Drew McIntyre reignited his ongoing rivalry with CM Punk by openly ridiculing Punk’s physique following McIntyre’s dramatic WWE Championship victory over Cody Rhodes on Friday’s WWE SmackDown. The move comes at a time when the issue of CM Punk physique criticism has become a frequent talking point among WWE personalities and fans.
McIntyre Captures WWE Championship Amid Chaos
Drew McIntyre secured the WWE Championship by defeating Cody Rhodes in a grueling 3 Stages of Hell match. The fight took an unexpected turn when Jacob Fatu made a surprise return, attacking both Rhodes and McIntyre, ultimately aiding McIntyre’s victory. Moments after clinching the title, McIntyre did not miss the chance to draw attention to a long-standing feud by launching another jab at CM Punk, the reigning WWE World Heavyweight Champion.
Public Taunts on Social Media Target Punk’s Image
Taking to Twitter/X soon after his win, McIntyre took aim at Punk’s appearance with a clear and direct message:
“No t-shirt needed. This is what a real Champion looks like,”
— Drew McIntyre, WWE Champion
The post gained immediate traction as many recognized the jab’s intent, connecting it to recent conversations surrounding Punk’s attire in the ring.
Kevin Nash’s Criticism Fuels Feud
McIntyre’s latest comment echoed sentiments recently voiced by WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash. On his Kliq This podcast, Nash openly criticized CM Punk for wrestling while wearing a t-shirt, interpreting it as a sign that Punk was nearing retirement and no longer at peak fitness. Nash’s remarks stirred controversy, highlighting the critical environment surrounding Punk’s current run.
CM Punk responded at a WWE live event by theatrically wearing two shirts, eventually removing the top layer mid-show. Punk later insisted his actions aimed to amuse his opponent, Bronson Reed, rather than address Nash’s statements. However, Nash did not back down, replying sarcastically that a gym session would “have been easier,” and noting the irony in Punk’s choice to wear an “NDT” shirt considering Punk’s past criticisms of Nash’s career longevity.
Context and Potential Fallout
This latest episode adds another chapter to the ongoing drama between McIntyre and Punk, both major figures in the company as champions. The rivalry, now brought further into the spotlight by social media barbs and outside commentary from industry veterans like Nash, is likely to intensify in coming events. With the issue of CM Punk physique criticism now at the center, fans can expect heightened tension and more pointed exchanges both online and in the ring.
No t-shirt needed. This is what a real Champion looks like. pic.twitter.com/eAMG3z9GsI
— Drew (@DMcIntyreWWE) January 11, 2026
Congratulations Champ!!
— Kevin Nash (@RealKevinNash) January 12, 2026
