CM Punk Opens Up on His WWE Retirement Timeline Following John Cena’s Recent Exit

A 47-year old CM Punk reflects on legacy, longevity, and retirement as John Cena’s exit sparks questions about when his own WWE journey ends.

CM Punk Opens Up on His WWE Retirement Timeline Following John Cena’s Recent Exit

CM Punk as the World Heavyweight Champion (Image: WWE)

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It feels like just yesterday that CM Punk burst onto the scene in ECW back in 2006, instantly making a name for himself. Over the next eight years, the Chicago native became one of WWE’s biggest stars, capturing multiple world titles and establishing himself as the face of the company. 

His rebellious persona, highlighted by the infamous 2011 pipebomb promo, cemented his place in wrestling history. Punk’s 434-day WWE Championship reign only added to his mystique. However, creative frustrations eventually led to his shocking walkout in 2014. 

Nearly a decade later, history was made once again when Punk made his triumphant return to WWE at Survivor Series 2023, fittingly in his hometown of Chicago. Since then, he’s enjoyed another incredible run, adding another world title to his resume and delivering memorable matches against the likes of John Cena, Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, and Drew McIntyre.

Even amidst this dream comeback, fans are reminded that Punk recently turned 47: a sign that his time in the ring may eventually wind down. In a new interview with Cinema Blend, Punk opened up about retirement and shared why watching John Cena go out was special.

When I was 15, if you asked me if I’d be wrestling when I was 40, I would tell you ‘No, that’s crazy. 40 is so old.’ I’m 47, and I don’t feel old yet. Terry Funk wrestled for a long time. Ric Flair wrestled for a long time. I mean, there are luchadores that are like in their 70s that are still doing it. I would estimate probably the big 50 is when I should maybe gracefully bow out. Knock on wood, if nothing else horrible happens.

CM Punk via Cinema Blend

Punk also praised Cena for leaving on his own terms, saying he got out at the right time and did so with dignity and grace. For the unversed, the 17-time world champion said goodbye to the ring at Saturday Night’s Main Event in a submission loss to Gunther. 

As the World Heavyweight champion, Punk faces a busy road to WrestleMania. Elimination Chamber, the final PLE stop before WrestleMania 42, takes place in his hometown of Chicago. Last week on Raw, Punk successfully defended his world championship against Bron Breakker. 

Next week, ‘The Second City Saint’ will defend the title once again, this time against Finn Balor on Balor’s home turf in Belfast, Ireland.

CM Punk explains why he didn’t agree to be part of WWE: Unreal Season 2

WWE Unreal, the reality series that pulls back the curtain on the company’s inner workings, has been renewed for a second season and is set to return to Netflix next week. However, fans hoping to hear candid insights from CM Punk will be disappointed, as the World Heavyweight champion chose not to participate in the new season.

CM Punk and WWE Unreal
CM Punk and WWE Unreal (Image: Netflix)

Several top Superstars, including Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch, have reportedly expressed reservations about the all-access format, and Punk is firmly among them. During an appearance on Notsam Wrestling, Punk revealed that he declined interview requests for Season 2 despite encouragement from higher-ups within WWE.

It is the reality of the world I work in. I share the sentiment with a few guys on the roster. I’m not super thrilled about it, but if I don’t want to shoot something I say: Don’t shoot it. If I know there are cameras waiting there, I will walk somewhere else.

CM Punk via Notsam Wrestling

Punk also admitted he isn’t entirely sure whether he appears in the upcoming season at all. While he remains uncomfortable with some aspects of the series, he did acknowledge one positive takeaway. Punk noted that the first season helped showcase a more human side of stars like Charlotte Flair and Rhea Ripley, and, to a lesser extent, himself.

The first season of WWE Unreal premiered on July 29, 2025, with all five episodes released on the same day. Season 2 will follow a similar rollout strategy, debuting on January 20, 2026.

Season 1 chronicled WWE’s creative journey from the Netflix premiere of Monday Night Raw through WrestleMania 41, including the highly discussed heel turn of Cena. Based on the Season 2 trailer, the upcoming episodes will shift focus to WWE’s road to SummerSlam.

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