CM Punk has turned his body into a vivid narrative, and in the latest episode of WWE’s “Tattoo” series titled “The Second City Saint,” he reveals the heartfelt meanings behind his extensive tattoo collection. The nearly 15-minute video showcases how each tattoo symbolizes important relationships, mentors, and values that have influenced his acclaimed wrestling career.
One of Punk’s most intimate tattoos, located behind his left ear, features the number “31” surrounded by four stars. The number represents his sister’s soccer jersey, while the stars symbolize each of his brothers—except for a missing fifth star, which serves as a reminder of a strained relationship with a brother who once embezzled money from a backyard wrestling promotion early in Punk’s career. Punk explained that this tattoo is one of the first to bring family close, even when physically apart.
Several wrestling legends are immortalized on his skin as well. On his left foot, he sports a peacock with a crown, a tribute to Harley Race, who profoundly impacted his career and mindset. Punk shared that Harley was more than just a wrestler—he was a leader and friend, with the peacock representing royalty, strength, and credibility. Similarly, the four aces tattooed on his left arm honor Ace Steel, the trainer who gave Punk his big break, emphasizing Punk’s belief that these symbols aren’t about luck but about respect for those who helped him start.
Another moving tribute is the phrase “No Gimmicks Needed” inked on his left side, in honor of his late friend Chris Candido, who passed in 2005. This phrase perfectly captured Candido’s natural talent and genuine personality, something Punk deeply admires.
His dedication to a straight-edge lifestyle is prominently displayed with the words “Drug-Free” across his knuckles and “Straight Edge” on his abdomen, reflecting his identity and core values. His tattoos also honor beloved companions, including one with the name “Callee” on his left forearm to memorialize his dog.
Punk’s punk rock roots and love for comics are woven into his body art, with an Operation Ivy logo on his left calf paying homage to his favorite punk band, and several Marvel references like Spider-Man showing his comic book fandom. His famous Pepsi logo tattoo, beyond brand loyalty, symbolizes his commitment to authenticity and staying true to his principles, inspired by musician Brian Baker’s similar tattoo.
Interestingly, despite his skepticism about luck, Punk’s “Lucky Arm” features tattoos like rabbit feet, four-leaf clovers, horseshoes, and koi fish, each with its own unique meaning beyond luck. Covering nearly 30 years of experiences, friendships, and growth, his 52 tattoos collectively tell the story of his life and career, from his first tattoo at 17 to his latest.
Punk described tattoos as a way of wearing your mind on your sleeve and expressing who you truly are. As he returns to WWE, his tattoos serve as a reminder of his journey and those who helped shape him into “The Best in the World.” In an industry often criticized for superficiality, CM Punk’s body art stands as a lasting testament to his dedication to his values, relationships, and authenticity.
Fan Take: For WWE fans, CM Punk’s deeply personal tattoo story offers a rare glimpse into the man behind the persona, enriching the connection with one of wrestling’s most iconic figures. This transparency could inspire a new era of storytelling in the sport, where authenticity and personal journeys become as celebrated as in-ring skills.
