In an interview with CinemaBlend, CM Punk was asked about any plans to retire in the near future following John Cena’s final match in December.
Considering what age might feel appropriate to leave pro wrestling, Punk replied:
When I was 15, if you asked me if I’d be wrestling when I was 40, I would tell you ‘No, that’s crazy. 40 is so old.’ I’m 47, and I don’t feel old yet. Terry Funk wrestled for a long time, Ric Flair wrestled for a long time. I mean, there’s luchadors that are like in their 70s that are still doing it.
Do I want to be doing that? Probably not. I would estimate probably the big 50 is when I should maybe gracefully bow out. Knock on wood, if nothing else horrible happens.
The reigning World Heavyweight Champion has pursued acting in recent years, most recently starring in the film Night Patrol alongside Justin Long, Jermaine Fowler, and Dermot Mulroney.
Looking back on the final match of his contemporary and fellow actor Cena, Punk noted what made that so special and what he is considering for his own finale in the business:
A lot of the times you don’t get a choice. That’s why it was special to watch John retire. To me, it was a perfect retirement. We’re celebrating a guy who isn’t dead and can still walk. I tell people all the time none of us are getting out alive. He got out at the right time. He showed us a way to exit with dignity and grace, and I don’t know if mine will look that way.
I don’t know what mine’s going to look like. I do know it’s coming sooner than later. I’m still having fun operating at a high level, no matter what anybody says, and until I can’t contribute, I still will.
Night Patrol hits theaters Friday, January 16.