"CM Punk’s Saudi Apology Turns Boos Into Cheers at Night of Champions"

 CM Punk Issues Public Apology in Saudi Arabia Over Infamous "Blood Money" Tweet

Riyadh, June 27, 2025 – During the kickoff segment for WWE’s Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia—the 11th installment of the event—CM Punk addressed a lingering controversy. A fan from the crowd asked him to apologize for a caustic tweet from six years earlier. Responding directly, Punk extended a sincere apology to the entire nation and its people. 

What Prompted the Apology?

In 2019, while still at odds with WWE, Punk posted a tweet aimed at fellow wrestler The Miz, telling him to “go suck a blood‑money‑covered d*** in Saudi Arabia, you f***ing dork.” Back then, it stirred controversy because it implicated the Kingdom’s hosting of WWE events as “blood money” – a harsh critique suggesting profit at the cost of moral compromise.  

Fast forward to 2025, with Punk’s match against John Cena headlining Night of Champions in Riyadh, reminders of that tweet resurfaced. As he made his entrance, the Saudi audience booed him, expressing visible disapproval.  

The Apology: Words That Mattered

A fan in the front row challenged Punk by name. Calm and poised, he replied:

> “This guy wants me to apologize for a mean tweet I wrote six years ago… I woke up and I was crabby and wrote a mean tweet to The Miz. I apologized to The Miz. And sir, what’s your name? Muhammad? Muhammad, I sincerely apologize to you and all of Saudi Arabia.”  

He added:

> “I am not perfect by any means. Sometimes as human beings, we screw up. The beautiful thing is everything is a lesson learned.”  

His direct apology resonated with many: he shook the hand of “Muhammad,” hugged him, and concluded with a respectful bow. Some fans cheered, and his theme song—“Cult of Personality”—echoed once more throughout the arena.  

Reaction: Mixed Yet Powerful

Fan reaction was divided. On platforms like Reddit’s r/WWE, users expressed strong opinions:

> “Nothing more punk than shilling out for blood money”

“Same old fraud. Same old liar.”  

Others defended him:

> “People change and grow… he realized his mistakes…and they moved on.”  

Media outlets such as Bleeding Cool hailed the apology as a “true class” gesture, praising Punk for putting business over personal pride.   Conversely, Cageside Seats and Bleacher Report noted how his apology reinforced John Cena’s critique—that Punk’s principles waver when lucrative deals are on the table, dubbing him an “opportunist.”  

Strategic and Personal Implications

1. Fan Relations and Reputation Management

By addressing the tweet head‑on, Punk shored up goodwill ahead of his big match. WWE veteran John Cena reportedly had challenged Punk’s integrity, saying: “You change your values as much as I change my T-shirts.” Punk’s apology allowed him to respond without confrontation.  

2. Business Alignments with Saudi Arabia

WWE’s decade‑long partnership with Saudi Arabia, reportedly part of a $500 million deal, relies on star athletes like Punk honoring the country’s fans. His apology helped mitigate backlash and signal respect.  

3. Character and Legacy

As the self‑styled “Voice of the Voiceless,” Punk built his brand on anti‑establishment rhetoric. Critics argue this apology undermines that persona, calling him a “hypocrite.” Supporters suggest the public apology showcases true maturity and accountability.  

Moving Forward: What’s Next?

Night of Champions Main Event: Punk now closes out the feud with Cena in a high‑stakes match. How receptive the crowd remains may shape the storyline arc.

WWE’s Saudi Strategy: With this apology in the public eye, WWE may continue cultivating goodwill within the Kingdom.

CM Punk’s Growth: Will this apology mark a sustained pivot from his previous persona? Or is it a calculated move in a broader career strategy?

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TL;DR

– CM Punk addressed and apologized for a controversial 2019 tweet in Saudi Arabia during the kickoff of Night of Champions 2025.

– He admitted the tweet was just a mean comment during a bad day and aimed at The Miz—not the Saudi people.

– His apology was met with mixed reactions: boos, cheers, and strong commentary online.

– It’s a pivotal moment that affects his reputation, WWE’s business ties, and his persona heading into his match with Cena