[Mr. Nerfect]

Originally Posted by Ol Dirty Dastard Punk's shit in WWE isn't part of this "common denominator" discussion. I'd argue he got along pretty friggin well there to get where he got. I know he was very Punk-esque on his way up and rubbed some people the wrong way, but he had a legit run there and made nice with the right people long enough to carve a legacy. The thing is - and this is what someone like Destor will never understand because he thinks the moment you sign a contract, you're a slave - he eventually got tired of eating shit. So he walked out. People do it every day. For some reason, in wrestling, you're just expected to suck your boss's cock, even if he's the worst human alive. Punk got sick of it, walked out, and the drama ensued. But that doesn't detract from the LENGTHY successful run he had, which would have necessitated him getting along. The AEW run is a different beast. He's run out of fucks to give, and he's got the leverage and power to do what the fuck he wants. On top of that, he clearly thrives on conflict, which should be harnessed in pro wrestling. Tony doesn't know how to do that because he's a Kendall Roy-esque nepo-baby and not an actual leader. And to act like Punk is some common denominator and the Elite aren't is ridiculous. There's been non-stop rumblings of their general shittiness. The difference? They're passive-aggressive twerps (much like their Uncle Dave). Passive aggression doesn't quite make for the most salacious headlines, though. But if you're an aggressive guy like Punk, the passive aggression will PISS YOUR THE FUCK OFF, and you'll start looking for trouble. And that's when the headlines start. I'm not saying Punk is reasonable, but I don't think he's any more unreasonable than some of our favorite pro wrestlers of the past. Hell, I'll cop to him being a total diva (lmfao, do with that what you will), but I'm fine with that.

Excellent post.