Controversy erupted around the
“CM Punk backlash in Saudi Arabia”
after Punk arrived for the WWE Night of Champions event, where he is set to challenge John Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championship. The uproar began when a video surfaced showing Punk ignoring a young fan who approached him for a selfie at a Saudi venue.
Fan Anger Spikes After Punk Dismisses Young Supporter
Upon his arrival in Saudi Arabia, CM Punk was seen entering a venue accompanied by Randy Orton and a security guard. As the group proceeded inside, a child holding up a phone tried to approach Punk for a photo. Instead of engaging, Punk used his hand to move the child away and kept walking, which did not sit well with onlookers.
This act led to immediate criticism from fans across social media and wrestling communities. A flood of negative reactions followed, with viewers interpreting his gesture as inappropriate and disrespectful, particularly toward a young fan.
Reaction from the Wrestling Community and What Happened Next
The backlash grew as more fans expressed their disappointment in Punk’s behavior. One fan remarked,
“He really just pushed the kid? Keep him over there!”
—another fan. Another commenter questioned,
“Why would he push that kid like that?”
—another fan. Additional fans described the scene as, “Wow, what a di*k,” and “Horrible behavior.” —another fan.
Adding to the controversy, Matt Riddle, a former WWE Superstar and current MLW Champion, also commented on the situation. Despite his involvement, most responses directed at Riddle urged him to focus on himself, referencing his own controversial past, suggesting that the wrestling community is wary of moral commentary from those with complicated histories.
Potential Impact on Punk and the WWE Event
This negative incident has overshadowed CM Punk’s highly anticipated match with John Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championship at Night of Champions. With criticism mounting from fans and wrestling figures alike, the WWE may be forced to address the incident, especially as it risks affecting the event’s reception in Saudi Arabia. The episode also brings renewed scrutiny to the behavior of high-profile wrestlers like Punk, as WWE continues expanding its global presence and aims to maintain a positive public image among international audiences.
