CM Punk Was Reportedly Open For WWE Return Earlier This Year, Rumoured For Wrestlemania Match With Kevin Owens
New reports have given us some insight into CM Punk’s possible return to WWE at the 2023 Royal Rumble. There was even talk of a WrestleMania 39 match against Kevin Owens if this comeback were to happen. CM Punk famously left WWE after the 2014 Royal Rumble match and received his termination notice on his wedding day, though Vince McMahon claimed it was purely coincidental. Comments made during an episode of the Art of Wrestling podcast led to a defamation lawsuit against CM Punk and his friend, podcast host Colt Cabana, by WWE physician Dr. Chris Amann. While CM Punk and Cabana won the lawsuit, a dispute over legal fees ultimately ended their long-standing friendship. AEW terminated CM Punk’s contract on September 2 due to a backstage incident involving Jack Perry and Tony Khan. This was the second major incident involving CM Punk in less than a year, with his backstage brawl against the company’s EVPs making headlines the previous year. According to a report from Fightful Select via TJR Wrestling, CM Punk expressed a desire to return to WWE in December and even considered participating in the Royal Rumble earlier this year. However, it’s important to note that these are just rumors, and there has been no confirmation from WWE regarding their interest. The report also mentioned speculation about Kevin Owens possibly eliminating CM Punk at the Royal Rumble, which could have led to an Owens-Punk match at WrestleMania 39, potentially as the main event for Night 1. Kevin Owens did end up headlining Night 1 of WrestleMania 39 with Sami Zayn, where they defeated The Usos to win the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships in a highly emotional match in Los Angeles. So, who holds the power in WWE when it comes to CM Punk’s potential return? Although CM Punk’s departure from WWE in 2014 was less than amicable, he reportedly attempted to reconcile when he was backstage at RAW in Chicago this past April, according to Fightful. With CM Punk likely free to sign with other promotions, a return to WWE is not out of the realm of possibility. However, a comeback for CM Punk at this stage of his career may not be straightforward. He is said to still have significant friction with several top WWE Superstars. Seth Rollins referred to CM Punk as a “cancer” earlier this year due to his actions following All Out 2022. The current WWE World Heavyweight Champion also advised CM Punk to stay away from WWE. After his segment with Jey Uso at WWE Payback 2023, Grayson Waller brought up CM Punk’s release from AEW on Twitter. Reports suggest that Vince McMahon is preoccupied with larger projects and may not personally engage with CM Punk. However, if Triple H expresses interest in working with him again, Nick Khan will decide whether the company should bring him back. Despite all the controversies surrounding him in the past two years, CM Punk remains a popular figure in the wrestling world. With the wrestling scene thriving, there could be some high-profile feuds awaiting him if he were to return to WWE. What are your thoughts on the idea of CM Punk making a WWE comeback after nine years? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments section.
Colt Cabana Apologised To Ryback For Former WWE Star CM Punk
In the world of professional wrestling, controversies are as common a place as body slams and suplexes. One such controversy that left a trail of strained friendships and legal battles involved CM Punk, Colt Cabana, and the outspoken Ryback. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of this contentious episode, focusing on Colt Cabana’s apology to Ryback over CM Punk’s statements in a podcast that spiralled into a lawsuit. The Podcast That Changed Everything CM Punk, the straight-shooting voice of the wrestling world, made waves when he appeared on Colt Cabana’s “Art of Wrestling” podcast. This seemingly candid interview would take a tumultuous turn, as it not only had legal repercussions but also strained the relationship between Punk and Cabana. The podcast featured CM Punk discussing his WWE departure and unleashing a barrage of criticism, including allegations against WWE’s doctor, Chris Amann. These comments would eventually lead to a lawsuit filed by Dr. Amann against both Punk and Cabana. The fallout and legal battle While the lawsuit was eventually won by Punk and Cabana, the ordeal took a toll on their friendship. It’s worth noting that Colt Cabana was merely the host of the podcast, and he found himself entangled in a legal battle not of his making. Ryback, another WWE superstar with a history of friction with CM Punk, recently addressed the situation on a live stream. He didn’t mince words when it came to Punk’s behaviour during and after the podcast interview. Ryback accused Punk of manipulation and revealed that Cabana had