The negative reaction CM Punk faced during the Champions Kick-Off Show in Riyadh was anticipated by WWE officials. Fightful Select reports that the company was prepared for the backlash. The crowd’s boos were triggered by Punk’s controversial 2020 tweet, where he made harsh comments about Miz involving “blood money” and Saudi Arabia. Punk addressed the controversy during the kickoff show by apologizing to both the fans and Miz. Despite his apology, the audience remained unsettled, which WWE expected. With tensions easing, attention is now turning to CM Punk’s undisputed WWE Championship match.
Fan Take: This incident highlights the delicate balance WWE must maintain between personal history and fan engagement. For fans, it underscores the importance of accountability and how past actions can influence present moments, potentially shaping the future narrative of the sport.