Professional wrestler Matt Hardy analyzed the relationship between CM Punk and All Elite Wrestling on his podcast, ahead of his scheduled promotional appearance in Boston on June 27, 2026.
Hardy shared his insights during an episode of "The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy," addressing rumors regarding Punk's professional status following recent wrestling events.
>>> Oscar Collazo to Face Neider Valdez in Flyweight Bout After Late Replacement
"Once you become such a big star it's pretty hard to burn a bridge in some ways," said Hardy.
He elaborated on the financial dynamics governing major stars within the professional wrestling industry, noting that fan connection often influences organizational decisions.
"If you know you're someone who can make money and sell tickets, and there's people interested in you, and they're emotionally connected to you, usually bridges can be rebuilt," Hardy added.
The discussion turned toward a hypothetical on-screen rivalry involving Punk and The Young Bucks, capitalizing on prior real-life backstage tensions.
"It would've done huge business for AEW and it would have created a great amount of buzz," Hardy said.
According to the transcription by Wrestling Inc., Hardy indicated that such a storyline could have provided significant commercial advantages for the promotion.
"It would have helped elevate the company, in all reality," he said.
Hardy further contrasted Punk's previous influence within AEW against his current operational environment in WWE.
>>> Kyrie Irving Misses 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers Championship Reunion in UK
"He knew he had a hold on Tony Khan, to a degree, that he could kind of get away with what he wanted," Hardy said.
