Did CM Punk Have a Choice About WWE’s Saudi Arabia Show?

CM Punk’s involvement in WWE’s upcoming Night of Champions event in Saudi Arabia has fans questioning whether the former AEW star had a choice in the matter. Despite being advertised for the June 28 event, Punk’s past criticism of WWE’s Saudi partnership has left many wondering if he was pressured to appear.

Dave Meltzer addressed the situation on the latest episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, suggesting that while talent technically has the option to skip the Saudi shows, the pressure to go is significant. Meltzer said, “Guys have the option not to go but they are pressured to go, like pretty hardy. He said he would never go. But you know, people say a lot of things.”

Punk’s history of vocal opposition to WWE’s Saudi events is well-known. Back in 2020, he slammed The Miz with a now-infamous line, “Go suck a blood money covered d** in Saudi Arabia you f******* dork.”* Now, fans are quick to call him out for appearing to go back on his word.

One fan tweeted, “I knew this guy love that saudi money lmao,” while another sarcastically asked, “Drowning in blood money, Pepsi Man?!” The backlash has been fierce, with some calling Punk a “sellout” and a “hypocrite” for seemingly caving to WWE’s pressure.

CM Punk’s inclusion in WWE’s Saudi Arabia event has stirred up plenty of controversy, especially given his outspoken stance against the country’s partnership with WWE in the past. With Dave Meltzer suggesting that stars are pressured to make the trip despite having the option to refuse, Punk’s decision to go – or not – will undoubtedly speak volumes about where he stands now. Stay tuned as the fallout continues.

Did CM Punk really have a choice in going to Saudi Arabia, or was he pushed into it by WWE management? Share your thoughts in the comments below!