CM Punk returning to AEW from suspension looks to be “doubtful” for the time being

As previously noted, it has been speculated that there could be a buyout of CM Punk’s AEW contract following his backstage altercation with The Elite.

In an update on the situation, Dave Meltzer of F4WOnline.com noted that AEW is in talks with CM Punk about the future but it looks “doubtful” at the moment that he will return from suspension. Meltzer wrote the following…

“Those with close knowledge of the situation said they are in talks with Punk about a buy-out of the remaining years of his contract which tells you that they are not looking to bring him back. The hold-up right now is said to be the non-compete period.”

Meltzer brought up how the non-compete issue could be a sign that WWE has interest in CM Punk if he is no longer under contract to AEW. While CM Punk won’t be able to wrestle for several months due to his torn triceps injury, he could still appear on WWE television right away unless there is a non-compete clause.

Meltzer added that both AEW and CM Punk didn’t comment on nor deny the story and the backstage sentiment among most talent in AEW has been “decidedly anti-Punk.”