Jim Ross, the legendary wrestling commentator, has expressed his fondness for CM Punk, even going as far as to wish the WWE star was still in All Elite Wrestling (AEW). In a recent episode of his Grilling JR podcast, Ross shared his personal perspective on Punk's career and his impact on the wrestling world.
Ross, a WWE Hall of Famer, praised Punk's skills and versatility, describing him as a "valuable talent" who can excel in both face and heel roles. He believes Punk's presence adds excitement and liveliness to any promotion he's involved in. When discussing Punk's potential future, Ross mentioned his preference for Punk's more edgy and controversial persona, suggesting that such a character could be a hit with fans.
The commentator's comments come as no surprise, given his history with Punk. Ross has previously expressed his admiration for Punk's in-ring abilities and his ability to connect with audiences. He even went as far as to call Punk a "friend," indicating a personal connection beyond just professional admiration.
AEW fans might be disappointed to hear Ross's sentiments, as Punk's time in the promotion was relatively short-lived. He joined AEW in 2021, winning the world championship twice, but his final days in the company were marked by controversy and tension with other top stars. Despite this, Ross's opinion highlights the impact Punk has had on the industry and the lasting impression he has left on both AEW and WWE.
What's particularly interesting about Ross's comments is the contrast between his praise for Punk's work and his preference for a more edgy character. This suggests that Ross values Punk's talent and charisma, regardless of the character he portrays. It also raises the question of whether Punk's future in WWE will be as a face or a heel, and how his character will evolve in the coming years.
In my opinion, Jim Ross's comments about CM Punk showcase his deep understanding of the wrestling business and his appreciation for talent. His personal connection with Punk adds a layer of authenticity to his opinions, making his commentary all the more engaging and insightful. It will be fascinating to see how Punk's character develops in WWE and whether he can live up to Ross's high expectations.