Jim Ross Isn’t Surprised CM Punk Took WWE Backstage Gig, Confirms He Turned Down Role

Jim Ross discusses CM Punk joining WWE Backstage.

CM Punk shocked the wrestling world at the end of the Nov. 12 episode of WWE Backstage when he made a surprise appearance. It was announced shortly after his appearance that Punk had joined WWE Backstage as a special contributor and analyst. Punk is set to appear on Tuesday’s episode of the program.

While many were surprised, AEW announcer Jim Ross wasn’t among them.

“[I wasn’t] big-time surprised,” Ross told Comic Book. “I thought [they’d get him when] they got the pay in line with what he’s looking for to work part-time. The other thing is that he doesn’t have to [WWE TV]. That’s my understanding, he won’t be going back to the WWE community at TV [tapings]. He’ll be going to LA, very different deal. I was offered that opportunity. Not his opportunity, I was offered an opportunity to be on a show with Renee [Young], but I’d already had already committed to Tony Khan and AEW. I’m not big on breaking my commitments or breaking my word…”

It was reported in October that Ross had turned down a role on WWE Backstage. The show is produced by Fox and not WWE.

“I’m glad to see him going back on TV. He’s got a lot to offer. He’s creative, he’s smart, he’s a great polarizing performer. He’s a great talent, one of the best talents I’ve ever been around. Would I have wanted him to work for us? Of course I would. We would love that too. But it wasn’t in the cards right now and it may never be in the cards. For established people like that, established big time programs, that need to be a part of that landscape. And Phil Brooks, AKA CM Punk, need to be apart of progressing landscape in some shape, form or fashion. He made a lot of money, he’s smart, he saved it, he’s not under financial duress, so he should do things that he has fun doing,” he said.

Punk had not been seen on WWE television since 2014 when he walked out on the company following the Royal Rumble. It is unknown if Punk will return to the ring. WWE Backstage co-host Booker T recently weighed in on Punk potentially returning to the ring. You can view his comments by clicking here.