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CM Punk Shares Candid Thoughts on Wrestlemania 41 Opponents

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Xaiver Aguiar | Last updated Mar 30, 2025 11:45 PM ET

Even nearly 500 days into his second run in the company, it's still surreal to see CM Punk back in a WWE ring. His exodus was like watching if James Gandolfini left The Sopranos. It was easy to empathize with Punk for leaving, but that didn't mean fans didn't desperately want to see the best in the world back in the world's premier wrestling promotion. Punk's return came at an ideal time, with creative heading in a positive direction post-Vince McMahon and getting to work with a loaded roster of premier talent, leading to tantalizing angles. For the first time in his career, the 46-year-old will main-event WrestleMania. Before the historic triple threat match in a few weeks, Punk gave candid analysis about his opponents in the dream bout.

In a recent interview with Rich Eisen, Punk shared his thoughts regarding current foes Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins. "I just don't want those two guys to forget I brought them into this, and at WrestleMania, I get a chance to take them out."

Punk refers to the fact that The Shield, the group that Reigns and Rollins were part of when they first got to the main roster, was supposed to act as Punk's personal security. It's a full-circle moment, as those guys are now on his level. But you can tell deep down he takes pride in his evaluation and in watching Reigns and Rollins flourish.

Although this feud might not be for a title, it's an era-defining clash. Add in the mystery around Paul Heyman's favor from Punk, which may or may not play into the finish, and you have all the makings of a scrap that could steal the show.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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