Wrestling fans witnessed something special on WWE Raw’s June 2 episode – not just a Money in the Bank qualifying match, but the end of a two-decade drought between two industry legends. CM Punk and AJ Styles finally stepped into the ring together again, and despite coming up short, Punk’s post-match response shows why respect still matters in professional wrestling.
The Long-Awaited Collision Finally Happens
The triple threat Money in the Bank qualifier pitted three generations of talent against each other. CM Punk, AJ Styles, and El Grande Americano each brought their own motivation to secure that coveted ladder match spot.
However, outside interference changed everything. Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker’s involvement allowed El Grande Americano to capitalize, pinning The Phenomenal One for the victory. While disappointment surely stung for both Punk and Styles, the real story emerged after the cameras stopped rolling.
A Champion’s Mindset: Punk’s Classy Instagram Response
Rather than dwelling on the loss, CM Punk took to his Instagram Story with a message that reminded everyone why he’s considered one of wrestling’s most respected voices. His words carried the weight of genuine admiration:
“AJ Styles, I’ve got a lot on my plate right now but I’ll always make room for you. Thank you for the boot print on my nose. Let’s not wait 21 years for the next time. You’re a legend.”
That “boot print on my nose” reference perfectly captures wrestling’s unique blend of respect and rivalry. Even in defeat, Punk acknowledged the physical punishment while expressing hope for future encounters.
Breaking Down the 21-Year Gap
The significance of this match extends far beyond one night’s entertainment. Punk and Styles last faced off at IWC A Call to Arms 2 back in December 2004 – a time when both wrestlers were climbing the independent scene ladder.
While they shared the ring during the 2025 Royal Rumble’s 30-man chaos, that multi-competitor environment doesn’t compare to a focused, competitive match. Monday night marked their first true one-on-one style encounter since the Bush administration.
Consider how much both men accomplished during that gap: Punk’s legendary WWE championship runs, his UFC adventures, and his AEW chapter. Meanwhile, Styles conquered TNA, New Japan, and eventually WWE itself. Their paths diverged dramatically before converging again under WWE’s bright lights.
Money in the Bank Ladder Match Takes Shape
El Grande Americano’s victory secured him a spot alongside an impressive lineup. The Money in the Bank ladder match on June 7 now features Solo Sikoa, LA Knight, Penta, Seth Rollins, and Andrade joining the newest qualifier.
Each competitor brings their own storyline and motivation to climb that ladder. The briefcase represents opportunity, leverage, and potentially championship gold for whoever survives the inevitable carnage.
What This Moment Reveals About Wrestling’s Evolution
Punk’s Instagram response represents something wrestling sometimes loses in its pursuit of entertainment – genuine respect between competitors. In an era of manufactured heat and social media warfare, seeing two legends acknowledge each other’s contributions feels refreshing.
The wrestling business has evolved dramatically since 2004, but moments like these prove that core values still matter. Punk didn’t need to post anything, but his decision to publicly honor Styles speaks volumes about both men’s character.
As we look ahead to future WWE programming, one question lingers: will we really have to wait another 21 years for these two legends to lock up again, or has Monday night’s encounter planted seeds for something bigger down the road?
