The principle occasion of tonight’s (July 8) episode of AEW Collision featured CM Punk vs. Samoa Joe within the semifinal spherical of the boys’s Owen Hart match.

That is arguably the largest match of the whole tourney, given the star energy of each males and their storied rivalry going again 20 years. One level of emphasis heading into the bout is that Punk has by no means crushed Joe. Would something change almost twenty years after their final singles match in opposition to one another?

Joe dominated portion of the match, leaving Punk blown up exhausted late within the struggle and unable to maintain Joe up on his shoulders for the GTS finisher. Joe obtained behind Punk and locked within the choke. However although Punk was drained and gasping for air, the wily vet slipped by Joe’s grip and rolled him up for the win. Joe couldn’t consider that he misplaced.

The gang chanted for Owen Hart after the match whereas Punk and Joe stared at one another. Samoa prolonged his hand to CM, whether or not out of respect or just to understand that competing within the reminiscence of Owen was greater than a win or loss on this match.

Punk accepted the handshake, however it turned out to be a giant mistake. Joe instantly put him to sleep, screaming out that he’s at all times been higher than Punk. Joe then grabbed a metal chair and had one thing worse in thoughts for Punk, however FTR got here out for the save.

It seems to be like Punk vs. Joe is much from over, however within the rapid brief time period this implies we’re getting Punk vs. Ricky Starks within the ultimate match of the match subsequent week on Collision.

What did you consider the 2023 iteration of Punk vs. Joe, Cagesiders?