Paul Heyman blown away by success of this version of CM Punk in WWE: ‘Should not work’

CM Punk is finally learning where the person Phil Brooks and famous pro wrestling character begin and end — creating a character even more compelling than his younger self.

That’s what longtime friend and former on-screen manager Paul Heyman has seen since Punk returned to WWE in November 2023 after a decade away from the company and a seven-year absence from pro wrestling.

“I think Phil Brooks’ approach behind the scenes is far more mature and calculated,” Heyman said in a phone interview. “ I can say with great certainty, he has a far greater grasp of the persona of CM Punk than he had years ago. Because, much like anyone else caught up in the mix, and I’m certain...
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