Introduction
CM Punk remains one of professional wrestling’s most magnetic and controversial figures. From his explosive departure from WWE in 2014 to his high-profile return nearly a decade later, his enduring relationship with AJ Lee, debates surrounding his true height, and his affinity for Hoka running shoes, here’s everything you need to know.
1. When Did CM Punk Leave WWE?
1.1 The WWE Exit in 2014
CM Punk’s final WWE appearance before his hiatus occurred at the 2014 Royal Rumble in January. Not long after that, on January 27, 2014, he walked out backstage before a live episode of Raw in Cleveland following a tense meeting with Vince McMahon, citing creative frustrations and mistreatment.
1.2 Wedding Day Termination
In a dramatic twist, on the same June 13, 2014, when Punk tied the knot with AJ Lee, he also received his termination papers from WWE.
1.3 Reasons Behind the Split
Multiple factors contributed to Punk’s exit—frustration with creative constraints, being denied sponsorship-driven attire, perceived double standards (e.g., Brock Lesnar receiving favorable treatment), and WWE failing to allow medical treatment for a staph infection.
2. Is CM Punk Dating AJ Lee? A Timeline
2.1 On-Screen Sparks Turned Real
The pair met around 2012 during WWE storylines and became a real-life couple by 2013, making their first public appearance at a Chicago Cubs game.
2.2 Marriage & Life Together
They married on June 13, 2014. Despite the coinciding WWE termination drama, Punk focused on his marriage over his career.
2.3 Ongoing Relationship
The couple remain married. Punk has publicly expressed admiration for AJ’s journey and even voiced hope she’d return to wrestling, although as of 2024 she remained retired.
2.4 A Return From AJ
Recently, on September 5, 2025, AJ Lee made a shocking return to WWE during SmackDown, emerging in support of Punk in a heated confrontation with Becky Lynch.
3. How Tall Is CM Punk?
3.1 Official Statistics vs. Reality
WWE lists CM Punk’s height at 6′2″ (188 cm) and weight around 218–222 lbs. However, fans and observers suggest he’s closer to 6′0″, citing comparisons with wrestlers like Daniel Bryan (billed at 5′8″) Reddit:
“Yes, he’s easily 6 ft, and over 200 lbs.”
– A longtime fan account.
Despite what official stats report, the community consensus leans toward the more modest figure.
4. CM Punk & Hoka
4.1 Punk’s Preference for Hoka
CM Punk has publicly endorsed Hoka running shoes—famous for their cushioned, maximalist soles, supportive for long-distance training. While there isn’t much detail on why he chose Hoka, athletes often favor them for comfort, injury prevention, and superior performance on long runs or workouts.
5. CM Punk’s Return to WWE
5.1 The 2023 Comeback
After a decade away, Punk returned to WWE at Survivor Series: WarGames on November 25, 2023. His return was partly facilitated by Vince McMahon stepping away from leadership amid scandal.
5.2 The New CM Punk
Wrestling legend Paul Heyman praised Punk’s matured persona and professional evolution: “his ability to distinguish between his real self and wrestling character has created a more compelling presence”.
6. Summary Table
| Topic | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| WWE Departure | Final WWE appearance: Royal Rumble 2014 → Walkout on Jan 27 → Officially terminated on his wedding day, June 13, 2014 |
| Relationship with AJ Lee | Dating since 2013, married in 2014, still together—AJ returned to WWE in Sept 2025 |
| Height | Billed at 6′2″, but community estimates closer to 6′0″ |
| Hoka | CM Punk uses Hoka running shoes—likely for their comfort and performance benefits |
| Return to WWE | Rediscovered fame with his 2023 comeback; praised for pro growth and charisma |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When exactly did CM Punk leave WWE?
He walked out on January 27, 2014, and was officially terminated on June 13, 2014—his wedding day.
Q2: Is CM Punk still married to AJ Lee?
Yes. They married on June 13, 2014, remained a strong couple, and AJ made her WWE return in September 2025.
Q3: How tall is CM Punk really?
While billed by WWE as 6′2″, most fans and observers estimate his height closer to 6′0″.
Q4: Why does CM Punk wear Hoka shoes?
Although not extensively discussed, Hoka shoes are known for excellent cushioning and support, favored by athletes for long training sessions—likely why Punk chooses them.
Q5: When did CM Punk return to WWE, and how has his comeback been received?
He returned at Survivor Series: WarGames on November 25, 2023, and has since been widely praised for his renewed professionalism, character depth, and contributions to the WWE roster.
Conclusion
CM Punk’s journey remains one of wrestling’s most captivating narratives: a dramatic 2014 exit, a lasting relationship with AJ Lee, public intrigue over his actual height, and an understated brand association with Hoka running shoes. His 2023 WWE return and in-ring resurgence reaffirm his iconic status—one marked by evolution, resilience, and authenticity.
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