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CM Punk's TNA Deal That Could Have Changed Wrestling

1/7/2026

25 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Steve Maclin revealed CM Punk nearly signed with TNA in 2022 for their first match.
CM Punk's run in All Elite Wrestling ended in 2023.
Punk returned to WWE.
Punk retained the World Heavyweight Championship against Bron Breakker in a match filled with near-falls and standout moments.
The wrestling community reflects on what could have been had Punk joined TNA, noting the potential impact on the promotion's success.

History

Historical Context

Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) was founded in 2002 by Jeff and Jerry Jarrett as an alternative to WWE, following the closure of WCW. Initially affiliated with the NWA, TNA gained popularity through innovative matches featuring stars like AJ Styles. The promotion's ongoing competition for talent, highlighted by CM Punk's rumored signing in 2022, continues to influence the wrestling industry today.

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Story summary

Steve Maclin revealed CM Punk nearly signed with TNA in 2022 for their first match.
CM Punk's run in All Elite Wrestling ended in 2023.
Punk returned to WWE.
Punk retained the World Heavyweight Championship against Bron Breakker in a match filled with near-falls and standout moments.
The wrestling community reflects on what could have been had Punk joined TNA, noting the potential impact on the promotion's success.

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