CM Punk Clarifies Past Controversial Comments About Saudi Arabia

CM Punk clears the air on his years long controversy with Saudi Arabia ahead of WWE's next big PLE Night of Champion in the country.

CM Punk Clarifies Past Controversial Comments About Saudi Arabia

CM Punk (via WWE)

In the past, CM Punk made several bold comments about WWE’s partnership with Saudi Arabia. During his time in AEW, ‘The Best in the World’ openly criticized the Stamford-based promotion for holding events in a country he believed imposed numerous constraints. However, ‘The Second City Saint’ has yet to clarify or address those controversial remarks.

During an Instagram Live session, the former WWE Champion was asked if he would be open to traveling to Saudi Arabia for an upcoming WWE Premium Live Event. Responding with calm composure, Punk clarified that he does not hate the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. However, he admitted that he has never visited the country and, as a result, is unfamiliar with its customs and what is or isn’t acceptable there. CM Punk said, via IG live:

I’ve never been to Saudi, I don’t hate coming to Saudi.

Fans had long anticipated CM Punk’s response to the controversy. Many believed that the Chicago-born star would refuse to perform in Saudi Arabia due to his past comments. Adding fuel to those rumors, Punk notably missed WWE’s last PLE in the Middle East—Crown Jewel 2024. However, based on his recent response, it can be concluded that he has no issue performing in Saudi Arabia after all.

Moreover, WWE is reportedly set to host only one Premium Live Event in Saudi Arabia this year—Night of Champions, scheduled for next month. However, in 2026, the company is expected to hold three major PLEs in the country, potentially including the Royal Rumble. ‘The Best in the World’ is unlikely to miss all of those high-profile events, so it made sense for him to clear the air now.

CM Punk wants to wrestle AJ Styles in WWE

CM Punk shared his thoughts on a variety of topics during his recent Instagram Live. He spoke about his desire to face several champions in WWE over the coming years before eventually hanging up his boots. Surprisingly, Punk mentioned AJ Styles as one of his dream opponents, expressing interest in facing The Phenomenal One before they both retire.

CM Punk and AJ Styles
CM Punk and AJ Styles (via WWE)

‘The Second City Saint’ stated that he wants to face AJ Styles in a WWE ring before they both turn 50. His words quickly sparked speculation and excitement among fans, as the two have never shared the ring before. Although Punk didn’t offer any further details, his comments were enough to reveal a genuine interest in finally squaring off against the former TNA star.

Styles and Punk share a similar wrestling style, which makes their potential clash an exciting dynamic. With several major PLEs on the horizon, WWE could position the two for a high-stakes showdown in the coming months. One thing is clear—whenever this match happens, it has the potential to main event of any show. It will be interesting to see whether this long-awaited dream match finally becomes a reality.

Massive update on CM Punk’s potential match with John Cena

John Cena and CM Punk crossed paths earlier this year in both the Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber matches. In those brief encounters, the two veterans turned back the clock, offering fans a nostalgic glimpse of their iconic 2011 rivalry. Since then, anticipation has been building around when Punk will face Cena one-on-one as part of the latter’s farewell tour.

John Cena and CM Punk
John Cena and CM Punk (via WWE)

According to PWInsider, WWE is planning a match between ‘The Best in the World’ and ‘The Cenation Leader’ later this year. However, there are currently no plans for it to take place in the coming months—particularly at Money in the Bank. This update was disappointing for fans who were hoping to see the two clash once again on the same stage where their iconic 2011 match took place.

The report further clarifies that WWE is waiting for the perfect moment to stage this epic showdown. One thing is certain: the match will take place before Cena retires in December this year. It’s possible that Punk could be the one to retire Cena from WWE at the conclusion of his farewell tour. Regardless, it will be fascinating to see what WWE has planned for this highly anticipated encounter.

Also Read: