Dominik Mysterio didn’t hold back his thoughts on CM Punk’s in-ring performance after their match at a WWE live event on December 26, 2023. This marked Punk’s first WWE match since the Royal Rumble in 2014, a significant moment for wrestling fans. Despite the historic nature of the bout, Mysterio seemed unimpressed by Punk’s approach in the ring, taking aim at the wrestling icon’s repertoire of moves—a term that has become a meme in recent weeks.
Speaking on No Contest Wrestling with O’Shea Jackson Jr. and TJ Jefferson, Dominik offered a sharp critique:
I had the great dishonor of welcoming Punk back after ten long years. It was everything I expected it to be—just an old man trying to do his thing. Thinks he’s still got it. He went out there in some plain black underwear. Didn’t even have his gear. It was definitely a sight to see.\"
- Dominik Mysterio
He went on to reflect on their shared history, referencing Punk’s feud with Rey Mysterio and a moment when Punk sang Happy Birthday to Dominik’s sister:
“I’m sure he remembers. He cornered my whole family back when he had that shitty long black hair. Now that I’m my own man, I’d love to get my hands on him again. I’ve seen what he can do—it’s nothing special. I know his moveset.”
- Dominik Mysterio
The term moveset has become a running joke in wrestling circles, spurred on by CM Punk’s recent dig at AEW rival Hangman Page’s use of the word. Punk mocked the term last week, leading to widespread commentary from wrestlers and fans alike. Mysterio’s jab is the latest in the ongoing meme-driven discourse surrounding Punk’s wrestling style.
Punk’s return to WWE has been a hot topic since his surprise appearance at Survivor Series 2023. While his match with Mysterio rekindled nostalgia for some, Dominik’s comments suggest not everyone is convinced of Punk’s current capabilities.
Punk’s next match is set for January 6, 2024, where he will face Seth Rollins during the WWE Raw on Netflix premiere. Fans eagerly await whether Punk can silence his critics or if the chatter about his moveset will persist.