reached out to him with an apology. “Colt Cabana saw me at an event, and he came up and apologised to me. He just apologised for what Punk said about me on his podcast and made up the lies. He came up to me and apologised to me that that ever happened.” Ryback’s account sheds light on the aftermath of the podcast, where Punk made critical comments about Ryback’s in-ring style, branding him a “stiff worker” who took years off his career. These remarks not only led to a tarnished reputation but also perpetuated a narrative about Ryback that affected his wrestling career. CM Punk’s Wrestling Future While the dust has mostly settled on the legal battle and strained relationships stemming from the podcast, the pro wrestling world remains curious about CM Punk’s future in the squared circle. Despite his rocky past, CM Punk remains an enigmatic figure whose return to professional wrestling is a topic of perennial interest. As the years go by, there’s a lingering question: if and when CM Punk decides to step back into the wrestling ring, which promotion will be fortunate enough to host his comeback? This question remains unanswered, leaving fans speculating about the potential dream matches and storylines that could unfold. Conclusion The podcast that featured CM Punk on Colt Cabana’s “Art of Wrestling” may have ignited legal battles, ended friendships, and tarnished reputations, but it also serves as a testament to the tumultuous nature of the wrestling industry. Ryback’s revelation about Colt Cabana’s apology sheds light on the behind-the-scenes fallout from Punk’s controversial statements. As the wrestling world keeps an eye on CM Punk’s future endeavours, one can’t help but wonder if he’ll once again step into the squared circle and which promotion will have the privilege of hosting this wrestling enigma. The wrestling universe continues to evolve, and controversies, apologies, and reconciliations are part and parcel of this ever-changing landscape.
Will CM Punk Make His Return At Wrestlemania 40?
The wrestling world is abuzz with speculation and high hopes after the abrupt and unexpected termination of CM Punk from AEW. This shocking development has reignited rumors about a potential return of the controversial wrestler to WWE, perhaps at the grandest stage of them all: WrestleMania 40. The hot topic of discussion on social media is a potential dream match between CM Punk and former WWE Universal Champion Kevin Owens, a clash that fans are demanding Triple H bring to fruition. CM Punk’s AEW tenure came to a dramatic close after a backstage altercation with Jack Perry during the All-In event. AEW’s President Tony Khan took to video messaging at the onset of Saturday’s Collision to announce the decision, citing safety concerns as the reason for Punk’s departure. Given that the Straight Edge Superstar is now a free agent, fans are clamoring for WWE to seize the opportunity and bring back one of its most polarizing figures. Late last year, whispers had already surfaced that CM Punk was considering a WWE comeback, focusing primarily on entering the Royal Rumble. Reports even suggested that Kevin Owens was slated to eliminate Punk, thus setting up a monumental feud that would culminate at WrestleMania 39. Yet, in a twist, Punk recommitted to AEW in June, squashing all hopes of that happening—at least for a while. However, the unexpected end to Punk’s AEW contract has poured gasoline on the embers of speculation. Adding to the intrigue are multiple layers of backstage dynamics, particularly Kevin Owens’ known friendship with The Elite—a faction with whom CM Punk has had past tensions. Whether these personal relationships will facilitate or hinder the dream match remains to be seen. Fans have been voicing their opinions on Twitter, urging WWE executives to act swiftly. They argue that the electricity between CM Punk and Kevin Owens could not only steal the show but also headline WrestleMania 40, possibly bringing in one of the highest pay-per-view buy rates in the company’s history. The stakes would be sky-high, and the promos alone would be worth the price of admission. And let’s not forget, CM Punk’s “Pipe Bomb” and Kevin Owens’ “Prizefighter” personas clashing would provide pure gold in terms of storytelling. While this dream match could be a game-changer for WWE, there are challenges in turning it into reality. The backstage politics, the loyalty of Kevin Owens to his friends in The Elite, and the bridges that may or may not have been burned between CM Punk and WWE all factor in. Additionally, time is ticking as WrestleMania 40 is fast approaching. The logistics of contracts, storylines, and schedules would need to align perfectly for this bout to take place. But if there’s one thing the world of professional wrestling has taught us, it’s that anything is possible. Surprise returns, shocking alliances, and unprecedented match-ups are the lifeblood of this industry.
