Since CM Punk was announced to perform at the Night of Champions Premium Live Event in Saudi Arabia, he has faced intense backlash, with fans accusing him of hypocrisy due to his previous criticisms of WWE’s involvement with the country. Despite the criticism, several former wrestling stars have come to his defense, offering unexpected support amid the controversy surrounding his decision.
Veteran Wrestler Disco Inferno Speaks Out in Support of CM Punk
Disco Inferno, known for his time in WCW, addressed Punk’s change in stance during an appearance on the Keepin’ It 100 Official podcast. Responding to a fan question, Inferno dismissed the outrage as manufactured social media drama.
“They literally are just posting things to try to post W’s on social media like, ‘Oh, Punk changed his mind. I’m going go to Saudi Arabia. Let’s do a a blitz on on how despicable he is,'” Inferno said. —Disco Inferno, Former WCW Star
Inferno also referenced a tweet by Brandon Thurston of Wrestlenomics, which criticized Punk’s apology on the Night of Champions Kickoff Show as insincere. He described the backlash as exaggerated and called it “fake outrage.”
“Brandon Thurston posted a tweet, like he wrote an article like about… But bro it’s just ridiculous you know what I’m saying. Even Ryback, he doesn’t like Punk, like was was defending Punk. So, I just think it’s this fake outrage,” he added. —Disco Inferno, Former WCW Star
In addition, Konnan, another wrestling veteran, supported Punk’s right to reconsider his position, stating that the criticism largely amounted to virtue signaling rather than genuine concern.
Ryback and Rob Van Dam Step Up to Support CM Punk’s Choices
Among those defending Punk was Ryback, who despite a history of personal conflict with Punk, rejected accusations of sellout behavior following Brandon Thurston’s critical remarks. Ryback expressed his support through social media, signaling that past disputes would not cloud his judgment.
Similarly, Rob Van Dam weighed in on his 1 of a Kind podcast, clarifying the difference between hypocrisy and personal growth. He argued that opinions can evolve over time, especially considering the five-year gap between Punk’s previous comments and his current decision.
“No, I don’t, I don’t consider [it] hypocrisy, unless it was done at the same time. You know what I mean? Because people can grow, the [sic] perspective can change. And so if he said something five years ago and then now, he feels different about it, then that’s not what a hypocrite is,” he said. —Rob Van Dam, Wrestler
As CM Punk prepares for his ongoing return to WWE, he appears focused on moving past the controversy and refocusing on his in-ring performances and storylines in the months ahead.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is CM Punk’s religion?
A. Punk has acted in horror movies like Girl on the Third Floor and Rabid, both released in 2019, and Jakob’s Wife, which came out in 2021. He was also in the wrestling drama series Heels from 2021 to 2023. Besides acting, he sometimes works as a color commentator for Cage Fury Fighting Championships. Punk follows a straight edge lifestyle and does not believe in any religion.
Q. Is CM Punk a millionaire?
A. CM Punk, a well-known wrestler with a successful WWE career, has also explored MMA and acting.
In 2025, he remains popular after returning to WWE in 2023, earning a high salary.
Punk’s net worth is around $12 million, partly due to real estate investments and endorsement deals.
Q. Is CM Punk religious?
A. A professional wrestler, who goes by the ring name CM Punk, has stated, “I am an atheist.”
Q. Is CM Punk’s tattoo a Pepsi logo?
A. CM Punk has openly commented on the well-known Pepsi logo tattoo located just below his left shoulder, which he’s had for many years.
