Matt Riddle has once again brought attention to the ongoing tension between himself and CM Punk, targeting the Undisputed WWE Champion during an interview on the TMZ Inside The Ring podcast. The focus keyword Matt Riddle CM Punk NXT Tension is central to the controversy as Riddle expressed his frustration over Punk’s behavior within WWE, especially concerning Punk’s frequent presence around the NXT locker room.
Riddle Voices Strong Criticism of CM Punk’s Character and Attitude
In the candid conversation, Riddle did not hold back his harsh opinions, labeling CM Punk as “fake” and difficult to cooperate with professionally. His remarks included a direct challenge to Punk, suggesting physical confrontations such as a bare-knuckle boxing match or an MMA fight as ways Punk could prove himself.
Well, let’s be honest. Did I lie? CM Punk’s a bitch. He can’t beat me if he wants to step up. He can meet me in a bare-knuckle boxing fight. He can meet me in an MMA cage, whatever, dude…. I have no ill will towards CM Punk. I bet he’s a nice enough guy if you agree with him, but I don’t, you know, and I think he’s fake, and I think he’s a creep. And that’s coming from me. And people think I’m a creep. I haven’t done anything wrong.
—Matt Riddle
Riddle Suggests Punk’s Presence Around NXT Is Unwarranted
When questioned more about his “creep” comment, Riddle hinted that CM Punk has been spending too much time in the NXT locker room, implying that Punk’s involvement there feels excessive or intrusive. Despite the pointed statement, Riddle downplayed his intentions, insisting he was not there primarily to discuss Punk.
I don’t know. I feel like he’s just lingering around the NXT locker room a little too much…that’s one way of putting it. You know, whatever, dude, I don’t care. I didn’t come on here to talk about CM Punk.
—Matt Riddle
Historic Rivalry Between MMA-Crossover Wrestlers Continues to Fuel Fan Interest
The animosity between Riddle and Punk is not new, with Riddle previously mentioning that several colleagues view Punk as challenging to work with. Both men share backgrounds spanning mixed martial arts and professional wrestling, making their rivalry particularly notable among fans and insiders alike as it blends competition inside and outside the ring.
What This Means for WWE’s Landscape Moving Forward
Riddle’s remarks add another layer to the real-life feud between two prominent WWE figures, highlighting tensions that go beyond scripted storylines. With CM Punk’s ongoing connections to NXT and Riddle’s open disdain, this dynamic could influence backstage relations and fan perception in the months ahead, especially as both continue to hold influential positions within WWE’s evolving roster.
