Phillip Jack Brooks, a multifaceted individual, is better known by his professional wrestling moniker, CM Punk. This American professional wrestler, comic book writer, and former mixed martial artist has made a significant impact in the world of sports entertainment.
Punk's professional wrestling career began on the American independent circuit, primarily with Ring of Honor (ROH),before he signed with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) in 2005. He went on to become a world champion in multiple organizations, winning the WWE Championship twice, the World Heavyweight Championship three times, the ECW Championship once, and the ROH World Championship once.
In WWE, Punk achieved numerous accolades, including becoming the 19th Triple Crown Champion and the fastest man in WWE history to achieve this feat, doing so in 203 days. He was also a one-time World Tag Team Champion, partnering with Kofi Kingston, and a one-time Intercontinental Champion. Furthermore, Punk was the 2011 WWE Superstar of the Year and the first two-time Money in the Bank winner.
At the peak of his career, Punk was widely regarded as the best professional wrestler in the world. Pro Wrestling Illustrated named him Wrestler of the Year in both 2011 and 2012, during which he held the WWE Championship for an impressive 434 days.
Punk's character was that of an outspoken, sharp-tongued, anti-establishment, straight edge iconoclast. He consistently portrayed the straight edge principles, which are also his real-life views, emphasizing different aspects to garner the desired audience reaction, depending on his alignment as a hero or villain.
After becoming disillusioned with WWE, Punk retired from professional wrestling in 2014 and pursued a career in mixed martial arts (MMA),signing with the UFC. He made his debut for All Elite Wrestling (AEW) on August 20, 2021, marking his return to professional wrestling after a seven-year hiatus. On May 29, 2022, Punk won the AEW World title, becoming the first man in history to hold the WWE, AEW, and Ring of Honor World Championships.
