Matt Riddle, a former WWE Superstar, has intensified his criticism of CM Punk following Punk’s recent return to WWE. In a recent TMZ Sports interview, Riddle called CM Punk a “creep” and a “b*tch,” asserting that Punk’s reputation is partly because of the money and attention he draws within the wrestling world.
Riddle, who was released from WWE in September 2023 after five years with the company, made these comments shortly after Punk’s high-profile comeback at Survivor Series on November 25. This confrontation continues to fuel tensions between the two wrestlers amid WWE’s evolving locker room dynamics.
Matt Riddle’s Confrontational Remarks About CM Punk
During the interview with TMZ Sports, Matt Riddle doubled down on his previous allegations against CM Punk. He labeled Punk a “b*tch” and challenged him to confront him either in a bare-knuckle boxing match or an MMA cage, showing no signs of backing off from his tough stance.
“Well, let’s be honest. Did I lie? CM Punk’s a b*tch. 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 explained that while he holds no direct animosity, his issues lie with Punk’s behavior. He perceives Punk as disingenuous and overstepping boundaries within WWE, specifically in the NXT locker room area.
When questioned about the reasons behind his strong language, Riddle claimed Punk spends an excessive amount of time lingering around NXT’s locker room, implying it’s inappropriate or unwelcome.
“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
Background on Matt Riddle’s WWE Tenure and Departure
Matt Riddle’s WWE stint lasted from 2018 until September 2023, when he parted ways with the company following multiple issues. Notably, Riddle disclosed that he was suspended twice due to failed drug tests related to cocaine use during his time in WWE. His exit preceded CM Punk’s return to the company by roughly two months.
Despite this turbulent backdrop, Riddle continues to comment publicly on WWE affairs, often in a controversial or confrontational manner, keeping him in the spotlight even after his departure.
Recent Controversies Surrounding Matt Riddle
Outside of his criticisms of CM Punk, Matt Riddle has faced backlash regarding a charity event in the United Kingdom. The event was organized to raise funds for survivors of domestic abuse and homeless veterans but was reportedly marred by Riddle’s no-show, as well as allegations that he has not returned a deposit from the Global Wrestling Kingdom, the event’s promoter. Riddle disputes these accusations, though they add to his recent public controversies.
CM Punk’s Current Status and Upcoming Appearance
Meanwhile, CM Punk is preparing for an on-screen reunion with his wife, AJ Lee, marking her first WWE match in a decade. They are scheduled to team up against Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch at the Wrestlepalooza event. This storyline follows Punk’s return and signals WWE’s intent to reintroduce him prominently within its programming.
Additional WWE News Highlights
WWE recently revealed that the Women’s World Title has been vacated, with a new champion to be crowned at Wrestlepalooza. Meanwhile, rapper Drake has mentioned a WWE superstar as his muse during a podcast, generating buzz around the crossover between music and wrestling.
There are also rumors within wrestling circles about a possible reunion of one of WWE’s legendary tag teams at Wrestlepalooza, enticing fans of veteran performers. In other developments, WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton shed light on her reluctance to take the babyface role, providing insight into character decisions backstage.
On the recent episode of WWE Monday Night Raw in Paris, Jey Uso endured a challenging night following an attack, candidly stating, “I can’t do it.” Additionally, a former WWE Superstar discussed the unusual atmosphere following Vince McMahon’s surprise return to the company in 2023, while an AEW star recovering from major knee surgery emphasized a cautious, patient rehab process.
Lastly, the current WWE Champion recently ended a losing streak on Raw that extended beyond 455 days, breaking a significant dry spell in the company’s competitive landscape.
What’s Next for Riddle, Punk, and WWE
Matt Riddle’s outspoken criticism of CM Punk highlights ongoing friction between former and current WWE talent during a period of major roster shifts and storyline developments. As Punk prepares for high-profile matches and reunions, the wrestling world will be watching closely to see if any real-life confrontations or collaborations emerge.
The brewing conflict gives WWE additional drama both on and off-screen, feeding fan speculation and media coverage. For Riddle, public comments remain a way to maintain relevance, while Punk’s renewed visibility suggests he will continue to be a central figure in WWE’s immediate future.
