CM Punk Says Fans Waiting at Airports and Hotels Is ‘Tantamount to Stalking’

CM Punk may thrive under the bright lights of WWE, but when the cameras are off, the Chicago native admits there’s one part of the job that he struggles with—constant invasions of his personal space.

In a new GQ YouTube video, Punk explained that while he loves his fans and gives them his all when he’s working, the hardest part of being a WWE Superstar for him is dealing with strangers crossing boundaries in his personal life.

“One of the hardest parts of being a WWE Superstar for me, at least, is the relationship I have with fans in public. You see me on the street, I am not CM Punk. I’m just a dude, Phil, trying to mind his own business and walk his dog and not be bothered.”

He made it clear that he never shies away from engaging with fans when he’s at the arena.

“When I’m at work, I give all to the fans. I show up to buildings, I go outside, and I will sign and take pictures with the fans who are lined up at the building.”

But he drew a firm line when it comes to other settings.

“If you are waiting for me at an airport or a hotel, I will say, ‘No, thank you, sir. This is an airport and or a hotel; this is tantamount to stalking.’”

CM Punk’s honesty shines a light on the challenges of balancing celebrity status with personal privacy, something every major star has to navigate in their own way.

Do you agree with Punk’s stance on separating work life from private life, or should WWE Superstars expect fan interactions everywhere they go? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.