After Kevin Nash, a WWE Hall of Famer, openly criticized CM Punk for wrestling in a t-shirt and suggested he should retire, veteran Stevie Richards has spoken out in defense of Punk. The outspoken remarks come after Punk, also known as “The Second City Saint” and the reigning World Heavyweight Champion, appeared on the December 22 episode of RAW streaming on Netflix, where he and Rey Mysterio lost to Austin Theory and Bronson Reed of The Vision.
On his podcast, The Stevie Richards Show, Richards addressed the criticism aimed at Punk’s recent performances. Despite Punk’s advancing age and style changes in the ring, Richards argued that Punk—often referred to as “The Best in the World”—continues to deliver compelling narratives for audiences. Richards acknowledged that while Punk may now rely on his staple move set, known among fans as his “five moves of doom,” his ability to tell a story stands out.
[CM Punk’s] punches may have been, I don’t know if weak is the word, but at the same time, what he’s doing is slowing down and trying to tell a story,” Stevie Richards said. “Punk’s still got the five moves of doom. And still, most of the time, he executes those very well.”
Richards referenced up-and-comer Carmelo Hayes, contrasting Hayes’s energetic, high-flying techniques with Punk’s storytelling approach. He made it clear that across wrestling styles, audience engagement is rooted in the narrative told during the match, and in his view, Punk continues to do that effectively, even as he adjusts to the realities of performing at age 47.
Speculation Over Punk’s Wardrobe and WWE’s Holiday Tactics
The issue of CM Punk wrestling in a t-shirt became fodder for further debate, with questions arising about whether it was motivated by self-consciousness or strategic merchandise promotion. Richards weighed in, suggesting that Nash’s negative comments might sway decisions by creative leaders such as Triple H, since Nash has a longstanding relationship with WWE’s Chief Content Officer. Richards speculated this could impact the outcome of Punk’s World Heavyweight Championship defense slated for January 5, 2026.
Turning to Punk’s attire during the Christmas episode of RAW, Richards highlighted that the holiday period typically falls between WWE’s major Survivor Series event in November and the Royal Rumble in January, a season when the company rarely progresses major storylines. He suggested practical reasons for the t-shirt, from seasonal indulgences to possible merchandise pushes.
It could be [Punk’s way of getting some last minute sales] or because of the holiday season — he was enjoying carbs a little bit too much! Like we all kind of do. But when you’re on TV, it’s a lot more noticeable. Punk’s got the same body type as I do, and we both used to joke that we are skinny fat.All the weight goes to that lower part of your abdomen, where you can be as lean as you want up, but if you turn to your side, you got a dad bod [laughs]. So, Punk could be self conscious,” Richards felt.
Richards candidly noted that the realities of live television amplify minor physical changes, joking about sharing a similar physique with Punk by labeling themselves as “skinny fat.” His take combined humor with realism about the pressures of appearing on camera, concluding that Punk’s choice could have come from anything from brand sales to personal comfort.
Upcoming Challenges and WWE Title Picture
Looking ahead, CM Punk’s rivalry with The Vision is set to continue well into the new year. The World Heavyweight Champion will defend his title against Bron Breakker on the first RAW of 2026, maintaining high stakes as the storyline intensifies. The company is reportedly considering unexpected title changes, meaning the landscape could shift rapidly. In the parallel title scene, Drew McIntyre will challenge Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship on the January 9 edition of SmackDown, further heightening suspense for fans.
Amid debates about wrestling styles, in-ring presentation, and backstage influence, the coming weeks are set to be pivotal for Punk and the WWE. Supporters like Stevie Richards argue that successful wrestling hinges on magnetic storytelling, as demonstrated by CM Punk’s enduring connection with audiences. The outcomes of these marquee matches will likely shape WWE’s creative direction as the industry moves past the holiday season and into its next phase of high-profile events.
