Well, folks, it seems like Jack Perry has found himself a kindred spirit in KENTA over in the bustling wrestling rings of NJPW. After a dramatic airing of backstage brouhaha from AEW’s All In—which showcased the much-whispered-about scuffle between Perry and CM Punk—Perry has been steering clear of AEW mats. However, that hasn’t kept him from lacing up his boots over in Japan, where the action is just as heated.
Fast forward to the recent Windy City Riot event in—you guessed it—Chicago, CM Punk’s own backyard. Perry, who wasn’t exactly expecting a hero’s welcome in the Windy City, stepped into the ring amidst jeers only to leave with cheers, proving that a good tussle can turn the tide anytime.
Post-match, Perry bumped into none other than KENTA, a man whose own beef with Punk could fill a Chicago butcher shop. KENTA, who’s still miffed about Punk borrowing his GTS move without so much as a nod in his direction, has had his fair share of words about Punk over the years. The two were once slated for a showdown at the Forbidden Door event, but let’s just say disagreements over the paycheck kept that from happening.
So there they were, Perry and KENTA, two wrestlers united by a common disdain for Punk and perhaps a shared skepticism about Chicago-style pizza (who knows?). They snapped a photo together, their expressions a clear thumbs-down to Punk’s stomping grounds. It’s like they say, a picture is worth a thousand words, but this one might just be worth a thousand boos.
KENTA’s grudge goes back to the days when Punk saw him execute the GTS in Japan and decided to make it his own—a move that still stings for KENTA. Meanwhile, Perry’s recent exploits in NJPW have kept him busy, and with allies like KENTA, it looks like he’s in no rush to dial down the drama.
Whether or not these two will tag team against Punk in the ring remains a storyline in waiting. But for now, they’re content to share their mutual displeasure through photo ops and fighting words. So, grab your popcorn, wrestling fans. This saga is far from over.