showing his displeasure backstage just a year after joining the company in dramatic fashion last summer.

Some speculate that Tony Khan and AEW are leveraging the buzz about “backstage drama” to generate interest in the product.

As for Punk, he isn’t shy of discussing the matter. The champ recently sat down with Sports Illustrated to promote his world title unification matchup with Jon Moxley at AEW Dynamite in Cleveland, a match that was originally set for ALL OUT.

When talking about his reported displeasure, Punk addresses internet rumors & social media. He’s focused and appreciates that AEW gave him a second chance to do what he’s great at.

“You try not to put too much stock in internet rumors. But for AEW, I definitely think that’s part of our audience. Twitter’s not real life, though. On top of that, a lie makes its way around the world twice before the truth puts his boots on or gets out of bed.”

“If I addressed every rumor, I’d be here all day. I love AEW. It’s not a competition of who loves it more or who’s the heart and soul, or who’s this and who’s that. AEW allowed me a second chance to do what I do best, and that’s professionally wrestle.”

– CM Punk (Sports Illustrated)

Come Talk With Me

Punk makes it clear that his locker room door is never closed. If anybody has a problem with him, or feel like sending fake news to wrestling journalists, to talk with him personally.

“It’s one side of the story. My locker room is never closed. It’s always open. Anybody who wants to DM Meltzer some bulls— can come talk to me about it. It’s not macho, stupid bulls—. I’m an adult. Come talk with me.”

Punk vs. Moxley

Finally Punk hypes up his showdown with the Purveyor of Violence, which many are calling one of the most important matches in AEW’s short history.

“I don’t want to let the team down, but I don’t want to reinjure myself. I told my wife, my surgeon, and Tony [Khan] that I’m in a rush to be healthy, not in a rush to get back. Whereas, in the past, two weeks after knee surgery, it was, ‘I’ll owe you one, pal. We need you to do this match.’ I didn’t feel comfortable about that. I feel 100% testing my limits on Dynamite.”

Check out our article explaining why Moxley vs. Punk is much more than a title match right here.

AEW World Champion CM Punk will battle AEW Interim Champion Jon Moxley tonight on Dynamite to determine the Undisputed Champion. All signs were pointing to this match happening at All Out early next month but it was surprisingly booked for tonight’s show.

Here are 4 reasons CM Punk versus Jon Moxley for the AEW Championship is more than just a title match:

The Company Needs Some Momentum

AEW Dynamite has flatlined in the ratings just below 1 million viewers, but thankfully they have an established and loyal audience that tunes in every week. The issue is that AEW President Tony Khan has spent a ton on contracts for ex-WWE talent that haven’t really made a huge difference yet in regards to attracting the casual fan.

It is hard to get invested in some of the talent when they are only featured once a month on television. Wardlow capturing the TNT Championship should have felt more important by now. He finally was able to rid himself of MJF and capture some gold, so why he is in a 6-man tag at the PPV?

The TNT Champion is wrapped up in a storyline with Sonjay Dutt, Jay Lethal, and Satnam Singh. ROH Tag Team Champions and forever #1 contenders in AEW without getting a title shot, FTR, will be joining teaming up with Wardlow to battle the trio of heels at All Out. The match will likely be entertaining but it feels like an egregious missed opportunity for both the Wardlow and FTR to be in bigger storylines.

CM Punk versus Jon Moxley needs to deliver tonight in order to get people talking about how exciting All Elite Wrestling is again. Many fans are scratching their head and wondering what is going on at the moment. These two should have a long feud with a story, with weeks of promos and attacks, not a rushed title match to pop a rating. However, if tonight’s show is newsworthy and gets people talking about the product over the drama backstage, then maybe it was worth it.

Jon Moxley vs. CM Punk. #AEWDynamite pic.twitter.com/DrGNknZCjI

— JJ Williams (@JJWilliamsWON) August 23, 2022

Fan Perception Has Changed

All Elite Wrestling arrived as the cool kid in the wrestling industry, while Vince McMahon’s vision for professional wrestling felt dated and borderline unwatchable at times. None of that applies anymore, just a month after Vince departed the company and his son-in-law, Triple H, has taken over as Head of Creative.

WWE has not only turned the page, but they’ve also flipped the script. They are now the cool company in the wrestling industry that talent is signing with. It is stunning how quickly the perception surrounding WWE has changed, despite unprecedented chaos at the top of the company over the summer.

Nowadays, AEW feels dated in comparison. The Jericho Appreciation Society refers to themselves as “sports entertainers” while Drew McIntyre is dropping the word “wrestler” in his promos on RAW. At this point, AEW is parodying itself and not the competition.

“I don’t care if you’re a prize fighter, a sports entertainer or superstar. We’re wrestlers in a wrestling ring. Let’s just freaking wrestle.”

This Drew McIntyre promo was special ?

