CM Punk’s WWE return at last year’s Survivor Series has been awarded with Wrestling Republic’s On-Screen Moment of the Year Award for 2023.
CM Punk, who left the company more than ten years ago, made his long-awaited WWE return at last year’s WWE Survivor Series to close out the show in front of a sold out AllState Arena, in his hometown of Chicago, Illinois.
Punk’s return came after months of uncertainty following his termination from AEW, with rumors pointing out multiple destinations or even hinting a potential retirement. However, in the end, he decided to return to WWE and received one of the biggest ovations in recent memories.
Sami Zayn turning on Roman Reigns and Jey Uso pinning ‘The Tribal Chief’ to win the ‘Bloodline Civil War’ were the runners up in this category after a vote conducted by Wrestling Republic’s esteemed voting committee.
The Voting Committee’s Reasonings For The Choice
“CM Punk’s return to WWE in Survivor Series was definitely an iconic moment in multiple aspects,” said Wrestling Republic’s News & Opinion Writer Tomas Gramajo. He then moved on to explain that “Punk’s appearance at Survivor Series got one of the biggest pops I ever saw and became one of the most iconic moments in the history of the sport. Quite simply, a huge reminder that everything can happen in wrestling.”
Wrestling Republic’s Opinion Writer Archie Carter explained he also voted for this moment because “CM Punk returning to WWE was one of those few moments which shocked everyone in the wrestling world, WWE did a great job of keeping his return a secret and they gave us one of the most memorable moments I’ve ever seen in my time watching wrestling.”
In addition, Wrestling Republic’s Head of Opinions Anthony Ricciardi praised the surprise factor in the return, stating that “after almost 10 years away and the way he left AEW, many thought it couldn’t happen but that moment when he came out it reminded you why you were a fan. That unexpected moment, the surprise it had everything.”
What’s Next For CM Punk?
Just weeks after he made his long-awaited return, CM Punk declared for this year’s Royal Rumble match, stating he aims to win it and challenge for a World Title at WrestleMania 40. So, with this in mind, fans could expect to see ‘The Best in the World’ chasing gold and main event spots once again in 2024.
