CM Punk has revealed he has no relationship with the WWE and has only returned to the fold with broadcaster FOX.
The former wrestler and UFC fighter made a surprise appearance last week to spark claims he would soon return to the ring.
But speaking on WWE Backstage on Tuesday night, CM Punk - real name Phillip Brooks - explained his real role.
"I do not work with, have any relationship with and have not talked to anyone at WWE. It’s strictly a Fox thing. I get to criticise the product," he said.
"I don’t think this job existed six months ago. Somebody floated the idea and I didn’t immediately go, 'Ugh, no'.
"I work for Fox. I haven’t talked to anybody in the WWE. It’s nothing I’m actively pursuing or interested in. But I’m 41 years old and I’ve lived an experienced life where I know to not say no.
"That’s going to be a bridge that has to be built and it might take as long as building the Great Wall of China. There are some hurdles."
Punk's 434-day WWE Championship reign remains one of the longest in the company's history before he retired in 2014.
But UFC career was a short-lived disaster as he lost twice, first by first-round submission to Mickey Gall in 2016 and then by unanimous decision to Mike Jackson two years later.
After his appearance last week, the WWE said: "CM Punk, one of the most celebrated WWE Superstars of all time, joins the roster of FS1's WWE Backstage, beginning next week, Tuesday, November 19.
“Phil Brooks, better known as CM Punk, joins WWE Backstage as a special contributor and analyst. He will make select appearances in studio alongside host Renee Young and analyst Booker T.
"The Best in the World" joins fellow regular contributors Christian and Paige, as well as new correspondent Ryan Satin on the WWE Backstage rotation.
“Television's only studio show devoted to all things WWE, Backstage discusses the week's biggest stories with a varied cast of guest and personalities, in addition to breaking news and exclusive behind-the-scenes access to WWE."