(via @WWE)pic.twitter.com/9i4kjXr8JR

— B/R Wrestling (@BRWrestling) August 16, 2022

Talent Getting In Each other’s Way

Before his promo with Jon Moxley on last week’s Dynamite, the AEW Champion bizarrely called out Hangman Adam Page in his home state of West Virginia. He sat in the ring in his iconic pose and challenged Hangman to a rematch. The 43-year-old captured the AEW Championship from Hangman at Double or Nothing, only to break his foot the following Wednesday and go on the shelf for two months.

CM Punk gave Adam a few moments to come to the ring before uttering “that isn’t cowboy sh*t, that is coward sh*t”. It was an odd moment, but most people moved on when Moxley showed up. However, the incident was reportedly unplanned and Punk acted on his own to give Hangman a “receipt” for a perceived slight during a previous promo between the two.

Something just always seems to go awry now. Jonathan Gresham flipping out before Death Before Dishonor due to lack of communication from management, Tony’s unprofessional response to Big Swole, Cody Rhodes exiting the company, and the whole MJF thing, Why are Miro and Andrade liking tweets hinting at their unhappiness? It is always something, at least at least it appears that way.

During the post-Double or Nothing media scrum after CM Punk won the title, he said the following about AEW in comparison to WWE:”It felt like 10 years of fighting silly battles and standing on my own d*ck. I feel there’s no limitation put on myself or anybody, the sky’s the limit.” He’s used that phrase multiple times in reference to WWE.

That seems to contradict Fightful’s report of Punk telling management that he would not lose to Hangman Page. From the outside looking in, it appears AEW is repeatedly standing on themselves at the moment.

“Nobodies standing on their own dick. They just let stuff happen.”

– CM Punk on the difference between WWE and AEW pic.twitter.com/LVc4NmtLJX

— JTEonYT (@JTEonYT) August 21, 2021

The Possible Return Of An Unlikely Hero

One of the possible reasons that the title match may have been moved up was because the promotion has a better main event planned for AEW All Out. If MJF returned, the company would have the majority of its stars back and the shows would instantly improve. MJF is an immense talent, a picture-perfect heel.

He delivered one of the most memorable promos of any promotion, in any time period, and the man is only 26 years old. The Dynamite following his loss to Wardlow at Double or Nothing, not too many people were discussing the match or even the victorious Wardlow. MJF skipped out a signing during the PPV weekend and reportedly booked a flight out of Vegas. Thankfully, cahooler heads prevailed and he did the job to Wardlow. The distraction still sullied the TNT Champion’s moment and he hasn’t fully recovered.

After MJF’s pipebomb promo, Punk tried to confront MJF but he left through the crowd at The Forum in Los Angeles, and that was the last time he appeared on television. He’s also gone completely dark on social media. If he returns tonight it will inject some much-needed life into the product just a couple of weeks out from All Out. Somehow, MJF has managed to become an even bigger star in the company without even appearing on television.

That MJF promo in (almost) its full glory.

For those looking to relive it.pic.twitter.com/n0O4a7bELn

— NukemTalksWrestling (@NukemWrestling) June 2, 2022

AEW surprised many fans when they announced that World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk and Interim World Champion Jon Moxley would collide in an undisputed title bout on tonight’s episode of Dynamite instead of saving it for the All Out pay-per-view event in Chicago next Sunday. 

Moxley vs. Punk

Fightful Select reports that sources indicated “Moxley was in favor of the move, and one source even indicated that it was his idea and pitch, and All Elite Wrestling went with it.”

One source noted that Punk eventually agreed to it. It’s unclear if this was connected to any of the reported issues with Punk last week. 

Grapsody’s Will Washington noted that he’d heard there was an idea in play a few days before to increase ticket sales and add buzz to the Cleveland show. The decision was not the original plan, and “multiple plans” for AEW All Out had changed.

All Elite Wrestling has still yet to confirm what the main event will be for All Out. 

Mandatory Talent Meeting 

Fightful also reported that AEW will be holding a mandatory talent meeting at Dynamite in Cleveland, OH with company president Tony Khan in attendance. 

Talent does expect management to address “the rumors of unrest, contract inquiries, and personal issues, as well as those things being leaked.”

As previously reported, Tony Schiavone dismissed that there is a lot of backstage tension in the promotion by calling the reports bulls**t.

Tony Khan confirms there are issues between CM Punk and Hangman Page.

The All Elite Wrestling (AEW) president confirmed during an appearance on Busted Open Radio that there is “unresolved anger” between the pair. Seemingly due to something from their match at Double Or Nothing.

It’s unresolved anger, I think, from the world title match at Double or Nothing, and we had not really tied up all of those issues. CM Punk made one appearance to wrestle after Double or Nothing and then it was immediately after that, that he got injured and was forced to step away. So there was clearly some stuff that never got resolved at Double or Nothing.” 

Tony Khan on CM Punk & Hangman Page’s Relationship

Legitimate Heat

Punk made some unscripted comments about Page last week on AEW Dynamite. The AEW World Champion challenged Page to a World Title match right on the spot, before calling him a coward for not coming out. He then moved on to cutting a promo on Jon Moxley.

Prior to the show, Punk reportedly had a meeting with Khan about the ordeal. There were even reports that Punk was considering not showing up to Dynamite at all.

