Despite past criticism, CM Punk’s WWE return in Saudi Arabia was reportedly planned for months.

CM Punk is facing fan backlash for his upcoming match against John Cena at WWE's Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia, especially after a past tweet resurfaced in which he condemned the company's "blood money" deal. 

However, wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer reports that Punk's participation is not a recent decision. 

According to Meltzer, it has been known for months that Punk would be on the show and that he had the option to refuse but chose to go, indicating his agreement was settled long before the current controversy.

Source Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio.