WWE talent has officially landed in Riyadh for this weekend’s SmackDown and Night of Champions events — and CM Punk wasted no time stirring the pot.
New footage surfaced online showing Punk greeting fans in Saudi Arabia, but it’s what he said that instantly got people talking. While posing for a photo with a group of fans, Punk noticed one of them rocking a Roman Reigns shirt. Never one to pass up the chance for a jab, Punk joked that he needed to change the shirt.
The moment got plenty of laughs from those around him, including the fan, before they all posed for the photo together. Punk, dressed in a bright pink “HART 84” shirt, kept it light, but the joke wasn’t lost on the internet — especially with the ongoing tension between Punk and Reigns in WWE storylines.
The footage comes just hours after Triple H confirmed that WWE talent had officially arrived in Riyadh. He posted a photo of the company’s charter flight on the tarmac with the caption:
“Touched down in Riyadh. #SmackDown tomorrow…#WWENOC Saturday…Are you ready?”
WWE’s trip to Saudi Arabia had been under question earlier this week due to increased global tension in the region. Reports surfaced about “US Jets scrambling over Saudi Arabia,” adding to the uncertainty. WWE talent reportedly hadn’t been updated on the situation as of Monday, but the company has since pressed forward with their scheduled plans.
The shows, set for SmackDown and Night of Champions, continue WWE’s controversial but lucrative partnership with Saudi Arabia — and if CM Punk’s arrival is any indication, the stars are ready to bring the drama.
What did you think of Punk’s jab at the Reigns shirt? Just friendly banter or a sign of things to come? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.