In June 2011, a former WWE Champion had wrestling fans on the edge of their seats as he delivered a fiery promo that took aim at WWE, its management, its creative direction, and his impending departure from the company.

That monologue, now-famously known as the “Pipe Bomb,” blurred the lines between reality and scripted entertainment, with fans still discussing its riveting contents to this day. On this particular day, they’re also celebrating the birthday of the man behind the microphone that night, CM Punk.

Punk Is Celebrating 48

Born Oct. 26, 1978, CM Punk turns 48 today. Wrestling fans best know him for his stints in Ring of Honor, All Elite Wrestling, and World Wrestling Entertainment, the latter of which he works for once more.

Shortly after his “Pipe Bomb” promo, Punk signed a new contract with WWE that carried him through two more world title reigns, a storyline with his future wife AJ Lee, and a WrestleMania clash with The Undertaker.…