CM Punk Reflects on His WWE TV Debut 20 Years Ago, Thanks Fans for Their Support

Ahead of WWE SummerSlam, Reigning WWE Undisputed Champion CM Punk shared a post on his Instagram Stories, reflecting on making his WWE TV debut, which took place 20 years ago today. Punk thanked his fans for their support.

Punk dedicated his main event title bout at SummerSlam to his fans. He wrote, “I debuted on WWE TV twenty years ago today. From Philadelphia to Minnesota and everywhere in between. Today is for the fans. Thank you for the support. This is a cool shirt. It means a lot to me. I’m fortunate I get to do this. I enjoy every moment in front of a live audience. It’s why I do house shows. It is a privilege. I wrestle every match like it is my last because I never know when it will be. Enjoy yourself. It’s later than you think…. Love you all. This is the job. This is the responsibility.”

CM Punk is scheduled to defend his title later tonight against former champion Cody Rhodes at WWE SummerSlam 2026: Night 1. The premium live event is being held at the US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

WWE SummerSlam will air live on the ESPN App in the U.S. and on Netflix internationally.