5 Reasons why CM Punk's AEW debut was the greatest pro wrestling return of all time

#3 CM Punk's return happened in Chicago

Is it Wednesday yet? pic.twitter.com/TwU03pTHjb

— TNT Punk (@tntdrama) August 21, 2021

There might not be any other wrestler more synonymous with their hometown than CM Punk. Chicago is his hometown and has been the sight of so many of his iconic matches. From his final match before signing with WWE to his biggest match at Money In The Bank 2011, Chicago has seen the most critical moments of Punk's wrestling career.

When reports first broke that CM Punk was in talks for a pro wrestling return, AEW didn't answer them directly. However, they immediately announced the second episode of AEW Rampage would take place in Chicago's United Center as a special called "The First Dance". Running Chicago just two weeks before the All Out pay-per-view was strange and pointed to something huge going down.

Do not miss @CMPunk’s return to the ring and #AEW debut against @DarbyAllin (w/ @Sting) when #AEW is LIVE on Pay Per View for #AEWAllOut - Sunday, September 5, 2021 from the @NOW_Arena in Chicago.Available on all major providers, @BleacherReport, and @FiteTV (Internationally) pic.twitter.com/PaieFgOkix

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) August 21, 2021

In front of the largest crowd in AEW history, the fans knew what to expect. All Elite Wrestling never outright confirmed CM Punk's arrival, but they did tease it several ways, including Darby Allin calling out "The Best In The World." It created a beautiful situation where AEW sold out the United Center and built anticipation, but they got a surprise pop.

CM Punk's return to pro wrestling had to happen in Chicago. These were his fans and wanted him to come back to the industry more than any other. He loved professional wrestling just as much as they did. Chicago proved once again with their incredible reaction to Punk that they are one of the best crowds in wrestling history. It was truly magical to behold.