5 AEW stars who could have benefited from CM Punk's first loss more than MJF

2. Eddie Kingston

On the lead-up to AEW Full Gear in 2021, Eddie Kingston and CM Punk were embroiled in a heated feud. The two engaged in several explosive in-ring promos and even a parking lot brawl. Fans were primed to see Eddie take his frustrations out on the Second City Saint.

Unfortunately for the Mad King, he lost to Punk in a grueling match at the PPV. And while the bout went on to garner acclaim from fans and critics alike, the feud was instantly over. Kingston at this point was arguably more over with the crowd than Punk, and would have benefited from a win much more.

The 40-year-old star hasn't had a more memorable feud in AEW, and would have gained far more recognition for winning.

1. Wardlow

Wardlow has become increasingly more prominent in AEW in recent months. The 34-year-old heavy even held a winning streak before his loss against CM Punk.

While the star's eventual betrayal of MJF has been anticipated for months, defeating the Best in the World would have added much to his menacing status. With a win over one of the most popular performers in the industry, the War Dog might have already tossed MJF to the side to begin his own rise to superstardom.

Wardlow will likely enjoy a massive push soon enough, but a victory over CM Punk could have done a lot to get him off the ground.