Everything You Need To Know About CM vs. AEW Controversy, Firing, And Drama
The owner of AEW has been involved in a lot of controversy recently, but let’s not focus on that, let’s talk about CM Punk. CM Punk, who is a big star in AEW, has been using his status to do a lot of crazy publicity stunts that would have gotten someone else fired. You could say he’s like the Evel Knievel of the wrestling world. After an AEW event called Collision, CM Punk went on a rant against Hangman Adam Page, one of the top stars, criticizing his merchandise sales. Later, he texted an apology to Hangman for his outburst. It seems CM Punk had a hand in getting several AEW stars, including Ryan Nemeth, Matt Hardy, and Christopher Daniels, removed from the Collision event. There are reports that Hardy and Daniels’ connection to The Elite, another wrestling group, led to their removal. Ryan Nemeth, on the other hand, was reportedly banned because of a tweet he made in response to Punk’s comments about Hangman Adam Page in an interview with ESPN. This led to a backstage confrontation between Punk and Nemeth. Matt Hardy brought up an old tweet on Sunday, suggesting that karma might be catching up with Punk. The tweet talked about how bad decisions and unfair treatment of others can come back to haunt you. There was also an incident where CM Punk clashed with Jungle Boy Jack Perry backstage over Perry’s desire to use real glass in a wrestling match. All of these issues eventually led to AEW announcing that they were parting ways with CM Punk. They announced on social media, sharing a statement from AEW’s CEO Tony Khan. The decision came after a disciplinary committee looked into the situation and recommended Punk’s termination. CM Punk, whose real name is Phil Brooks, had a storied career in both WWE and AEW. After leaving WWE, he joined AEW in 2021, but his time there was marked by controversy, including physical altercations with other wrestlers like Matt Jackson, Nick Jackson, and Kenny Omega. He also trolled AEW star Adam Page. In addition to his wrestling career, CM Punk briefly ventured into the world of UFC, where he fought twice after leaving WWE in 2014.
3 Talking Points From AEW All Out Episode – 03rd September 2023
On September 3, 2023, the wrestling world turned its attention to AEW’s All Out event, held just a week after another blockbuster pay-per-view. The show defied expectations, giving fans a variety of bouts that ranged from technical masterclasses to visceral, in-your-face brawls. Despite initial skepticism, particularly due to the controversial firing of CM Punk, the event proved to be an unprecedented success. Here are three major talking points that emerged from a night that’s already being called a candidate for pay-per-view of the year. Firstly, the wrestling community couldn’t help but speculate on Wheeler Yuta’s body language during Jon Moxley’s post-match celebrations with the Blackpool Combat Club (BCC). While Moxley reveled in his newfound glory as the International Champion, and Orange Cassidy reveled in a Shibata-esque showing, Yuta seemed unusually pensive. The camera caught him looking back at the ring, where he’d been earlier pummeled, sparking speculation about his future. Could this be the start of a potential face turn for Yuta, or is he just lost in the aura of a significant win? It’s an unanswered question, but one that adds a layer of narrative complexity to the BCC’s storyline. Will Yuta find greener pastures in a reunion with Best Friends? Only time will tell. The second point of discussion centers around Ricky Starks, whose rollercoaster career seems poised for a takeoff. Initially slated to have a breakout match with CM Punk, fate had other plans. Yet, when the bell rang and he faced Bryan Danielson, a legend from Ring of Honor, Starks proved that he was a star in the making. Despite a broken arm and just a day’s notice, the match was an instant classic that had fans and experts alike singing Starks’ praises. If Tony Khan plays his cards right, Starks could become one of AEW’s flagbearers, breaking free from a history of unfortunate setbacks. His performance showed that he’s more than ready for the big leagues; it’s up to AEW to give him that push he genuinely deserves. Lastly, Tony Khan’s ability to deliver yet another electrifying pay-per-view event is under immense scrutiny. Detractors said he’d blown his load at All In, and there was no way he could outdo himself, especially in the shadow of CM Punk’s firing. But deliver he did. The show had everything, from the spectacle of an NBA Hall of Famer making an appearance to a surprise WWE crossover. Moreover, the quality of wrestling was simply off the charts. Matches like Kenny Omega vs. Konosuke Takeshita and Danielson vs. Starks could easily be rated five stars, proving that the talent in AEW can rise to any occasion. Even the bout between Powerhouse Hobbs and Miro surprised in its intensity, echoing the sentiment that AEW is not short on stars or storytelling capabilities. In summary, AEW’s All Out pay-per-view was more than just a wrestling show; it was a statement that the promotion isn’t just an alternative to WWE but a force in its own right. Between Yuta’s intriguing behavior, Ricky Starks’ overdue star-making performance, and Tony Khan’s unflinching resolve to give the fans what they want, the world of professional wrestling seems more exciting than ever. All Out was a triumph, not just for AEW but for wrestling as an art form, and it has set a new standard that other promotions will now have to strive to meet.
