WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray (Bubba Ray Dudley) recently shared his expert thoughts on a potential high-profile feud between CM Punk and LA Knight during an in-depth segment on Busted Open Radio. With both superstars enjoying substantial fan support, Ray emphasized the importance of careful booking to maximize the storyline’s impact and protect the momentum of both talents.

In the latest episode of Busted Open Radio, Bully Ray expressed his eagerness to see CM Punk and LA Knight face off but cautioned WWE to strategically position the storyline to benefit both superstars. “I’d like to see LA Knight and CM Punk, but I just think they need to be careful because Punk is considerably better than Knight,” Ray explained. He stressed that WWE should craft the feud so that Knight can gain more respect and popularity with the fans rather than being overshadowed by Punk’s superior skills and star power[1][2].

Bully Ray outlined a nuanced approach to booking the rivalry, suggesting it could start with a surprising moment, particularly on the microphone, to create fan buzz and build tension. “Put Punk in a situation where, wow, Punk didn’t even expect that. Something on the microphone,” he said, hinting at the importance of their promos as anticipated highlights of the feud. Given both wrestlers’ strengths on the mic—especially Punk’s legendary promo skills—Ray acknowledged the challenge ahead for Knight to hold his ground: “I think Punk would guzzle LA Knight on the microphone.” Nevertheless, this dynamic, according to Ray, could help elevate Knight’s profile if handled properly[1][3].

An intriguing twist Bully Ray proposed was the potential of aligning Punk and Knight as allies, rather than immediate enemies, in the short term. “Now, LA Knight is loved, CM Punk is loved. So I’d love to see LA Knight and CM Punk on the same side. I think that would do a world of good for LA Knight, getting the rub from Punk,” Ray added. This alliance could serve as a platform to boost Knight’s credibility among WWE fans by associating him with one of the company’s most iconic stars. According to sources close to WWE, this kind of storyline could also set the stage for a future rivalry, building anticipation organically[2][4].

The roots of this discussion stem from recent interactions seen on WWE RAW, where CM Punk inadvertently cost LA Knight a shot at a world title, sparking speculation about a brewing feud. According to Bully Ray, storyline details such as Punk intervening to save Knight from a brutal Seth Rollins curb stomp—and in doing so altering match outcomes—could set up complex motivations for both characters, making their eventual clash more compelling[3].

Industry insiders, including Fightful and Wrestling Inc., confirm that WWE is evaluating various creative directions for both superstars, balancing Knight’s rapid rise with Punk’s established superstar status. The key tension revolves around ensuring LA Knight’s upward trajectory continues without being dwarfed by Punk’s popularity, a sentiment echoed by Bully Ray’s cautious optimism[1][3].

Busted Open podcast listeners can hear the full discussion, where Bully Ray breaks down not only this potential feud but also other WWE storylines post-SummerSlam. Ray’s veteran perspective sheds light on the delicate art of booking major rivalries in today’s wrestling landscape, emphasizing the blend of character development, fan psychology, and in-ring storytelling needed to succeed[5].

In summary, Bully Ray advocates for a carefully crafted CM Punk vs. LA Knight storyline that leverages both superstars’ popularity and mic talents, while ensuring LA Knight’s star continues to rise. Whether WWE opts for a direct rivalry or a partnership first, the Hall of Famer’s insights highlight the importance of strategic booking to produce a memorable feud that resonates with fans.

Key Points from Bully Ray on CM Punk vs. LA Knight Booking:

• Punk’s skill level and fan recognition are higher, so care must be taken to avoid overshadowing Knight.
• A surprise twist or moment on the microphone could kickstart the feud effectively.
• A potential alliance before a rivalry could give Knight a valuable rub and boost his standing.
• The feud could build naturally from recent events on WWE RAW, including Punk’s interference in Knight’s title opportunity.
• Bully Ray foresees intense promo battles but believes Punk would dominate verbally unless the story is balanced.

As WWE continues to shape this storyline, fans can expect a captivating mix of promos, twists, and in-ring action if WWE heeds Bully Ray’s advice and positions LA Knight and CM Punk in a way that benefits both performers and drives excitement.

Sources: Busted Open Radio podcast, WWE.com recaps, Fightful reports, PWMania, Wrestling Inc.