WWE has stepped up its security measures after two of its stars, CM Punk and Rhea Ripley, experienced troubling encounters with fans during public appearances. These incidents, occurring in early 2025, have raised serious concerns about the safety of wrestlers while interacting with the public.
In March 2025, at a WWE live event in Glasgow, Scotland, CM Punk was subjected to inappropriate conduct when a fan repeatedly touched him without consent, even grabbing his arm and neck. Punk reportedly warned the fan that he would retaliate if this behavior continued. More recently, during WWE‘s Europe Tour, Rhea Ripley was overwhelmed and mobbed by fans in public, prompting Punk to speak out against the unacceptable behavior.
Rhea Ripley Speaks Out Against Disrespectful Fan Conduct
Following the incident where she was mobbed near an Uber driver’s vehicle, Rhea Ripley addressed the issue on social media, urging fans to respect personal boundaries. She emphasized that wrestlers deserve common courtesy and humanity, calling attention to how some fans continue to ignore clear limits despite being asked not to cross them.
“Remember, we are people. Do not swarm me or anyone like a pack of rabid zombies… No one should ever be pushed up against a uber drivers door and completely mobbed like I just experienced. Use common courtesy and humanity. No means no. Wtf,” Ripley wrote.
Following this wave of concerning interactions, WWE has decided to provide security escorts for their talent to and from vehicles at events to safeguard against further incidents.
Security Protects Roxanne Perez and Other WWE Stars During Europe Tour
In another troubling occurrence, WWE security was seen escorting Roxanne Perez of The Judgment Day away from a crowd after fans aggressively surrounded her. Clips shared on social media highlight how fan behavior can quickly become overwhelming for the wrestlers.
This issue is not new; similar experiences have been reported by other WWE stars such as Sheamus, who faced aggressive fan interactions during the recent Clash in Paris event. Sheamus participated in a Good Ol’ Fashioned Donnybrook Match against Rusev, demonstrating the ongoing tension between performers’ public appearances and fan conduct.
WWE Responds to Growing Safety Concerns for Wrestlers
The repeated incidents involving CM Punk, Rhea Ripley, Roxanne Perez, and others illustrate an ongoing challenge for WWE regarding fan boundaries and wrestler safety. By increasing security support and escorting talents during vulnerable moments, WWE aims to protect its performers and discourage fans from engaging in disrespectful or invasive behavior.
These steps are critical as the promotion continues its Europe Tour and plans future live events, emphasizing the necessity for safer environments where athletes can engage with their fans without fear or discomfort.