CM Punk vs. William Regal Controversy In AEW: All You Need To Know
In the world of professional wrestling, controversies are as inevitable as high-flying moves and dramatic finishes. The latest tempest to hit the AEW (All Elite Wrestling) locker room involves none other than CM Punk and William Regal. The issue came to light through a report and sparked immediate interest and debate among wrestling fans. The tension reportedly began soon after William Regal made his debut for AEW at the Revolution pay-per-view event on March 6, 2022. CM Punk allegedly refused to shake hands with Regal, creating an environment of unease. According to multiple sources who confirmed to Haynes, Punk went a step further by openly stating that he did not “like or trust” Regal. The reason cited was Regal’s close association with WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque, who Punk labeled as a “stooge.” Regal, a seasoned professional in the wrestling business, took this in stride and continued with his AEW stint until December 2022. However, he left the promotion and returned to WWE in January 2023. It’s worth noting that Regal’s decision to leave AEW was not influenced by the CM Punk controversy but had more to do with family commitments. William Regal has been helping coach his son, Charlie Dempsey, a rising star in WWE’s NXT brand. Regal currently holds a backstage role as WWE Vice President of Global Talent Development. While Regal quietly exited AEW and moved on, the story took a different turn for CM Punk. Just a day before the All Out pay-per-view in Chicago, AEW CEO Tony Khan announced Punk’s release from the promotion. The decision followed an incident involving Jack Perry last weekend at the All In event in London, England. Following an internal investigation conducted by a disciplinary committee and an outside legal counsel, Tony Khan deemed it necessary to let go of the controversial star. That same night, before the start of “AEW Collision,” Khan took the time to address the live audience and viewers at home about the situation. He revealed that the incident at All In had made him feel that his “security, safety, and life” were in danger, leading to the tough decision of releasing CM Punk. As of now, the wrestling community is buzzing with opinions, speculations, and debates over these dramatic developments. While the CM Punk vs William Regal controversy in itself did not directly result in any exits from AEW, it certainly sheds light on the underlying tensions that exist in wrestling promotions. Both men have had illustrious careers and a significant impact on the industry, making this clash of personalities all the more intriguing. What remains to be seen is how this entire episode will affect the future prospects of both CM Punk and William Regal, especially given their deeply rooted histories in WWE.
3 Reasons Why WWE Should Bring Back CM Punk Now After AEW Chaos
The world of professional wrestling was sent into a shock when CM Punk, a renowned wrestling icon, terminated All Elite Wrestling (AEW) amidst various controversies. As the dust begins to settle, there is a growing chorus of fans and wrestling insiders clamouring for WWE to bring back CM Punk. While there is no official confirmation of CM Punk’s return at this time, let’s explore three key reasons why WWE should consider the possibility of welcoming CM Punk back into the fold after his shocking exit from AEW. 1. Unmatched Star Power and Fan Appeal CM Punk is a wrestling megastar with a level of fan appeal that transcends the boundaries of the wrestling world. Throughout his career, he has cultivated a dedicated and passionate fanbase that eagerly follows his every move. His return to WWE would undoubtedly generate a surge of interest and excitement among both longtime wrestling fans and those who may have drifted away from the sport. Punk’s ability to connect with audiences through his charisma, compelling promos, and in-ring prowess is undeniable. His presence alone can elevate the profile of WWE events and storylines, creating a buzz that few other wrestlers can replicate. The prospect of seeing CM Punk back in a WWE ring would be a dream come true for many wrestling lovers. 