CM Punk Fired By AEW Ahead Of All Out Pay-Per-View

All Elite Wrestling has announced that it has terminated its contract with wrestler CM Punk, AKA Phillip Brooks, effective immediately. The decision was made after an internal investigation into a backstage incident that occurred involving Punk at AEW All In London on August 27.

“Phil played an important role within AEW and I thank him for his contributions,” said CEO Tony Khan in a statement where he took responsibility for the termination. “I am making the decision in the best interests of the many amazing people who make AEW possible every week–our talent, staff, venue operators and many others whose efforts are unsung but essential to bringing our fans great shows on television and at arenas and stadiums throughout the world.”

According to AEW’s statement, the decision was made following consultation with the AEW Discipline Committee and external legal counsel, who unanimously recommended that CM Punk should be terminated with cause.

The backstage incident in question was reported to be an altercation with fellow wrestler Jack Perry. Tony Khan also addressed the incident in the opening of Saturday’s AEW Collision, saying “never in [30 years] have I ever felt until last Sunday that my security, my safety, my life was in danger at a wrestling show. I don’t feel anyone should feel that way at work. I don’t think the people I work with should feel that way.”

CM Punk was previously suspended from AEW following the infamous press scrum at All Out 2022, which later reportedly turned into a backstage brawl. While his future with AEW was unclear following the All Out incident, he eventually made his return to AEW in June 2023.

CM Punk started his pro-wrestling career with WWE’s ECW brand in 2006, and remained with WWE until 2014. After a brief stint in the UFC, he eventually returned to wrestling, debuting with AEW in 2021. Punk also has a recurring role as Ricky Rabies in Starz’ pro-wrestling drama Heels.