CM Punk said his recent appearance at a WWE NXT live event came at his own request, driven by a desire to wrestle more often and stay sharp.
The Undisputed WWE Champion worked the August 15 show at VSU Multipurpose Center in Petersburg, Virginia, teaming with NXT Tag Team Champions Myles Borne and Tavion Heights to defeat the Vanity Project in the main event.
Speaking in a WWE vlog, Punk said he isn’t wrestling enough right now and needs more reps in the ring.
“There is a very selfish motivation to me being here. I want to stay ready. Yes, I’m a champion and wrestle on television, but to me, I don’t wrestle often enough. I need more reps. I think I’m better the more often I wrestle.”
Punk added that the appearances also serve as a way to give back to younger talent, following the lead of veterans who did the same for his generation.
“There is an element to giving back, obviously. I have great respect for this business, and I’m just following in the footsteps of people who came before me. Hopefully, someone watches, learns, and observes from me, and they can pay it forward when they have the opportunity to do so.”
Wrestle Features @WrestleFeatures Follow Punk has stated that he doesn't wrestle enough, and he wants to get more reps in.
What a guy.
(WWE Vlog)
11:39 AM · Aug 26, 2026Punk’s presence had a direct impact on demand for the show. Per the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, 1,261 tickets had been distributed when his appearance was announced. By the day of the event, that number had climbed to 2,135.
Punk thanked the fans and NXT talent after the show. In the vlog, the champion made clear he plans to do it again.
“I had fun. I will be back.”