Andrew Zarian has stated during the Mat Men Pro Wrestling podcast that several WWE network partners are “shocked” at the growing rumor that AEW has pulled off a deal deal with former WWE Superstar CM Punk.

It was noted that the executives who were most vocal are not wrestling fans, and thus don't understand the inner workings of the pro wrestling industry or why CM Punk was ever allowed to leave WWE.

While the belief is that it would be very beneficial for AEW to acquire CM Punk, the executives don't believe it will be a problem for WWE.

However, they do feel as though Daniel Bryan possibly signing with AEW as a larger blow due to his involvement in the reality series Total Bellas.

Spoke to someone from one of the networks right after today’s @Matmenpodcast

Here is what this person said:

“WWE is not as concerned about the possible Daniel Bryan and CM Punk signing to AEW as we are…”

, Andrew Zarian (@AndrewZarian) July 29, 2021