Jeff Hardy has openly stated his desire to retire CM Punk, reigniting interest in their 2009 rivalry now that Punk has returned to WWE. With WWE and TNA’s current partnership and the Hardy Boyz’ NXT crossover, this long-awaited rematch, ending in Punk’s potential retirement, remains a distinct possibility.
The feud was built on the stark contrast between Hardy’s free-spirited, risk-taking persona and Punk’s straight-edge character. Punk, portraying himself as being better than Hardy, often criticized Hardy’s lifestyle, including his past struggles with substance abuse.
The rivalry revolved around the WWE World Heavyweight Championship on SmackDown during this time period, with both wrestlers going for the title. The feud ended in a “Loser Leaves WWE” Steel Cage match on SmackDown, with Punk emerging victorious, which led to Hardy leaving the company.
In reality, Hardy wanted out as he was dealing with personal demons with addiction and burnout from the travel schedule that comes along with WWE. The feud elevated both wrestlers’ careers, showcasing their abilities as performers and storytellers inside of the squared circle.
While speaking with Alex McCarthy for Mail Sport, CM Punk was recently asked about Hardy’s retirement aspirations. Punk doesn’t see the match happening anytime soon.
“He said he wants to retire me? I’d like to be able to fly, but I don’t think that’s going to happen any time soon,” Punk stated. “I think there’s got to be a lot of bridges crossed. I don’t know how many years I have left. I’m all for giving people second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth chances. There are a lot of experiences I didn’t enjoy so much, we don’t have to get into it, but I just root for people to be free of whatever demons possess them. If he’s coming back here, great, let’s see what happens.”
Punk made a surprise return to WWE at the Survivor Series: WarGames event in November 2023. He has since feuded with the likes of Drew McIntyre and Seth Rollins. He competes in the Elimination Chamber match on March 1st, with the winner challenging Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes for the title at WrestleMania 41.
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