Multi-time World Champion shares honest initial reaction to CM Punk's WWE return

CM Punk's shocking return to WWE at the 2023 Survivor Series in his hometown, Chicago, sent shockwaves through the wrestling world. His arch-rival, Drew McIntyre, shared his initial thoughts on the unexpected comeback.

In an interview with Mike Johnson of PWInsider, the two-time WWE Champion and one-time World Heavyweight Champion was asked about his initial response to CM Punk's return in November 2023 and whether he anticipated the outcome would be so positive for himself and the audience.

Drew McIntyre expressed his initial annoyance at the 45-year-old star's return to the Stamford-based promotion but ultimately understood the business reasons behind it. While others quickly assumed the storyline direction, he saw an opportunity to tell a compelling story, drawing on their real-life history and professional skills.

"I mean, if I had a chance to really think about it, initially, I was pretty annoyed, but I understand business and I understand why it was done, but, I found it interesting that everybody started going, oh, it's obviously going to be this, or obviously going to be this guy. I was sitting there thinking, there's a lot of real history here, and a lot of real feelings I've got and if I get the opportunity, I know we could tell the most compelling story of all, because no matter my real feelings, I'm still a professional, you know?" [H/T: PWInsider]

The Scottish Warrior also noted that he believes the WWE creative team, led by Triple H, can deliver a truly impactful and believable performance.

"He's (CM Punk) still a professional, and we've been given the platform to show the world what we can truly do creatively, our creative team, obviously led by Triple H, is very much, you go out there and you take this creative as far as you can take it. You make people feel, you make people believe, and it's not so hard to make people believe when you truly feel what's good on screen, inside and out," McIntyre added. [H/T: PWInsider]

CM Punk is set for a massive match against Drew McIntyre at the upcoming WWE PLE

The animosity between the two WWE Superstars began at Royal Rumble 2024 when The Scottish Warrior injured The Voice of the Voiceless. These two rivals have already faced off twice, with McIntyre emerging victorious at SummerSlam and Punk claiming a win at Bash in Berlin.

On this week's episode of the red brand, RAW General Manager Adam Pearce announced that at Bad Blood, The Scottish Warrior and The Second City Saint will clash in a brutal Hell in a Cell match.

It will be exciting to see whether CM Punk and Drew McIntyre will put their rivalry to bed following the WWE premium live event on October 5, 2024.