CM Punk discussed how his appearance was not reflected on WWE’s extra talent roster.
The Straight Edge Superstar, who is part of WWE’s SDCC 2025 panel, revealed several new action figures, including one depicting his look from the 2003 SmackDown dark match against the Road Warriors.
When asked about that match, the former WWE Champion explained that although he had been “banned” from the extra list just days before, he still showed up for the show. He recounted, “That particular guy wrestled the night before his life on Monday night and was on the ban list. Then I went to SmackDown anyway. The Road Warriors were supposed to have a dark match.”
CM Punk also recalled an incident involving WWE Hall of Famer Sgt. Slaughter, who offered him a match on the show. Though he accepted, the match didn’t go as planned since his partner accidentally knocked out one of their opponents. Punk said, “None of the others were attacked, but the remaining extra talent was lousy, so Slaughter asked me, ‘Did you get the right kid in your gear?’ I replied, ‘Yes.’ He then asked, ‘How do you want to work with the Road Warriors?’ I said yes without adding, ‘Is it no longer banned?’ That’s the fastest turnaround from a ban. I started working with the Road Warriors. I think they just released it on the Vault, so you can watch that match. My tag partner unintentionally knocked Hawk out. The action figure might come with a heart attack accessory because that’s what I felt sitting at the apron watching the match.”
Recently, WWE published footage of this dark match which includes an introduction by CM Punk himself. You can view it below.
Fan Take: This revelation sheds light on CM Punk’s resilience and dedication, showing how he continued to push boundaries despite setbacks. For WWE fans, it’s a rare glimpse into behind-the-scenes moments that shape the sport’s history and the personas that define it.
