CM Punk Speaks Out in Support of LGBTQ+ Youth at AEW Collision Show

Trevor Decker

Published

June 18, 2023

NOTE: This article is 10 months old and may not include the most recent information.

Pro wrestler CM Punk made a powerful statement at the debut show of AEW Collision, aired on TNT, (June 17) using his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ youth. The event took place at the United Center in Punk’s hometown, Chicago. Following the main event, Punk and the tag team FTR invited a fan into the ring who was holding a sign that read “Support LGBTQ+ Kids”. This heartfelt moment, however, occurred off-air, after the broadcast had concluded.

Punk began by referencing a recent Instagram story he posted, which featured an ice cream bar whose proceeds go towards supporting trans youth. Despite facing backlash on social media for the post, with one anonymous user questioning his support for the cause, Punk chose not to engage with the negativity.

Instead, he took the opportunity in front of the live audience to explain why he supports trans kids and the LGBTQ+ community at large. Drawing from his own experiences of feeling out of place while growing up, he acknowledged that while he could change aspects like his clothes, hairstyle, or music preferences, it’s a different struggle for someone who is gay, lesbian, or especially trans, feeling trapped in a body that doesn’t feel like their own.

Punk passionately stated, “The reason I support trans kids, trans-grown-ups, gays, and lesbians is because I know when I was growing up, I didn’t fit in anywhere. That it was because of the clothes I wore, what my hair looked like, and the music I listened to. Those are all things I can rectify. I can comb my hair, I can listen to jazz, I don’t know what. But to be somebody who’s gay, lesbian, and especially trans, I don’t know what it feels like to be trapped in a body that I don’t feel I belong in. That is why I support that.”

He urged everyone to support trans kids and gay and lesbian rights, emphasizing the importance of everyone being true to themselves.

Punk’s heartfelt message resonated with many and serves as a reminder of the importance of using one’s platform to stand up for those who may not have a voice. In a time when the LGBTQ+ community, especially the youth, face numerous challenges, it is encouraging to see influential figures like CM Punk showing their unwavering support.