CM Punk returned to AEW as the face of Collision, the company’s new Saturday show, which aims to differentiate itself from Dynamite. His return marked his first appearance since All Out in September 2022, and now he is taking a leadership role backstage to help move things along — another contrast from his first stint.
According to Fightful Select (subscription required but recommended), Punk led a talent meeting ahead of the July 8 episode of Collision.
The meeting focused on how Collision can differentiate itself from Dynamite, to the point where many of Dynamite’s usual detractors have taken to liking Collision.
At the Punk-led meeting, they discussed ways Collision could differentiate itself from Dynamite, as well as what works and doesn’t work for Collision, such as match finishes and other shenanigans.
They also highlighted how talent can promote more AEW projects and shows, such as AEW Fight Forever, which released on gaming platforms in June, as well as safety guidelines.
Overall, it seems like a positive discussion. The talent highlighted on Collision can positive steps to amplify AEW’s weekend show, which is still new and fresh despite inconsistent ratings. It is better to point out any potential improvements now than later, so the show can become a steady source of pro wrestling like Dynamite has in recent years.
This bolsters Punk’s status as a leader on Saturday nights as Collision gains momentum. The July 15 episode had a positive reception when FTR and Bullet Club Gold clashed in a Match of the Year candidate, and Punk himself faced off with Ricky Starks in a surprising conclusion to the Owen Hart Foundation Men’s Tournament, so it sounds like Collision is moving in the right direction.
Let’s see what else Collision does to differentiate itself from Dynamite and push the envelope as it celebrates its one-month anniversary.