CM Punk’s resurgence in WWE has reignited some of the company’s most compelling rivalries, and according to renowned wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer, the true magic lies in how Punk brings out the very best in those he faces inside the ring. Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Meltzer highlighted that Punk’s feuds are fueled by an authentic undercurrent of real-life tension between him and his opponents, which elevates their on-screen battles to something more gripping and emotionally charged[2].
Meltzer emphasized that the intensity seen in Punk’s recent programs with top stars like Drew McIntyre and Seth Rollins is no mere storyline. Instead, it’s partially rooted in genuine dislike, making the animosity believable and raw. “He always brings out the best in his opponents partially because a lot of his opponents truly don’t like him,” Meltzer explained. “It’s believable because it’s actually true. That was the case with McIntyre to a degree and with Rollins probably as big a degree or more. It’s all a work, but there are seeds of reality, and they magnify it very well”[2].
This authenticity was most on display in Punk’s brutal Hell in a Cell clash against McIntyre at WWE Bad Blood 2024. The match, widely praised by fans and critics alike, received a rare five-star rating from Meltzer himself, exemplifying the physical and emotional toll both competitors endured[1][4]. The two bled heavily, with McIntyre needing 16 staples to close a head wound, underscoring the brutal nature of the encounter. It was the culmination of a near year-long feud marked by relentless taunts and personal jabs, amplified by Punk’s earlier triceps injury at the Royal Rumble this year.
Fight Game Media applauded the match as one of WWE’s finest, noting not only the in-ring storytelling but also how both competitors sold the hatred and exhaustion convincingly. McIntyre’s reaction to losing—selling the defeat like a prime Bret Hart—further added to the legitimacy of their rivalry, setting a standard for future WWE storytelling[4]. According to a WWE insider, this kind of authentic emotion is precisely what WWE aims for, as it engages the audience on a deeper level, blurring the line between scripted drama and reality.
Punk’s ongoing feud with Seth Rollins also leverages this personal animosity, with the storyline now intertwining the debut of Punk’s wife, AJ Lee, in WWE. Their mixed tag team match at WrestlePalooza 2025 against Rollins and Becky Lynch adds another dimension, increasing stakes and fan interest. Sources close to WWE revealed that AJ Lee’s first WWE match in over ten years was strategically planned to heighten the emotional investment in this rivalry, cementing Punk’s role as a polarizing force who disrupts the status quo[2].
Beyond the emotional intensity, Punk’s ability to bring out exceptional performances is also evident when examining his career highlights. Meltzer has previously assessed many of Punk’s matches, identifying bouts that were underrated as well as those he considered overhyped. Notably, the classic ROH World Heavyweight Championship match against Samoa Joe was highlighted as underrated with a 4.25-star rating that Meltzer argued deserved higher acclaim because of their legendary chemistry and storytelling[3]. Meanwhile, some WWE encounters, including his bout with The Rock at the 2013 Royal Rumble, received praise for atmosphere but criticism for lackluster in-ring action, reflecting nuanced perspectives on Punk’s match legacy[3].
Adding another layer to Punk’s legacy is his WrestleMania 29 match against The Undertaker. Despite Undertaker’s age limiting his mobility, Punk’s work ethic and heel performance shined, making the bout one of the most memorable in recent WrestleMania history. Observers noted Punk’s perfect role as a persistent and cunning antagonist, doing everything possible to topple the supernatural ‘streak,’ which captivated wrestling audiences worldwide[5].
Industry sources also point out that Punk’s influence extends beyond the ring. As a polarizing figure with strong opinions and undeniable charisma, he challenges other wrestlers to elevate their game, sometimes leading to real backstage friction. According to Fightful, this dynamic has been both a source of creative inspiration and occasional controversy, reflecting the complex nature of his presence in WWE[2].
In conclusion, Dave Meltzer’s insights illuminate why CM Punk’s return has injected new life into WWE’s storytelling fabric. The combination of genuine animosity, high-caliber performances, and layered storytelling transforms Punk’s rivalries into must-watch spectacles that resonate with both casual fans and wrestling purists. As WWE continues to build on these compelling narratives, sources close to the company suggest that Punk’s ability to bring out the best in opponents will remain a cornerstone of their programming strategy moving forward.