The Next CM Punk? The World Champion Sees Himself In This “Skeptical” NXT Star

CM Punk is currently sitting at the top of the WWE mountain as World Heavyweight Champion, but he is keeping a close eye on the future. In a new interview with Complex, Punk discussed the incredible depth of talent currently in the developmental system, calling it an “embarrassment of riches.” However, the veteran also expressed a sense of urgency, noting that he might “run out of road” before he gets the chance to step into the ring with the next generation.

Punk Wants Matches With Hayes, Williams, And Femi

“I want to work with Carmelo [Hayes]. I want to work with Trick [Williams]. I want to work with Oba [Femi],” Punk listed, highlighting three of the brand’s standout performers. He noted that the roster depth today is vastly superior to previous eras. “In the past… you can maybe pick there’s less than five guys… nowadays it’s legit at least a dozen you can look at the whole roster and think like okay this guy could win a Royal Rumble.”

Punk also singled out Lexus King for specific praise, drawing a comparison between King’s current reception and his own early career. “A guy like Lexus King is viewed more like me back in the day where like they look at him and like they’re like, ‘Okay, you know, I don’t know if I get it.’ So, he has to work that much harder,” Punk explained, praising King’s open-mindedness. With Bron Breakker also looming as a threat to his title reign, Punk is positioning himself as the ultimate gatekeeper for WWE’s brightest prospects.

Make sure to follow us on social media by liking us on Facebook at WrestleStarz and subscribing to us on YouTube at WrestleStar YouTube.