CM Punk Reacts To His Pipe Bomb Being Named WWE RAW’s Greatest Moment

CM Punk has shared his reaction to WWE naming his 2011 “Pipe Bomb” promo the greatest moment in RAW history. He admitted he never expected the company to rank it No. 1, especially when he was no longer part of WWE.

The “Pipe Bomb” aired on the June 27, 2011, episode of RAW and quickly became one of the most talked-about promos in wrestling. Sitting cross-legged at the top of the entrance ramp, Punk blurred the line between storyline and reality while criticizing WWE, Vince McMahon, and the company’s direction. The segment ended abruptly when his microphone was cut off, making it one of the defining moments of the modern era.

Punk discussed the landmark segment during an appearance on What’s Your Story? with Stephanie McMahon. Looking back on the promo, he recalled working with Vince McMahon before it aired and explained why he was stunned when WWE later placed it at the top of its Top 100 RAW Moments countdown (via F4WOnline).

“When I was out of the business, I was obviously persona non grata, right? I mean, I don’t think the other place existed yet, and you’ll did, think a top 100 moments of RAW or something like that? And you guys put the pipe bomb is No. 1. And I remember, I remember being like I am flabbergasted at that. To be so good, to make that moment what it was, to have him sign off on that, and to make that the number one RAW moment is, to me, it speaks volumes. That’s insane!” stated Punk.

CM Punk said he was especially surprised because of his relationship with WWE after leaving the company. He also credited Vince McMahon for allowing the promo to happen, saying that getting approval for the segment played a major role in what it ultimately became.

Despite its legacy, he hopes someone eventually creates a moment that surpasses it.

“Well, somebody will top it. I hope somebody does. I hope there’s somebody in NXT.”

When asked whether another talent could take that spot, Punk said they are welcome to try. He added that today’s talents face different challenges, noting that many NXT stars are quickly moved to RAW and expected to succeed immediately.

“They can try, but again, that’s just noise, you know? I trust my instincts. I mean, I was in the business, I don’t even know how long before I got signed. And then I was in developmental for a year, and so I had tricks up my sleeve that a lot of people coming in didn’t, that a lot of people from developmental at the time didn’t. So I was able to navigate things a little bit better. But there’s NXT talent that come up, and they get thrown on RAW, and it’s sink or swim, but then they think one little mistake, it’s like the end of the world.”

Punk returned to WWE in November 2023 after nearly a decade away from the company. He is now the Undisputed WWE Champion after defeating Sami Zayn on RAW last week, beginning his eighth world title reign in WWE.