CM Punk Reveals Exactly How Many Years He Has Left In The Ring

CM Punk is currently navigating his 24th year in professional wrestling, a storied career that dates back to 1997. Despite a lengthy hiatus from the industry, Punk has reclaimed his spot as a top-tier talent, currently leading the Raw brand as the World Heavyweight Champion. However, as every wrestler eventually learns, time remains undefeated. In a candid new interview, the “Best in the World” addressed the inevitable end of his in-ring run.

“The Big 50” Is The Target

While speaking with CinemaBlend, Punk was asked directly about how much time he has left as an active competitor. Now 47 years old, he admitted that his perspective on longevity and age has shifted dramatically since his younger days.

“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’s luchadors that are like in their 70s that are still doing it.”

Despite citing legends like Terry Funk and Ric Flair who wrestled well into their golden years, Punk was realistic about his own expiration date. He pinpointed a specific milestone for hanging up his boots, contingent on his health remaining stable.

“Do I want to be doing that? Probably not. I would estimate probably the big 50 is when I should maybe gracefully bow out. Knock on wood, if nothing else horrible happens.”

Exiting With Dignity Like John Cena

Punk also took a moment to praise his former rival, John Cena, for executing a “perfect” retirement plan. Cena, who previously announced a farewell tour to set a definitive end date for his career, provided a blueprint that Punk clearly admires.

“A lot of the times you don’t get a choice. That’s why it was special to watch John retire. To me, it was a perfect retirement. We’re celebrating a guy who isn’t dead and can still walk. I tell people all the time none of us are getting out alive. He got out at the right time. He showed us a way to exit with dignity and grace, and I don’t know if mine will look that way.”

Although he is currently operating at a championship level, Punk acknowledged that his own end is “coming sooner than later.” He affirmed his commitment to performing as long as he can contribute meaningfully to the product.

“I don’t know what mine’s going to look like. I do know it’s coming sooner than later. I’m still having fun operating at a high level, no matter what anybody says, and until I can’t contribute, I still will.”

Hostile Territory Awaits In Belfast

While the retirement clock is ticking, Punk’s immediate focus remains on his World Heavyweight Championship reign. Following a successful defense against Bron Breakker to kick off 2026, the “Second City Saint” is set for a hostile environment next Monday as Raw emanates from Belfast, Northern Ireland. During their confrontation on the January 12 episode, Finn Balor officially challenged Punk, dubbing the upcoming bout “Punk vs. The Prince” and vowing to capture the gold on Irish soil. With the crowd sure to be firmly behind the challenger, this defense marks one of the most volatile tests of Punk’s current run.