While his on-screen rivalry with Page seems to be done with, the issues between the pair backstage are still very much alive.

Punk is currently slated to face Jon Moxley in an AEW World Title unification bout on tonight’s episode of Dynamite.

Why is Punk vs. Moxley taking place on Dynamite?

Tony Khan also addressed the surprising news that Punk vs. Moxley will take place on AEW Dynamite instead of at All Out.

“It’s a great match for the fans now and I feel like it would be a great match at any time,” said Khan. “But tonight, it felt like the right night for this big fight, and given that last week, we really could not keep these guys apart, it just did not seem sustainable to try and have this show get taken down week after week by these guys who were clearly just going to tear the ring apart if we continued this way.”

Khan said we are going to have a much clearer picture of the AEW All Out card after tonight’s Dynamite.

Over the last week multiple reports have surfaced stating that there have been a number of backstage issues going on in AEW, specifically citing the CM Punk promo on Adam Page as Punk “going into business for himself” for being upset at something Page said during their Double or Nothing match build.

Aside from that there were rumors that things were incredibly hectic backstage and several talents were unhappy. However, one top AEW name refutes those rumors.

Tony Schiavone, who recently got promoted to a Senior Producer and Special Advisor to Talent, appeared on the What Happened When podcast with Conrad Thompson to discuss the matter and to confirm that most of the reports have been completely overblown.

“There are some challenges, as you know, and of course the internet is going crazy about this or that. I’m not going to get into it because… I’m going to say this right now, things are not as bad as bullshit people on the internet would say. Not even close to it.”

Schiavone Enjoying His New Role with AEW

Schiavone adds that certain plans are in motion that are going to make thinks in AEW better than ever.

“We’ve got some things in place now that I think are going to make us better than ever.”

The backstage turmoil wasn’t the only thing Schiavone touched on. He also spoke about his his new position and how much he’s been enjoying the new responsibilities.

“[I] enjoy my job, enjoy my new responsibilities with the company. They are challenging, but those are challenges that I readily accepted when I took the job. I’m seeing a whole new part of wrestling and wrestlers that I didn’t see before.”

This interview with Schiavone came out ahead of this evening’s AEW Dynamite, which will featured the highly anticipated undisputed world title matchup between CM Punk and Jon Moxley.

(Quotes via Fightful)

CM Punk and Jon Moxley go to war tonight on AEW Dynamite to determine the Undisputed AEW World Champion.

This will not be the first time the Chicago Savior and the Purveyor of Violence have clashed inside the squared circle. They worked together extensively on WWE television, but many fans may not be aware that they once wrestled in WWE’s former developmental territory, Florida Championship Wrestling.

This match in FCW convinced him that Moxley was no ordinary talent. Punk saw something very familiar in Mox. He saw himself.

“I hate saying that anybody is the next CM Punk. I don’t wish that upon anybody, but I think if anybody was, it’s this guy. He’s got it.”

– CM Punk on Jon Moxley (2012)

The Next CM Punk

CM Punk spoke about Jon Moxley’s potential in a resurfaced video from 2012’s Wizard World Comic Con event. Punk raves that the Cincinnati fighter has all the tools to make it to the top of the industry, including just the right amount of crazy.

“[Moxley] is special. I say that and I mean it both ways,” said Punk. “He’s a little touched up here (points to head), but I think you have to be to do what we do. I hate saying that anybody is the next CM Punk. I don’t wish that upon anybody, but I think if anybody was it’s this guy. He’s got it.”

Punk continued, “Something about him. He can talk, he can work. I’m fortunate that I got a chance to work with him. I actually got in trouble for wrestling him. I wasn’t suppose to.”

“I went down to FCW to do an autograph signing and it was just an opportunity, and when opportunity strikes I always take a hold of it. I was like, ‘I’m gonna work the kid.’ It was fun, and now we got him on television.”

You can watch a clip of the interview here:

Moxley’s WWE main roster debut came in 2012, when The Shield arrived on the scene as mercenaries for none other than CM Punk. Fast forward a decade, Punk and Moxley have crossed paths once again in AEW.

Punk captured the AEW World title back in May from Adam “Hangman” Page at Double or Nothing. The following week, he’d be sidelined with a foot injury. During his absence, Moxley was crowned Interim champion, his second AEW World reign since the promotion launched back in 2019.

AEW surprised the wrestling world last week when they announced the much-anticipated AEW Championship unification match between CM Punk and Jon Moxley for this Wednesday night on Dynamite.

The match was previously thought to be taking place at All Out during Labor Day weekend. Instead, someone will likely walk away with both belts this Wednesday night. Will the match result in a large television ratings bump? That remains to be seen. And who will be involved in a title match at All Out? That also remains to be answered.

With all of that being said, oddsmakers see one of these men as the heavy favorite to walk out of Cleveland this Wednesday night the undisputed champion: CM Punk. With All Out taking place in his hometown of Chicago in less than two weeks, Bet Online forecasts Punk’s chances at victory at -400. They have Moxley as the underdog at +250.

