Big E’s encounter with CM Punk was perhaps the primary reason for his current prominence in the world of WWE. The 2021 Money in the Bank winner has been associated with WWE for over a decade. He initially started in FCW and remained there until it underwent a rebranding as NXT, where he achieved the esteemed championship title. His introduction to the main roster took place towards the end of 2012, during which he played the role of a villainous enforcer for a certain individual. However, it was in the late 2013s that he truly established himself on the main roster by engaging in a fierce rivalry and shaping his career.
During an interview on the Sarah O’Connell Show, Big E was asked about his most memorable match. The former WWE Champion revealed that he had been unable to discuss this particular match until now, as Punk has recently returned to WWE. Big E recollects that in 2013, he embarked on his solo journey after Ziggler’s departure, which led to him becoming the designated protector of someone else.
At that time, his presence on WWE television was not significant and he rarely made appearances. However, on a fateful Monday, despite not being scheduled for the show, he received an email regarding his involvement in Raw and SmackDown the following week. Trusting his instincts, he made the most of those opportunities, realizing that otherwise he might have been sent back to NXT. Big E admits that he still gets a thrill when reminiscing about that moment.
The match with Punk elevated Big E’s status, providing him with a sense of fulfillment. CM and E simply went out there and showcased their skills, which evidently impressed the former. The New Day member recalls that Lee later informed him that The Best in the World himself had requested the match.
That encounter with CM Punk held great significance for Big E. He considers himself fortunate to have been in the right place at the right time, given the subsequent events that unfolded. A few weeks later, they had another match, only for RybAxel to interfere, accompanied by Paul Heyman.
It was during this moment that Big E transitioned from being a villain to becoming a fan favorite for the first and final time on the main roster. He initiated a rivalry with another individual, ultimately leading to his victory and the acquisition of the Intercontinental Championship, which propelled his career forward. The former WWE Champion acknowledges that this marked a turning point in his career, allowing him to establish his individuality.
From that point onwards, he gained momentum. He was able to demonstrate his worth after facing off against the Best in the World, solidifying his belief that he truly belonged in the industry. It also served as a lifeline for his career, for which he will forever be grateful to Punk. In conclusion, Big E expresses deep gratitude, as he genuinely wonders where his life would be if it weren’t for The Second City’s willingness to support and uplift young talent.
According to the Source firstsportz.com