Week 8 - Pop: CM Punk Returns To Wrestling – AEW Rampage: The First Dance (2021)

Huge modern day pop — Hometown return for wrestling’s second city saint.

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Pop: CM Punk Returns To Wrestling – AEW Rampage: The First Dance (2021)

Context

After 7 years away from pro wrestling, CM Punk returned by debuting for AEW on Rampage: The First Dance. The Chicago crowd were already chanting for Punk when his Cult of Personality music hit at the beginning of the show. CM Punk’s hometown crowd erupted into a pop full of elation, emotion and sheer volume when they heard his theme. It has to be heard to be believed. Punk came out and fell to his knees to take it all in before jumping into the crowd. As JR said on commentary, “this is an amazing moment we are all experiencing”. One of the most energetic and powerful return pops of all time.

Did You Know?

AEW sold out the United Centre in Chicago based on a rumour that CM Punk would be debuting on the night. It wasn’t officially confirmed by the company beforehand.

Why You Should Watch

One of the must see modern day pops. It was a huge moment for AEW that legitimised the company over night. The huge pop from the Chicago crowd when Cult of Personality hit was a build up of anticipation caused by Punks seven year absence from wrestling. It helped further solidify his place as one of pro wrestlings top draws.

Where Can You See It?

At time of writing AEW has the match on their official YouTube channel (AEW). You can find it here.

Or watch the full match below, courtesy of AEW’s YouTube channel.

Let’s Talk

Where does this rank in terms of all-time return pops? Is it one of the best for you?

Coming Next Week:

Austin vs. Bret – The Double Turn at Wrestlemania

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