The Summer of Punk That Wasn’t

CM Punk captured the AEW World Championship from “Hangman” Adam Page back at AEW Double or Nothing Memorial Day weekend in Las Vegas. It was expected to lead to a “Summer of Punk,” with the former multi-time world champion having high profile matches throughout June, July, and August.

Instead, a foot injury sidelined Punk for over two months and Moxley was crowned interim AEW World Champion after a brief tournament.

Since Punk’s surprise return to AEW at Dynamite in Minneapolis two weeks ago, there’s been no shortage of headlines. Last week, Punk took a shot at Page during his promo to start Dynamite, and there have been conflicting reports of real-life animosity between he and Page, as well as he and Moxley.

Nevertheless, Punk has tried to quell some of the rumors that he is unhappy at AEW through postings on social media of late.

Last weekend on Instagram, Punk wrote, “One year ago began the best year of my professional career. Too many great moments, not enough space to post all the great pics. Rekindled passion, made new friends, reunited with old ones. Can’t stop smiling, won’t stop until the wheels fall off. Thank you most of all to all the fans who made it possible. I’m having the time of my life.”

• Tony Khan Reveals That Recent AEW Special Did Record Viewership In The U.K.

Who do you think will walk out of AEW Dynamite as the undisputed world champion? Let us know in the comments section below.

Make sure to check out the Top Rope Nation wrestling podcast for your weekly dose of pro wrestling talk featuring interviews, analysis and exclusive news: Apple – Spotify – YouTube. 

Tony Khan issued a statement on his personal Twitter account promoting this week’s Dynamite on TBS, a show that will feature the highly anticipated showdown between world champion CM Punk and interim champion Jon Moxley, with the winner being crowned the undisputed AEW champion.

The AEW President writes, “Thank you everyone who watches @AEWonTV! In 48 hours Wednesday Night #AEWDynamite @CMPunk vs @JonMoxley to finally crown an Undisputed @AEWWorld Champion! It’s been a great summer of 12 straight weeks & counting for Dynamite on @TBSNetwork in the top 2 shows on cable in the US.”

Along with that, Khan touts the success of AEW’s recent Quake By The Lake television special from two weeks ago, which he reveals scored AEW their record viewership number on ITV4 in the United Kingdom. For those who don’t remember that show was headlined by Jon Moxley taking on Chris Jericho for the AEW world title, with Punk making his surprising return from injury. Khan’s full second tweet reads:

“In addition to a great summer domestically, it’s been a huge summer for @AEW internationally including great news that #AEWDynamite #QuakebyTheLake with @JonMoxley vs @IAmJericho for the @AEW Interim World Title + @CMPunk’s epic return did our UK record viewership on @ITV4 Friday.”

You can check out the tweets below.

In addition to a great summer domestically, it’s been a huge summer for @AEW internationally including great news that #AEWDynamite#QuakebyTheLake with@JonMoxley vs @IAmJericho for the @AEW Interim World Title + @CMPunk’s epic return did our UK record viewership on @ITV4 Friday

— Tony Khan (@TonyKhan) August 22, 2022

Some analysts predicts that AEW will score their biggest viewership and demo increase for this Wednesday’s show due to the Moxley vs. Punk match, as well as the trios tournament matchup between the Death Triangle and NJPW’s Aussie Open & Will Ospreay.

It’s been one year since CM Punk made his triumphant return to pro wrestling, and according to the Straight Edge Star, this has been the best year of his wrestling career. Amid all the controversy surrounding his promo on Dynamite, the AEW champion took on his Instagram to reflect on the one-year anniversary of his return.

He posted some behind-the-scenes photos of his AEW journey so far. Seemingly commenting on the reports that he wanted to quit the company, Punk noted that he wouldn’t stop ‘until the wheels fall off’:

“One year ago began the best year of my professional career. Too many great moments, not enough space to post all the great pics. Rekindled passion, made new friends, reunited with old ones.” wrote CM Punk, “Can’t stop smiling, won’t stop until the wheels fall off. Thank you most of all to all the fans who made it possible. I’m having the time of my life, as there’s a drive into deep left field by Castellanos and that’ll be a home run. And so that’ll make it a 4-0 ballgame.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/ChgNoAyNQt4/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D

• CM Punk’s UFC Opponent Reacts To Recent Controversy

CM Punk left wrestling when he walked out of WWE back in 2014. He mostly stayed away from the industry for almost 6 years before finally making his return during August 20, 2021 episode of Rampage. Punk has reclaimed his spot in the wrestling world since then and he became a world champion once again. He defeated Hangman Page at Double Or Nothing in May to win his first title in almost 9 years.

You can relive CM Punk’s iconic return to wrestling below:

During this week’s episode of AEW Dynamite, CM Punk challenged ‘Hangman’ Adam Page to a title match, which was not accepted by the Cowboy.

It has since been reported that Punk’s actions were not part of the plans for the show, and that the AEW World Champion knew that Page was not scheduled to appear on the show.