2. Compelling Storyline Opportunities One of the hallmarks of CM Punk’s wrestling career has been his mastery of storytelling within the squared circle. He has been involved in some of the most memorable and emotionally charged storylines in WWE history. His “pipe bomb” promo in 2011, where he voiced his grievances and frustrations with the company, is still regarded as one of the most iconic moments in modern wrestling. Bringing CM Punk back to WWE opens the door to a plethora of storyline possibilities. Whether it’s looking at the old rivalries with established stars or creating fresh narratives with a new generation of talent, Punk’s storytelling prowess can inject new life into the WWE world. The potential matchups and battles that could get the spotlight from his return are enough to excite any wrestling fan. 3. Impact on Ratings and Revenue In an era where television ratings and digital viewership are paramount, the addition of CM Punk to WWE’s roster could have a significant impact on the company’s ratings and revenue streams. Punk’s return would likely draw a substantial television audience, as fans tune in to witness his comeback and follow his journey within WWE. Furthermore, Punk’s merchandise and ticket sales have historically been strong indicators of his popularity. WWE stands to benefit financially from the sale of CM Punk merchandise, tickets to live events, and pay-per-view buy rates featuring his matches. His presence can translate into increased revenue for the company, making his return a potentially lucrative investment. While there are no official announcements regarding CM Punk’s return to WWE, the wrestling world is buzzing with rumors and anticipation. His departure from AEW, coupled with his iconic status in the industry, has fueled discussions about the possibility of his WWE comeback. The allure of having CM Punk back in a WWE ring, with his star power, storytelling ability, and potential financial impact, is undeniable. Whether or not WWE chooses to seize this opportunity remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the wrestling universe would erupt with excitement if the “Best in the World” were to make a dominant return to the company that helped him achieve legendary status.
AEW Terminates CM Punk Following His Controversial Action Against Jack Perry At Backstage
Former WWE superstar CM Punk is now also a former AEW Superstar . CM Punk got his firing orders handed to him after his much talked about scuffle with Jack Perry. Punk’s contract has been officially terminated by the brand and it goes on to show that the thin line of courtesy than Punk crossed,cost him dearly. CM Punk has been fined for vocal and disciplinary actions in the past. His famous shoot, The pipe bomb sequence was also one such unplanned act. But matters here are relating to backstage politics and locker room integrity. A decision had to be taken and the final word on their official newsletter said that CM Punk is no more All Elite.
AEW Star C.M. Punk Tops The Chart For The Highest Merchandise Seller of The Company
Since C.M. Punk’s highly anticipated return to AEW (All Elite Wrestling), the wrestling world has witnessed a resurgence of the “Cult of Personality. Punk’s comeback has been nothing short of a monumental success, marking a seismic shift in the landscape of professional wrestling. Upon his return to AEW, Punk’s star power immediately shone through. His presence alone generated an unprecedented level of excitement and interest, boosting AEW’s viewership significantly. His first match back, against Darby Allin at AEW’s Rampage: The First Dance, was a showcase of his enduring skills and passion for the sport, winning over both fans and critics alike. Furthermore, Punk’s return to the wrestling world breathed new life into the industry’s merchandise sales. His iconic “Best in the World” catchphrase and logo quickly became top sellers, illustrating his enduring popularity. In June 2023, CM Punk, Orange Cassidy, The Acclaimed, and Bullet Club Gold stood out as the leading contributors to AEW’s merchandise sales. Among the most popular items were the Bullet Club Gold T-shirt, the Best in the World T-shirt featuring Punk, the Cassidy T-shirt, the Jade Cargill action figure, and the Foundation T-shirt featuring Punk and FTR, showcasing the diverse range of clothing and collectibles that fans eagerly purchased. Punk has been AEW’s biggest merchandise mover, according to a recent report by Wrestle Features. Additionally, his older theme song, “This Fire Burns,” is among WWE’s most-played songs on Spotify. His second entrance theme, “Cult of Personality,” remains an iconic and cherished anthem within the wrestling community, too. The fervour surrounding CM Punk shows no signs of abating, as he continues to be one of the most prominent and sought-after figures in the current professional wrestling scene. Beyond the commercial success, Punk’s return signifies a major win for AEW in the ongoing competition with WWE. It represents the company’s ability to attract and retain top-tier talent, demonstrating that AEW is a serious contender in the world of professional wrestling. In summary, C.M. Punk’s return to AEW has been an unparalleled success, revitalising the wrestling scene, drawing in new fans, and solidifying his legacy as one of the sport’s most influential figures. His presence has not only benefited AEW but has also reignited the fervour and passion of wrestling fans worldwide.
