WWE Hall of Famer Tito Santana has once again captured the imagination of wrestling fans by naming CM Punk as his ultimate dream opponent in today’s WWE landscape. Speaking with Joel Torres of Contralona, Santana reflected on his recent inclusion in the WWE 2K25 “Saturday Night’s Main Event” DLC pack and shared his thoughts on the modern era of sports entertainment, highlighting Punk as a standout talent he would have loved to face in the ring.
Santana’s Legacy and WWE 2K25 Honor
Tito Santana’s legacy as one of the most influential figures in WWE history is undeniable. From his iconic Intercontinental Championship reigns to his memorable tag team work with Rick Martel as Strike Force, Santana’s in-ring style and charisma left a lasting mark on the industry. Now, with his inclusion in the WWE 2K25 “Saturday Night’s Main Event” DLC pack—alongside legends like Jesse “The Body” Ventura, Junkyard Dog, Sid Justice, and Paul Orndorff—Santana’s impact continues to be celebrated by new generations of fans.
“I’ve said this before because, for me, it’s always been about the opportunity to wrestle the best,” Santana told Torres. “Being part of this DLC pack is a huge honor, but it also reminds me of the matches I never got to have—the dream matches that could have happened if the timing was right.”
The CM Punk Dream Match
When asked about his current dream opponent, Santana didn’t hesitate: “CM Punk is the guy I would have loved to face. I think our styles would have meshed really well. He’s got that technical ability, the charisma, and the ability to connect with the crowd. I always admired how he could tell a story in the ring, and I think we could have put on something special.”
Santana’s admiration for Punk is shared by many in the wrestling community. Punk’s return to WWE in 2023 reignited interest in dream matches that never materialized during his first run, and Santana’s comments add fuel to the fire of speculation about what could have been.
According to a WWE insider, “Tito’s always been a guy who respects the craft. He’s not just talking about Punk because he’s popular—he genuinely believes they could have had a match that would have stood the test of time. It’s a shame they never crossed paths in their primes, but fans love hearing about these ‘what if’ scenarios.”
Santana’s Reflections on Modern WWE
Santana’s comments also touched on the evolution of WWE and the current roster. “The business has changed so much since my time, but the heart of it is still the same,” he said. “You’ve got guys like Punk, Cody Rhodes, and Seth Rollins who are carrying the torch. They’re not just athletes; they’re storytellers. That’s what I always tried to do in my matches.”
Santana’s praise for the modern era is a testament to his respect for the sport and its ongoing evolution. “I’m not just looking back at the past,” he added. “I’m excited to see what the future holds. The talent today is incredible, and I think we’re in for some amazing matches in the years to come.”
The Dream Match That Never Was
The idea of Tito Santana vs. CM Punk is one that has been discussed by fans and analysts for years. Santana’s technical prowess and high-flying style would have contrasted perfectly with Punk’s gritty, hard-hitting approach. Both men are known for their ability to connect with the audience, making a potential match between them a true dream scenario.
“Imagine the storytelling,” Santana said. “It wouldn’t just be about who wins or loses. It would be about the journey, the emotions, and the respect between two competitors. That’s what makes wrestling special.”
While the match may never happen in reality, Santana’s comments have reignited interest in the idea. “It’s always fun to dream,” he said with a smile. “And who knows? Maybe one day, in some alternate universe, we’ll get to see it.”
Santana’s Impact on the Industry
Beyond his in-ring accomplishments, Santana’s influence extends to his role as a mentor and ambassador for the sport. His inclusion in WWE 2K25 is a reminder of his lasting legacy and the respect he commands from both fans and peers.
“Tito’s always been a class act,” said a longtime WWE producer who worked with Santana during his career. “He’s not just a great wrestler; he’s a great person. He’s helped shape the careers of so many young talent, and his passion for the business is contagious.”
Looking Ahead
As WWE continues to evolve, Santana’s reflections on the past and present serve as a bridge between generations. His admiration for CM Punk and other modern stars highlights the timeless nature of professional wrestling and the enduring appeal of dream matches.
“Wrestling is about more than just the matches,” Santana said. “It’s about the connections, the memories, and the stories we tell. I’m proud to be a part of that legacy, and I’m excited to see where the future takes us.”
For fans of Tito Santana and CM Punk, the dream match may remain just that—a dream. But Santana’s words remind us that the magic of wrestling lies in the possibilities, and in the stories that continue to inspire new generations of fans.