Seemingly going into business for himself, Punk’s promo has sparked a discussion among fans about reported real-life beef between himself and the man he dethroned as AEW World Champion in May.

Backstage Drama

Punk and Page appear to have some issues, but they are not the only ones who are causing things to be tense behind the scenes.

Dave Meltzer reported in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that “a ton of backstage drama involving many of the top guys that has gotten much worse in recent weeks.”

Meltzer added that AEW President Tony Khan may have no other choice but to arrange a meeting with everyone to “air everything out” before things get any worse.

“It feels like a number of people are close to their breaking point if things don’t get settled.”

Dave Meltzer on the tensions within AEW right now.

Unhappy Talent

Punk may have a problem with ‘Hangman’ Adam Page, but the reigning AEW World Champion isn’t the only unhappy talent right now.

Earlier this month, Miro liked a tweet suggesting that he had it better in WWE, where he became a three-time United States Champion as ‘Rusev.’

A separate tweet, that argued that Miro was being wasted in AEW, and the same went for Andrade El Idolo, was liked by the former NXT Champion.

CM Punk’s UFC Opponent Reacts To Recent Controversy

All Elite Wrestling (AEW) president Tony Khan reportedly had a meeting with CM Punk before this week’s episode of Dynamite.

There’s reportedly been some issues that Punk has been having backstage with Adam “Hangman” Page.

During this week’s episode of AEW Dynamite, in a promo that was supposed to be angled at Jon Moxley, Punk instead started it off by taking a shot at Page, calling him a “coward.”

Initial reports indicate this was not part of the script. Wade Keller of PWTorch reports that there are, in fact, issues between Punk and Page.

However, he added that some wrestlers backstage in AEW wouldn’t put it past AEW president Tony Khan to do a work-shoot type of thing with it.

Keller did add, however, he doesn’t think that’s the case here. He also stated that Punk met with Khan in his locker room before Dynamite went on-air for a “decent amount of time.”

Despite the drama that unfolded on Dynamite (and all the subsequent fallout), Punk was acting fine backstage before the show with no signs of being disgruntled.

Punk has returned from a foot injury that required surgery to repair. He’s still the AEW World Champion, but in his absence, an interim champion in Jon Moxley was crowned.

Now, Punk will shift his focus to unifying his title with Moxley’s to determine the undisputed AEW World Champion.

CM Punk’s UFC opponent Mike Jackson has taken a dig at the controversy surrounding the AEW star’s recent Dynamite promo.

The AEW world champion had a promo battle with Jon Moxley on this week’s Dynamite. Before this confrontation, he went off script and called out Hangman Page.

Reports that have since come out reveal that there has been real life tension between Punk and Page. It started with a promo Hangman cut during their feud earlier this year.

It’s also been said that CM Punk is not happy in AEW. He has expressed his displeasure so blatantly that some even thought he might quit the company.

Mike Jackson Jokes About CM Punk

Mike Jackson reacted to one such report, which stated that Punk had made it clear that he won’t be losing to Page. The MMA star posted a photo of him beating Punk and joked that he could help with the situation:

If someone needs me, let me know. pic.twitter.com/WETlirUEFJ

— Mike Jackson, Esq. (@TheTruthJackson) August 18, 2022

CM Punk made his UFC debut against Mickey Gall at UFC 203 in September 2016. The former WWE star was taken down by his opponent immediately and he lost the match via a rear naked choke submission in the first round.

His second match came at UFC 225 two years later in June 2018. Punk managed offense in the first round in the bout against Jackson. However, he became fatigued in the second round and lost the bout by unanimous decision after being dominated by Mike.

• What’s Happening with CM Punk and Hangman Adam Page?

This week’s episode of Dynamite featured an explosive CM Punk promo and the much-anticipated return of former AEW champion Kenny Omega, but it doesn’t seem to have helped the TV ratings of the show.

The August 17 episode of the show featuring Omega’s return and the first match of the Trios Title Tournament in the main event drew 957,000 viewers on TBS, according to ShowBuzzDaily.

This is a 1.5% decrease from last week’s episode of the show and the second lowest Dynamite viewership since July 20.

In comparison, last week’s Quake by the Lake special featuring the Jon Moxley vs Chris Jericho AEW World Title match in the main event and the surprise return of CM Punk had averaged 972,000 viewers.

The show finished second on the cable charts for the 18-49 demo. The episode drew a 0.30 rating. This is a 9.1% decline compared to last week’s 0.33 rating and the second lowest key demo rating the show has garnered since moving to TBS.

AEW has announced a big title unification match between CM Punk and Jon Moxley for next week’s Dynamite from Cleveland, OH.

This, coupled with the drama that has followed Punk’s controversial promo on the show may help the Wednesday night program regain some viewers next week.

• CM Punk vs Jon Moxley Match For August 24 Dynamite Was A ‘Late Decision’ (Report)

AEW surprised everyone when they announced a AEW world championship unification match between CM Punk and Jon Moxley for next week’s episode of Dynamite.

Latest reports have now revealed some more details on the bout. They suggest that this wasn’t part of a long term plan the company had for the title.