Will There Be Any Kind Of Punishment For CM Punk And Jack Perry In AEW’s Next Segment?30 August
What Ramifications Apply for CM Punk and Jack Perry at AEW Dynamite on August 30th, 2023: Suspensions Looming? In a shocking turn of events that rocked the professional wrestling world, an explosive backstage altercation between two prominent figures, CM Punk and Jack Perry, unfolded during AEW All-In. The incident has not only captured the attention of fans and insiders but has also sparked intense speculation about the potential ramifications for the involved parties. As the dust settles and investigations begin, the wrestling community is left wondering: will suspensions be handed out to both Punk and Perry? Let’s dissect the details and explore the potential consequences of this headline-making incident. The initial reports of the confrontation were brought to light by Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful. According to Sapp, CM Punk and Jack Perry, known to fans as Jungle Boy, were at the centre of a heated backstage altercation during the AEW All-In event. As the details emerged, various accounts painted a complex picture of the encounter, raising questions about the circumstances that led to the feud. Nick Hausman of Haus of Wrestling provided a deeper insight into the altercation’s origin. Hausman revealed that the tension began with a conversation between Punk and Perry in the gorilla position before the show. This discussion escalated rapidly, with Perry allegedly challenging Punk to “do something about it. In response, Punk reportedly took physical action, pushing Perry and placing him in a chokehold to defuse the situation. Following the confrontation, Punk reportedly exited the scene and later engaged with AEW security before voluntarily leaving the event altogether. However, the plot thickened even before the altercation itself. Hausman’s report shed light on Punk’s experience upon arriving at Heathrow Airport for AEW All In. Allegedly, AEW’s logistical support was severely lacking, leaving Punk without transportation from the airport and even providing an invalid contact number for his supposed driver. This frustrating experience likely contributed to the already high tensions surrounding the event. As insiders analysed the backstage turmoil, Wade Keller of PWTorch revealed that Punk was contemplating quitting AEW due to his mounting frustrations. Despite Punk’s desire for a harmonious locker room environment, controversies and issues have continued to swirl around him since his return to the wrestling scene. At the core of the Punk-Perry feud lies a disagreement over the use of real glass in an angle. While Punk advocated for the use of fake glass for safety reasons, Perry apparently took issue with Punk’s approach, leading to Perry’s on-camera comments about “real glass” during AEW All In. While speculation runs rampant about the potential consequences of the backstage clash, Tony Khan, AEW’s president, confirmed the occurrence of an incident backstage during AEW All In. He assured fans that a thorough investigation is underway to ascertain the truth behind the altercation, signalling his commitment to addressing the matter head-on. As the wrestling community waits with bated breath for the investigation’s outcome, Bryan Alvarez of “Wrestling Observer Live” provided an intriguing tidbit regarding the incident’s aftermath. According to Alvarez, sources within AEW suggest that both Punk and Perry are facing suspensions pending the investigation’s results. If these suspensions are indeed enforced, it could mean both competitors will be absent from AEW’s upcoming event, All Out. This revelation has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, especially considering the event’s importance and the ongoing storyline involving CM Punk. The potential suspensions add an unexpected layer of complexity to AEW All Out’s planning. With the event taking place in Punk’s hometown of Chicago and MJF currently holding the AEW World Heavyweight Championship, the stage was set for a monumental showdown. Should the suspensions materialise, this storyline could drastically change, requiring a quick shift in plans and potential adjustments to the card. Beyond the immediate fallout, the altercation between CM Punk and Jack Perry serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and dynamics that exist within AEW’s locker room. The incident has prompted discussions about Tony Khan’s leadership and his approach to maintaining a harmonious backstage environment. This incident might compel Khan to reevaluate his methods and adopt a more proactive stance in managing conflicts. As wrestling enthusiasts await further developments and the final verdict of the investigation, the wrestling world remains captivated by the drama and intrigue surrounding the Punk-Perry altercation. Regardless of the outcome, this incident has further cemented the notion that the world of professional wrestling continues to be an arena of high-stakes emotions, intense rivalries, and unexpected twists.
