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CM Punk is back in the news after things have been quiet.
With the uncharacteristic movement on the Brawl Out Situation on Tuesday, October 18 -- Ace Steel being fired, Elite being referenced and being in commercials, and some overall discussion, CM Punk news also emerged.
Wrestling Observer noted that it looks doubtful CM Punk will be back and that those close to the situation claim AEW are in talks with CM Punk about a potential buyout. A non-compete clause seemed to be the holdup. There have been some other wrestlers who'd asked out of their deals who were told they could sit out with an extended non-compete, but still work indies, but they were in a much different situation.
A contract buyout was mentioned very early in the process based on those close to the situation, but as of the Tuesday following Brawl Out, most around Punk told us that "realistically he can't expect to be back." There were numerous AEW talent who said that they aren't interested in working in a locker room that he's involved in again, unless huge amends are made for how the night made All Elite Wrestling look in general. Since the talent meeting that took place days after All Out, the talent we spoke with didn't expect CM Punk back and numerous operated on the assumption he wouldn't be around again.
