I've pondered about talking this for quite some time, because of the amount of how much Punk has grown on me, and likely other IWCers alike. Since the beginning of his run in the WWE, he's been saddled with the complete set; in ring skills, marketability, charisma and so forth. I think the only reason most of us were skeptical of him getting to the top is because of WWE's track record with guys from the indies or lesser bases. Really, he's molded into his own, especially since beginning his heel run on SmackDown!.

I've been talking about it on the GDS boards a bit, and there's no doubt Punk has the most in-depth character in the WWE right now. In this day and age where the babyfaces are crippled with generic personalities, and even heels as well to a certain extent(most of the heel newcomers being the young cocky and arrogant type), CM Punk takes it to another level because he has different values and principles. Yeah, I'm talking about the straight-edge gimmick, because it's used as more than just.. a gimmick. His feuds - at least, so far - actually mean something, there is always a spin put into it, albeit I must admit it is a bit too early to judge. But if he continues like that, there's no telling what he'll be able to do. He single-handedly makes SmackDown! worth watching, well.. you could say Jericho too probably, but right now he isn't in any sort of concrete feud or angle, he's just messing around with Big Show.

Along with how marketable he is, when he turns face again, or even staying as a long-term heel, this guy will be huge. He's clearly the frontrunner of the new wave of "next generation" of superstars WWE have in store. Some say Morrison, but all he has is momentum mostly, and some potential. No denying he has to work on his skills a bit and he could very well be on the same boat.

Well put Hazard.

When Punk was a face i knew there was something about him but i wasn't too keen on him.,

But his performance as a heel has been very very great, the only other heel that can compare to him currently his Randy Orton who has developed his heel legend killer gimmick for the last few years and. Punks managed it in lot less then that.

Morrison humm cant put my finger on it, he has star quality and a lot of potential, but hasn't really got a solid personality. He needs the young Shawn Michael's treatment, some great feuds and titles runs with the IC belt.

Punk and HBk could put on a good feud too if you think about it, if they let Shawn do what he does best and give his character more freedom.

I've only watched a very few of Punks indie matches/promos and knew he was a good sign by WWE, I'm glad he's a heel now as his character has really begun to shine.

He has everything going for him and I see him being in the top spot for a long time to come. WWE really needs to take note from him and have their new characters devolp more character and charisma.

I've always liked Punk.. See good things from him for years to come.