During a recent episode of his podcast 83 Weeks, WWE Hall of Famer and former WCW President Eric Bischoff commented on the escalating backlash concerning CM Punk’s apology related to his participation in a Saudi Arabia event. Bischoff examined the surrounding criticism as part of a larger political debate, recognizing the intense emotion the situation has sparked among fans and commentators.
Bischoff Challenges the Criticism Against CM Punk
Bischoff expressed frustration over the harsh judgment Punk has faced for addressing past statements with a public apology during the Saudi Arabia show. He questioned the logic behind condemning Punk for what was, in Bischoff’s words, a “dumb post” made years ago, emphasizing that everyone has made questionable remarks in the past. Bischoff remarked:
“Just think about it for a moment. I know, we can’t say ‘Let’s not talk politics.’ We’re talking about politics. Can’t talk about politics without talking about it. This whole thing is a political reaction. Here’s how I look at it. I don’t care how anybody else looks at it; to each their own, I guess not. I don’t guess; I know. Here’s my take. You could argue, ‘Dumb post.’ How many years ago? [Five or six] All right, dumb post five or six years ago? How many of us have not said ‘Dumb post within the last five or six years?’ Some of them pretty horrible. I’ll speak for myself.”
—Eric Bischoff, WWE Hall of Famer
Understanding Punk’s Decision and Professionalism
Bischoff also highlighted Punk’s professionalism and the thoughtful approach behind his decision to perform at the Saudi Arabia event despite prior controversies. He pointed out that Punk was aware of WWE’s business arrangements and the expectations tied to them before signing on. Bischoff explained:
“To just beat on this guy because of a stupid post — ehh. That’s — right off the bat, that’s a head-scratcher. Just literally scratched my head. And then the reaction after that, and the heat on him, I tell you what. And Conrad, you and I spoke about this — and you may not remember this — but when there was speculation about Punk leaving AEW before he actually left. And there was speculation about, ‘Oh, what would happen if he went to WWE?’ Long before he did, you and I talked about it. Somebody may have asked a question on the show, ‘What do you think will happen if Punk goes to WWE?’ But I remember specifically saying — something to the effect, I’m going to paraphrase myself — something to the effect of ‘Who knows? Because he’s going from one environment that he’s obviously not functioning in into a very mature process that is very, very well managed. So we’ll see.’ And obviously Punk adapted, and part of that is being a professional. Part of being a professional is recognizing before he made the decision to sign on a dotted line, he knew WWE was doing business in Saudi. He knew what those expectations were. And he reconciled that decision in his own way to his own satisfaction. So I respect Punk. He had to do what he had to do.”
—Eric Bischoff, WWE Hall of Famer
The Broader Context and Future Implications
Bischoff’s defense underscores the complexity behind the CM Punk apology Saudi Arabia controversy, illustrating the tension between public perception, political responses, and the realities of a professional wrestling career. His assessment suggests that decisions made by performers like Punk involve balancing personal values with career considerations in a tightly managed environment such as WWE.
As the debate continues, Bischoff’s remarks may encourage fans and critics to approach the situation with greater nuance, perhaps prompting a more measured discussion about accountability, professionalism, and the changing landscape of wrestling entertainment tied to global partnerships.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who has beaten CM Punk?
A. Punk stands out among regular people. However, in a wrestling ring filled with towering and muscular athletes, he doesn’t appear large.
Q. Who has CM Punk beaten?
A. CM Punk has won against several top wrestlers in WWE history. Some of the notable opponents he defeated include Edge, Jeff Hardy, Chris Jericho, and John Cena.
Q. Does CM Punk support LGBT?
A. Punk is a strong advocate for trans rights. He has shown his support both in and out of the wrestling arena. In his short time at AEW in 2023, Punk, who calls himself the “Voice of the Voiceless,” stood up for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Q. Does CM Punk support LGBTQ?
A. Punk concluded his speech by stating, “As someone who is not gay, lesbian, or transgender, I can’t understand feeling trapped in the wrong body. I support their experiences.”