According to reports from Fightful Select, the Mox vs Punk match for the August 24 Dynamite was ‘a late decision.’ Though they couldn’t elaborate on when exactly the decision was made.

CM Punk made his return from the foot injury at last week’s episode of Dynamite. He saved the interim AEW champion Jon Moxley from a beatdown at the hands of the Jericho Appreciation Society.

The two title holders then had a confrontation. Many expected this face off to lead into a title unification match at the upcoming All Out PPV on September 4.

However, this week’s episode of Dynamite featured a promo battle between the two AEW stars. Punk went into business for himself during the segment, calling out Hangman Page. He later had a brawl with Mox.

Everyone was left surprised when AEW announced after this segment that the title unification match between the former WWE stars will take place on next week’s episode of the show instead of the PPV event.

• What’s Happening with CM Punk and Hangman Adam Page?

CM Punk was trending worldwide on Thursday after a bombshell report by Fightful Select stated that AEW officials were unsure if Punk would appear on this week’s Dynamite as advertised.

The primary issue revolves around Punk’s strained relationship with “Hangman” Adam Page, which stems from their heated feud that culminated with Punk winning the AEW World Championship at Double or Nothing.

Punk has been so vocal about unhappiness with that situation that sources in AEW have wondered if he’ll quit working for the company entirely.

The following is a summary of the developing situation involving CM Punk and AEW:

CM Punk’s Feud with Hangman

The feud between Punk and Page started on the Apr. 20 episode of AEW Dynamite. Leading up to their inevitable clash at Double or Nothing on May 29, the two had gone after each other in promos to build towards the match.

The story onscreen was that Page was taking his match against Punk personal and that Punk thought it was just business. “Hangman” started the war of words by taking shots at Punk in a promo on the May. 4 episode of AEW Dynamite when Punk wasn’t in attendance.

In the promo, the champion said, “…At Double or Nothing, there’s not going to be a handshake. At Double or Nothing, there’s not going to be a masturbatory Bret Hart tribute match. I am going to destroy CM Punk.”

https://twitter.com/davidbix/status/1560347230535618561

The May. 4 episode is the only show where Punk wasn’t in attendance for their build towards Double or Nothing. The last promo with each other took place at AEW Dynamite on May. 25 where Page alluded to Punk personal issues with Colt Cabana.

They finally had their match at Double or Nothing, where Punk defeated Page with his Go-To-Sleep finisher.

CM Punk’s Promo on August 17th

Punk is currently in a program with Interim AEW World Champion Jon Moxley. He made his return after healing his foot injury at AEW Dynamite on Aug 10 to confront the interim champion.

He was set to promote his feud with Moxley on the Aug. 17 episode of AEW Dynamite, but he decided to address Page for an unknown reason. He called Page out and referred to him as a coward, which Wrestling Observer Radio’s Dave Meltzer shared wasn’t planned.

Punk actions caught fans and reportedly the AEW roster by surprise, including Page. However, the story behind Punk’s promo got more interesting after the Fightful Select report on Aug. 18.

Fightful Details Regarding Punk

Fightful Select had followed up on Punk’s action and reports that those close to Punk believe that he contemplated not appearing on the show. It’s reported that several people on the AEW roster think Punk mentioned Page because he felt his rival went into business for himself leading into their Double or Nothing match on May 29. In a promo on the May 25 episode of AEW Dynamite, Page alluded to Punk’s issues with Colt Cabana.

The report also states that he’s shared that he is unhappy with the situation to the point that sources that know of the problem believe he might leave the company. via Fightful:

“…Sources familiar with the situation claim that CM Punk has often verbally expressed his displeasure, including recently so blatantly that they thought he might end up quitting the company. Those close to him said that he might have almost decided to stay home instead of coming to the August 17 Dynamite, but don’t think he would have quit. We haven’t been given any indication that he plans on leaving AEW, but one veteran said they have heard of “threats being levied”

– Fightful Select

Furious

According to Bryan Alvarez on Wrestling Observer Live, some people in AEW were furious at CM Punk, but the locker room was split and some siding with Punk over Adam Page.

There were a few people furious at CM Punk backstage, because Hangman is a well-liked guy. So they’re mad at Punk. Also, you have people who are on Punk’s side who say Hangman started this, so they’re mad that you’re mad at CM Punk. I know this is pro wrestling, and we have the MJF deal, but I was told that it’s not. It was started when Hangman was unprofessional, and CM Punk followed that up by making Hangman look like a fool.

CM Punk Match Against Jon Moxley For Next Week Was Reportedly a Late Decision

In another twist from last night, fans were surprised that AEW decided to have the anticipated Punk vs. Moxley title match on the Aug. 24 episode of AEW Dynamite. AEW’s decision seems odd, especially with their Pay Per View All Out taking place on Sep. 4.

The report added that AEW’s decision to have the match on Aug. 24 was late. However, it’s unclear how late the company decided to make the match official for AEW Dynamite.

While it is a surprise, wrestling fans can rejoice at seeing the unification match without watching it on Pay Per View.

Conclusion on this topic

It’s worth noting that Punk nor Page has spoken about issues between the two. The report also acknowledges the claim that he is upset with Page over their program is based on AEW’s roster speculation.

However, Punk’s actions and Fightful Select’s sources could make wrestling fans wonder how AEW will resolve this issue. Punk signed to AEW last year and is likely in a multi-year deal. Punk hasn’t shown that he has considered quitting or didn’t want to appear on the recent AEW Dynamite episode.

When CM Punk returned from injury on last week’s AEW Dynamite, fans were excited for him to get back in the ring.

On this week’s Dynamite, Punk confirmed that his first match back will be at AEW All Out 2022, where he and Jon Moxley will unify the Lineal and Interim World Championships.

Later in the show, however, Moxley convinced Punk that the match should happen on next week’s episode of Dynamite instead.

With All Out’s scheduled main event now happening next week instead, there are several possible routes AEW could go.

AEW World Champion CM Punk Vs. Interim AEW World Champion Jon Moxley

It was confirmed on Dynamite that Punk and Moxley will face off to unify the two World Championships next week, but that doesn’t mean it will happen.

There’s no shortage of title matches ending in a no-contest, which usually means that the champion retains their title.

In this instance, both champions would retain, presumably after a mass brawl, featuring the Blackpool Combat Club and the Jericho Appreciation Society disrupting the match.

Not only does AEW get the expected viewership boost on next week’s Dynamite, but they still get the unification match at All Out, possibly in some sort of stipulation to prevent interference.

AEW Undisputed World Champion CM Punk Vs. ‘Hangman’ Adam Page

If AEW commits to crowning an Undisputed World Champion next week, odds are the winner will be CM Punk.

Moxley only became champion due to Punk’s injury, and it’s unlikely that Tony Khan, after paying a fortune to bring Punk in, wants his title reign to end on such a whimper.

On this week’s Dynamite, Punk addressed Moxley, but he also had some serious beef with ‘Hangman’ Adam Page.

Punk challenged Page to a title match, aware that the Hangman wasn’t in the building, and branded the former Champion a “coward.”

While it’s been reported that Punk’s comment wasn’t part of the plan, it appears that AEW is setting up a rematch between Page and the AEW World Champion.

A rematch may have been the plan all along, but delayed due to Punk’s injury, and the two could face off at All Out.

AEW Undisputed World Champion CM Punk Vs. MJF

The same night that CM Punk got injured, MJF cut a scathing promo on AEW, culminating in begging Tony Khan to fire him.

MJF’s promo, which was based on some real-life grievances, is that Khan spends too much money and attention on ex-WWE Superstars.

CM Punk is a prime example of that, as Khan has paid a ton to bring in the former WWE Champion, who has been pushed as AEW’s top star since joining the company last year.

MJF hasn’t been seen since his June 1, promo, but it may finally be time to bring him back.

The Salt of the Earth is also the only man in AEW to hold a victory over Punk, defeating the AEW World Champion on the February 2, 2022, Dynamite.

A post-match attack on Punk could be the perfect way to bring MJF back, setting up a very personal war for All Out.

CM Punk Calling Out Hangman Page on AEW Dynamite Was Not Planned

CM Punk opened this week’s AEW Dynamite with a promo, the first time has spoken on AEW programming since returning last week. He first started talking about his upcoming title match with Jon Moxley before shifting his focus to “Hangman” Adam Page.

He noted he had some “not so important” things to get out of the way and called out Page. He said Page could have a rematch right then and there, but Page didn’t come out. Punk called him a coward for not showing up and how everyone wants to be champion until they have to do champion things. 

Things Got Real

Dave Meltzer stated on today’s Wrestling Observer Radio that nobody knew it would happen as Page wasn’t scheduled for the segment, indicating some heat between Punk and Page. 

“If you’re wondering about the CM Punk thing at the start of the show with Adam Page… that was weird for everyone. As in, nobody knew he was going to do that. If you remember months ago when they were feuding, and I said there was a lot of reality to it – well, there’s a lot of reality to it.”

Meltzer continued, “So, I don’t know what the deal was, and nobody else does either, but… Punk was supposed to go out there and talk about Moxley and build the match, and he did… after he talked about Adam Page. They may build something from it down the line, but it’s not scheduled for this pay-per-view, and nobody knew he was gonna do it.”

Punk is slated to defend his AEW World Championship against Moxley next Wednesday on Dynamite. This was a surprise as many fans expected it to take place at All Out. 

H/T to WrestleTalk for the transcription

On last week’s AEW Dynamite, CM Punk returned to TV after over two months away due to a foot injury.

This week, Punk said that he and Jon Moxley would unify the AEW World Championships at All Out, but Moxley later convinced Punk to have the match next week.

This will mark Punk’s first match since the June 1, edition of AEW Dynamite when he and FTR defeated the Gunn Club and Max Caster

Kingston Hits Back

During his promo on this week’s Dynamite, Punk made reference to WWE and also took aim at some of the AEW wrestlers.

