Highlights

• Rumors of CM Punk's potential WWE return have gained traction, with sources within WWE expressing confidence in his eagerness to come back if offered a contract.
• The manner in which Punk left WWE and his recent departure from AEW have created trepidation in the WWE locker room, particularly with key figures like Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins who have expressed reservations about him in the past.
• WWE might heavily rely on the opinions of Reigns and Rollins in deciding whether to pursue Punk's return, as their influence and the need for harmony among talent could impact the decision. The upcoming Survivor Series in Punk's hometown of Chicago adds extra excitement and could serve as an ideal place for his return if approved by Reigns and Rollins.

Rumors about CM Punk's potential return to WWE have taken center stage in an otherwise busy week of sports entertainment action. The latest news notes that sources within WWE have reportedly expressed confidence that Punk is eager to make a comeback, and they firmly believe he would sign with WWE if offered a contract.

According to Fightful Select (subscription required), sources in WWE "fully believe" he will sign if WWE makes him an offer. That said, there are a few things that would have to happen first.

RELATED: CM Punk Is In Talks With WWE About A Potential Return

The manner in which Punk left WWE the first time was quite public. His departure from AEW is possibly even more so. As one could imagine, there is trepidation inside the WWE locker room and a few fences that need to be mended. In Punk's case specifically, key figures in WWE, notably Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins, have voiced their reservations about Punk in the past. Always ready to do good business and what's best for WWE, the belief is that they would consider the idea, but neither personally wants him there. As such, Punk would need to find a way to come back on decent terms.

Reigns and Rollins have openly admitted their dislike for Punk. But, being the face of WWE and the measuring stick for much of how the rest of the roster does business, both continually emphasize a willingness to prioritize business over personal feelings if it benefits the audience. Rollins might take more convincing as he once referred to Punk as a "cancer,"; but, if they could make it work, the anticipation for the match could produce huge revenue for WWE.

WWE Might Rely Heavily on Reigns' and Rollins' Opinions Here

No doubt, the influence and standing both Rollins and Reigns have within WWE could affect Punk's potential return. The locker room dynamics and the need for harmony among the talent further complicate Punk's re-entry into WWE. If they believe this can work and give the go-ahead, WWE might be more inclined to try. If the respective world champions won't be happy campers should Punk get hired, it might not be worth the trouble.

With Survivor Series set to take place in Punk's hometown of Chicago, the prospect of his return adds an extra layer of excitement for fans. That show is not terribly far away. WWE might want a thumbs-up from Rollins and Reigns sooner rather than later if that premium live event is pegged as the ideal place to see Punk return.