I agree that the comparisons are overblown, and that CM Punk is more the first CM Punk than the next Steve Austin. There are some similiarities, as highlighted by other responses, but there's really one thing from the OP that I want to comment on:
Excuse me, what? CM Punk can't pass for a legit tough guy? CM Punk is possibly the toughest looking man on the roster today. CM Punk looks like a guy you'd accidentally bump into in prison who'd then slit your throat in the shower and walk away without batting an eye, or like an MMA fighter who would step into the cage with you, knock you on your ass, break your arm, and smile about. What would make you think Punk doesn't look tough? Because he doesn't have massive roided out muscles? If that's what you think makes a man tough, you've got a pretty damn foolish perspective on the world.
