Backstage News On CM Punk’s Return On AEW Collision, Future Plans

Fightful Select has released some details on the rumored new primetime AEW program, Collision, which is set to be announced soon, along with a major return match for CM Punk. The new Collision show is expected to be announced at the upcoming Warner Bros. Discovery upfronts.

According to multiple sources, Punk is pushing for a marquee match for his AEW return. AEW reportedly has major plans for a huge match tentatively set for Collision. A CM Punk vs. Chris Jericho matchup has been discussed internally, with Punk also pushing for another opponent for his return. Punk and Jericho recently had a meeting to resolve their issues.

As far as the programming changes are concerned, once Collision debuts, Rampage will look more like what the now-defunct WWE Sunday Night Heat used to be. Indie talent will get opportunities on ROH now that AEW is done with Dark and Dark: Elevation. Moreover, AEW programming will be hosted exclusively by Warner Bros. Discovery platforms, which will not include ROH. However, it’s unknown if AEW has a new TV deal in place for their new programming schedule.

AEW Collision airing in primetime for Warner Bros. Discovery will be part of a “new cash infusion” for AEW, alongside an extension to their existing partnership. Sources within Warner Bros. Discovery have reportedly had favorable things to say about the ongoing relationship between Warner Bros. Discovery and AEW ahead of the expected announcement of Collision.

While there have been rumors that the new programming deal between AEW and WBD is being valued at $1 billion, the actual figure has not been confirmed yet. Warner Bros. Discovery sources have suggested that the upcoming announcement is actually for Collision rather than an “all-encompassing” programming deal that includes Dynamite.

AEW currently has several Saturday dates booked for live Collision TV tapings. Going forward, AEW will book a venue for two days in a row to shoot Dynamite and Collision back-to-back on Wednesday and Thursday when necessary. While there have been discussions about AEW using the two shows to keep Punk and The Elite apart, it is likely for the talents to occasionally appear on both programs when the situation or storyline calls for it.

Last, but not least, AEW will not be having a literal brand split as part of the Collision debut. However, the debut of the new show will usher in a “fresh roster approach,” along with some “significant names.” Several AEW talents who have been sidelined will be appearing on Collision, but none of them have been informed of anything concrete just yet.

The rumored debut date for AEW Collision is Saturday, June 17, and the show will emanate from the United Center in Chicago, IL.

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