'Real World Champion' CM Punk has made his return to MMA commentary in his first on-screen appearance anywhere since his exit from AEW.

The 'Real World Champion' was released from AEW earlier this month following a week-long investigation into the backstage altercation at AEW All In. Punk's physical confrontation with Jack Perry ended with Punk using a chokehold on the former FTW Champion and left Tony Khan fearing for his life inside Wembley Stadium.

CM Punk has kept relatively quiet since his departure from AEW but recently resurfaced to provide commentary at CFFC 125 from Cage Fury Fighting Championships.

Punk's broadcast partnerJohn Morgan confirmed that Punk is "back," adding that he is "with cause" - a nod to Punk's exit from AEW, with the phrase being used in statements confirming the 'Real World Champion's release. The phrase essentially means that an individual has been fired because of what the company perceives to be the person's own misconduct.

Punk's MMA commentary return aired on the UFC Fightpass streaming service, which is now operated by TKO Group Holdings.

Punk also stated that he's got he’s got time on his hands — for the next 2 months.

Some fans on social media are taking this as a possible reference to a non-compete period. Interestingly, in just over two months, WWE brings Survivor Series to Chicago on Saturday, November 25 at the Allstate Arena.

While Punk has made his return to CFFC this week, there has been growing speculation that his future resides with WWE. That is despite Punk failing to orchestrate a return to WWE last year, and the former AEW star still having heat among the top talent in the company.

Zelina Vega has said that she'd love to see Punk return, while Finn Balor responded to questions about Punk saying that he'd wrestle a broom if the money was right. Drew McIntyre was more coy with his answer, saying it wouldn't be his decision and that Punk is certainly controversial.

Founded in 2006, CFFC would help launch the careers of several fighters from UFC, including Aljamain Sterling, Paul Felder, George Sullivan and Jimmie Rivera among others. Punk's appearance for CFFC marks his first time calling the action for the fighting promotion since CFFC 114 in November 2022.