WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross has gone on record wishing CM Punk never left AEW, calling the veteran a loss for the promotion.
He praised Punk’s ability to generate excitement no matter which side of the aisle he lands on. Ross shared the sentiment during a recent episode of his Grilling JR with Jim Ross podcast.
Ross was asked whether he prefers Punk as a heel or a babyface, and his answer made clear he sees value in either direction. To Ross, the specific alignment matters far less than keeping Punk on television.
I prefer his work with him having an edge,” Ross said.
If that edge is taken to the level where he’s not liked and he’s going to be a heel, then so be it. I don’t have a problem with that. But I like him. I think as long as Punk is featured, then I’m happy. As long as he doesn’t disappear off the face of the wrestling earth, I’m for it.
Jim Ross Considers CM Punk ‘Reliable’
Good Ol’ JR placed Punk in what he described as his “reliable category,” praising his range as a performer.
He’s valuable talent. CM Punk could be a great heel or a great babyface,” Ross said.
I’m a CM Punk fan, and whatever role they decide to put him in, he’s going to succeed because he’s just a real talented dude. I consider him one of my friends, and I wish we still had him in AEW. He made things lively around that place.
Punk is no longer with AEW. He returned to WWE and holds the Undisputed WWE Championship following his title win against Cody Rhodes on Raw in Chicago.
Earlier this year, Ross returned home after more than 30 days in the hospital, and he has continued to weigh in on the state of the business on his podcast. He is also set to undergo brain surgery.
