Despite having a devoted fan base, CM Punk was placed sixth on a recent list highlighting the most targeted wrestlers facing online abuse. Intriguingly, the five positions above him were occupied entirely by female wrestlers, underscoring the prevalence of harassment toward women in the industry. This ranking draws attention to CM Punk’s continued presence in the wrestling world, even as he navigates significant criticism online.
Known as The Best in the World, CM Punk’s influence in professional wrestling remains strong. Even during his seven-year hiatus when he vowed never to wrestle again, his name was chanted by fans at almost every wrestling event. While this admiration is clear, it is balanced by a notable level of detractors engaging in online abuse.
Female Wrestlers Lead in Online Harassment Statistics
According to a study by CryptoManiaks focusing on sports-related online negativity, wrestlers top the lists for online abuse, with female stars leading the pack. Charlotte Flair was identified as the most harassed athlete worldwide, carrying a 36.4% negativity rating. This intense level of online harassment, however, has not hindered her career; she recently won her second Women’s Royal Rumble title after returning from a year-long absence due to injury.
Following Flair, the list includes Nia Jax, who has openly shared her struggles with online disrespect. The top five also featured Mercedes Mone, Saraya, and Tegan Nox, who are all females receiving considerable online hostility. CM Punk’s ranking at #6 is followed by notable names such as Chris Jericho, Cora Jade, The Young Bucks, and Jade Cargill, completing the top ten.
Current Wrestling Storylines and Implications
CM Punk’s current involvement on Monday Night RAW has become less prominent after his ongoing feud with Seth Rollins was paused, as LA Knight was prioritized for the next program segment. Knight and Rollins are set to face off at Saturday Night’s Main Event XL, leaving Punk’s immediate role uncertain as fans await his next move.
Meanwhile, Charlotte Flair has shifted focus to tag team competition on SmackDown, partnering with Alexa Bliss to challenge for the Women’s Tag Team Championship at the upcoming Evolution II event. Flair’s character development has seemingly tempered her heel persona, sparking speculation about a potential shift to a fan-favorite role in the near future.
Impact and Future Expectations for Wrestling and Online Abuse
This study on online abuse spotlights a significant challenge in professional wrestling, raising awareness about the harsh digital environment many wrestlers endure, particularly women. The prominence of female wrestlers at the top of the harassment list may prompt discussions about fan behavior and industry responses. For CM Punk, the #6 ranking in online abuse brings additional scrutiny but also reflects his continued relevance in wrestling narratives. As storylines unfold in upcoming events like Saturday Night’s Main Event XL and Evolution II, the visibility and treatment of these athletes both in and out of the ring will remain important topics for fans and commentators alike.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who has beaten CM Punk?
A. Punk would be very popular among regular people. In a wrestling ring filled with giants and strong athletes, he doesn’t look like a large person.
Q. Who has CM Punk beaten?
A. World Heavyweight Champion (2008–2009) At WrestleMania XXIV on March 30, Punk won the Money in the Bank ladder match. He beat Carlito, Chris Jericho, John Morrison, Montel Vontavious Porter, Mr. Kennedy, and Shelton Benjamin. This victory gave him the chance to challenge for the WWE, World Heavyweight, or ECW titles whenever he wanted.
Q. Does CM Punk support LGBT?
A. Punk is a strong advocate for transgender rights. He shows his support both in wrestling and outside of it. While at AEW in 2023, Punk, who calls himself the “Voice of the Voiceless,” spoke out for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Q. Does CM Punk support LGBTQ?
A. Punk wrapped up his speech by expressing his support for gay, lesbian, and especially trans individuals. He admitted he doesn’t know what it’s like to feel stuck in a body that doesn’t feel right for him.