One name Punk mentioned was Eddie Kingston, calling him the third best Eddie he’s stepped in the ring with and the second best Kingston.

The first comment likely is in reference to Eddie Guerrero, who Punk faced early in his career, but it’s unclear who the other Eddie is.

The second best Kingston line is presumably a nod to Kofi Kingston, who Punk teamed with in WWE in 2008.

Responding on Twitter, Eddie Kingston didn’t hold back.

https://twitter.com/MadKing1981/status/1560060197481185282

Punk and Kingston

Kingston’s comment stems from reported real-life beef that the ‘Mad King’ has with the reigning AEW World Champion.

Last November, it was reported that Kingston despised Punk from their days in IWA-Mid South, where Punk called Kingston and his tag-team partner at the time Blackjack Marciano, fat, lazy, and unsafe.

Marciano had injured Delirious during a match, and an irate Punk “buried them nonstop” according to a source who was with the promotion at the time.

Eddie Kingston Says Match Against CM Punk The Most Personal Of His Career

AEW has shockingly announced a huge championship match for next week’s episode of Dynamite from Wolstein Center in Cleveland, OH.

They have confirmed that the AEW world champion CM Punk will be facing the Interim world champion Jon Moxley to unify the titles next week.

Punk won the AEW title from Hangman Page at Double or Nothing in May. Though he had to take time off from the company shortly after due to a broken foot.

The promotion crowned Mox the interim world champion in the meantime, and the hardcore star has been defending the championship since Forbidden Door.

Punk vs. Moxley

Punk made his surprise return on last week’s Dynamite and saved Moxley from a beatdown. The two then had a confrontation and many believed they will meet at the upcoming All Out PPV.

This week’s episode of the show, however, saw a heated verbal exchange between the two stars. This was followed by a brawl that had to be broken up by security. The championship match was announced for next week after this.

This surprise announcement has left fans puzzled. The All Out PPV is only a few weeks away, and there is now speculation that this storyline could lead to the return of MJF.

The Salt of The Earth hasn’t been seen since his explosive Dynamite promo. Many believed that his return was being held off because of Punk’s injury and fans are now wondering if we can finally see his comeback next week.

• AEW Dynamite Results (8/17/22): Kenny Omega Returns, CM Punk & Jon Moxley, Bryan Danielson vs. Daniel Garcia

Jim Ross believes that CM Punk vs. Jon Moxley for the Undisputed All Elite Wrestling (AEW) World Title will be the promotion’s biggest main event ever.

Ross recently took to his podcast, “Grilling JR,” to offer his thoughts on the potential CM Punk vs. Jon Moxley match to unify their AEW World Titles. Punk recently made his return to AEW TV to confront Moxley, teasing their eventual matchup.

Of course, given Punk’s current injury, there’s no indication as to when that match could finally take place. With that being said, Jim Ross believes when the match finally does go down, it could do historic business for AEW.

“I knew he was in the building. I saw him briefly, earlier in the day, in the trainer’s room, getting some attention. He sure has been missed, there is no doubt about it. The crowd’s reaction would indicate the same. They are ready to see him.

“I still don’t know how healthy the guy is. I asked on air ‘has he been cleared to wrestle?’ Nobody knew. He will be cleared. He’s under good doctor’s care. This process has been ongoing.

“He’s still in the process of healing as far as I’m concerned, until I get word that he’s 100%, I’m going to play it by ear. He’s a tough guy. Everyone wants to see him and Moxley beat the shit out of each other.

“You can count your bottom dollar that’s what they’re going to do. They both have that pride. It’s going to be, arguably, the biggest main event we’ve ever had considering all the ramifications going in and injuries and all these things.

“I’m excited about calling that match. I think it’s going to be fun as hell.” 

Punk won the AEW World Title at AEW Double Or Nothing earlier this year against Hangman Page. However, in June it was announced that Punk suffered a foot injury that needs surgery to repair.

In his absence, Moxley has been crowned as the interim World Champion. He’ll be ready to welcome Punk back once the former WWE Champion is ready to get back inside the squared circle.

AEW is starting to have some wrestlers return from injury, which has impacted the promotion over the last few months. 

Adam Cole, CM Punk, and Bryan Danielson were all on the shelf with injuries throughout the summer, while Kenny Omega has been gone since last November. Cole is expected to return to in-ring action soon. AEW made an Interim Championship while the actual champion (Punk) recovered from foot surgery.

Danielson and Punk have since returned as Danielson came back a few weeks ago and lost to Daniel Garcia, while Punk was back this week when he confronted Jon Moxley to seemingly set up their match at All Out on September 4th. 

PWinsider.com reports that while Punk appeared to be ready to fight on Wednesday night, he is still rehabbing his repaired foot and was reportedly still in pain as of a few weeks ago. Punk will likely not wrestle before All Out.

Regarding Omega, he is still likely the mystery partner of The Young Bucks in the upcoming AEW Trios Titles tournament to crown the inaugural champions. 

The Young Bucks and their mystery partner are set to face Dragon Lee, Andrade El Idolo & Rush on Wednesday’s Dynamite.