In a highly anticipated comeback, CM Punk is set to grace the AEW stage once again, marking his first appearance since the electrifying All Out event last September. The news of Punk’s return was made official as AEW Collision unveiled its debut location on Wednesday.

Confirming the much-awaited development, renowned wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer broke the story. However, it is worth noting that Punk’s return itself was not announced on Wednesday, making it a delightful surprise for fans.

The grand debut of AEW Collision is scheduled for Saturday, June 17th, and it will be hosted at the iconic United Center in Chicago. This holds significant meaning for the hometown hero Punk, who famously made his comeback to the wrestling world in August 2021 after a seven-year hiatus from the industry.

Since the events that unfolded at last year’s AEW All Out, where Punk engaged in a heated altercation with the Young Bucks and Kenny Omega during his post-event press conference, this upcoming appearance on AEW TV will not only mark his return but also serve as the first mention of him in the promotion.

According to Meltzer’s insider information, the final meeting between Punk and AEW head Tony Khan was a success, with “a number of other issues” also resolved. One such agreement includes a mutual understanding that nobody involved will publicly discuss the brawl that occurred after All Out last year.

Another notable development pertains to Ace Steel, which has reportedly been under contract for several weeks now. As part of the arrangement, Steel will be working from home. Steel, a long-standing friend of Punk’s, faced the consequences for his involvement in the aforementioned altercation, resulting in his termination, while Omega and the Bucks were suspended.

The re-entry of Steel into the company is believed to have been a contentious issue that arose last week, leading to Punk’s name and image being temporarily removed from the Collision announcement during the WBD upfront presentation. However, with Punk’s return confirmed and the matters seemingly resolved, anticipation for the upcoming AEW Collision event continues to build.

As per #AEW CEO & GM @TonyKhan’s announcement, the first episode of #AEWCollision will be held at the @UnitedCenter in Chicago, on Saturday, June 17th!

It’s #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS! pic.twitter.com/EoNeiuw1Yr

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) May 25, 2023