"He was just another guy then" - Wrestling veteran surprised by CM Punk's real-life heat with former WWE star

WWE Superstar CM Punk seems to have a new critique in Violent J of the Insane Clown Posse. The faction was a prominent feature of the company during the Attitude Era.

In a recent rant on X/Twitter, Violent J took shots at Punk. He called out the star for not shaking hands with them during his time in TNA. He even taunted The Straightedge Superstar for his dismal performances in the UFC.

During a recent episode of Story Time with Dutch Mantell, the veteran mentioned he had no idea how things soured between the two parties. He pointed out that during their time in TNA, Punk was just another wrestler and hadn't transcended the business as a major star. Mantell also claimed he never had any problems with the faction.

"CM Punk was just, he was just another guy then. I don't know. I have no idea where this comes from. My association with the Clowns, with Violet J and what's the other's name? Something. Nothing. I mean, I enjoyed those guys." He continued, "I don't know why CM Punk, all of a sudden, got on their bad side. I've heard nothing about it until this morning." [From 1:52 - 2:26]

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Drew McIntyre brutally attacked CM Punk

Last week on RAW, Drew McIntyre seemingly quit WWE after being frustrated by Punk's antics at Clash at the Castle: Scotland. What perhaps pushed him over the edge was the implicit approval from Triple H.

This Friday on SmackDown, Punk showed up for a one-off appearance in front of his hometown fans in Chicago. However, the night did not end well for The Best in the World as Drew showed up and brutally attacked the star.

McIntyre bloodied his rival and then left his body on the stage. Punk had to be stretchered out in an ambulance after the attack. Fans are now fully invested in this rivalry and eager to see what comes next.

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If you use the quotes from this article, please credit Story Time with Dutch Mantell and add an H/T to Sportskeeda for the transcript.