WWE Hall of Famer throws support behind rumored CM Punk dream match

CM Punk's return to WWE has been closely followed by a rumored dream match against Stone Cold Steve Austin. The legendary wrestler last competed against Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 38, but Punk's return has fans dreaming of a potential feud between the two stars.

Speaking on a recent episode of the "Strictly Business" podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff noted how he would love to see the two square off. However, Bischoff isn't sure Austin is in or could get into, the physical shape necessary to carry out such a big match. 

"I question whether Steve’s in a place physically where he wants to get in there and bounce around," Bischoff said (h/t to Fightful for the transcription). "Steve is also the kind of guy that doesn’t want to go out there and be less than what people remember him being. It’s one thing to go out in a WrestleMania moment for a spot. That’s not a match. I could see Steve getting physically, but a match? A 12-or-15-or-18-minute match that requires give and take? I hope Steve’s physically in a place where he feels confident he wants to do that because that would be amazing, but it’s been a minute."

Punk's return to WWE has been the hottest topic in wrestling. If the mercurial talent can keep himself out of trouble, he will be an immense addition to RAW's locker room. Yet, a feud with Austin — a living legend for wrestling fans — would likely draw record-breaking numbers. That's why you sign a performer like Punk, because of the way he raises the ceiling in PLEs, especially when in the ring with other top-quality wrestlers.

Paul Levesque has taken a risk by bringing CM Punk back to WWE. Everybody knows how things could look if they turn sour. But if everything works out, the partnership could spur a huge influx of interest, returning fans and new fans in the coming months and years ahead. 

A dream match with Austin would be an ideal way to remind everyone why Punk is considered to be one of the best in the world. However, it isn't the only way to get the returning star back over with some of the more skeptical members of the fan base.