CM Punk, born Phillip Jack Brooks, has captivated audiences not only with his rebellious persona and wrestling prowess but also with a romantic history intertwined with the world of professional wrestling. His journey through various relationships, often with fellow performers, ultimately led him to a lasting partnership with one of WWE's most beloved female stars.
Early in his career, before his mainstream WWE fame, Punk was linked to several women within the wrestling circuit. Among these were Shannon Spruill, known as Daffney, and Becky Bayless, both fellow performers. These relationships were generally brief and kept largely out of the public eye, laying the groundwork for his later, more high-profile romances.
Another notable early connection was with Mickie James, reportedly dating briefly around 2003 when they were both part of TNA Wrestling. While their romantic involvement was short-lived and private, they maintained a strong friendship over the years, with James often speaking highly of Punk and their shared history in the business.
As Punk's career progressed, so did his public relationships. He dated Maria Kanellis from approximately 2005 to 2007, during his time in Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVV) and early WWE tenure. Their relationship was more public, with them often seen together onscreen and off, but their demanding travel schedules ultimately led to their separation.
Around 2006-2007, reports also linked Punk to Barbie Blank, better known as Kelly Kelly, another WWE personality. Their rumored romance reportedly developed during a WWE storyline that saw them working closely together, though details of their relationship timeline and conclusion remained largely private.
One of Punk's most high-profile relationships was with fellow wrestling icon Amy Dumas, known to fans as Lita. They began dating around 2009 and were together until 2013. Their pairing garnered significant media attention due to their respective statuses as wrestling legends, often appearing together at public events and drawing considerable fan interest.
Following his relationship with Lita, Punk was briefly involved with Beth Phoenix around 2010-2011. This relationship was relatively private and short-lived. Public comments from Punk after their split suggested a less than amicable parting, though specific details were not widely disclosed.
CM Punk's most significant and enduring relationship began with April Jeanette Mendez, famously known as AJ Lee. Their romance initially blossomed from a WWE storyline in 2012, where Lee was involved in a love triangle with Punk and Daniel Bryan. This on-screen chemistry soon translated into a real-life connection, captivating fans.
The couple's relationship progressed, and they married on June 13, 2014, in a private ceremony. Their wedding occurred shortly after Punk's controversial departure from WWE, while AJ Lee remained with the company for a period. Their union marked a significant milestone, solidifying their bond away from the wrestling spotlight.
Since their marriage, CM Punk and AJ Lee have maintained a relatively private life, largely staying out of the public eye for several years. They have often been seen supporting each other in various endeavors, including Punk's foray into mixed martial arts and his eventual return to professional wrestling.
Their relationship is characterized by mutual respect and support, with both individuals having achieved considerable success in their respective careers. AJ Lee retired from wrestling in 2015, and the couple has since focused on personal pursuits, occasionally making public appearances together, such as at sporting events.
Currently, CM Punk and AJ Lee remain happily married, often cited as one of wrestling's most stable and private power couples. Their journey from on-screen romance to a genuine, lasting partnership stands as a testament to their deep connection, navigating the unique challenges of public life with enduring commitment.