WWE Rumors: CM Punk Could Be Offered Future, More Serious WWE Movie Role

WWE Studios could be classified as a solid "B-film" studio.  The studio's films have, at least, something of a budget. 

It was noted that during CM Punk's contract negotiation—that turned into one of the best angles of the summer—Stephanie McMahon (Mrs. Helmsley to us drooling fanboys) thought that Punk would be perfect for a role in a WWE film entitled No One Lives.

He turned the role down, and now F4Woline, via WrestleNews.com, has some more information about the rumored role.

Stephanie described the role as a “30-something scumbag with dirtbag good looks and soulless eyes," to quote the report.  Punk reportedly thought the role interesting, but turned it down due to the fact that he was leaving the WWE at the time. 

A bit of research into the film, the role probably went to Brodus "Donkey Kong" Clay.   Brodus plays the role of "Ethan," though I'm not sure how major the role will ultimately be. 

As with most things revolving around Punk, his timing was probably good.  With a standard production budget of $5 million, and an apparently bland cast, it may not have been the right film to launch a budding acting career.

WWE Studios is changing directions under Michael Luisi's new leadership, as evidenced by the studio's recent purchase of the Toronto Film Festival cult hit The Day. Luisi was noted as wanting a change in the studio's film production, including not necessarily using WWE Superstars in lead roles. 

As long as it keeps Triple H's DVD Rack films off my TV, all the better.

Going forward, the report also noted that the WWE, in general, is still very high on Punk—and his ability to sell merchandise and connect with the audience—and is looking to use him in some sort of film.

He recently, as you may recall, passed John Cena as the No. 1 merchandise seller.  Among other things coming for him are a renewed push later this year with a title run (longer than 30 days, one would assume), more TV time and the aforementioned movie role.

With the changes in how the film side of the house will be run and the apparent attempt to make WWE Studios into something more serious, this could be good for Punk.

A role in something a bit more serious could be a good starting point for him. 

Recall Dwayne Johnson's first role as "The Scorpion King" in The Mummy Returns, and his reprisal of the role in the The Scorpion King?  Though neither movie were exactly Oscar contenders, his roles were actually fairly well received by critics and fans in general, with the latter grossing receipts of almost $200 million world wide. 

Punk is widely recognized as one of the best all-around talents in the world, with a "cerebral" promo style that connects with older audiences particularly well. 

Long story short, the man has some innate acting ability.  A good role in a more serious movie would get him farther than a "30-something scumbag."

As with all rumors, however, take it with a grain of salt.