Was CM Punk’s Saudi Apology Staged? Backstage Sources Disagree

CM Punk’s unexpected apology for his infamous 2020 tweet about The Miz and Saudi Arabia at WWE Night of Champions has sparked debate online over whether the moment was real—or scripted.

During the kickoff show, Punk broke character to apologize directly to a fan named Muhammad, clarifying the tweet had nothing to do with Saudi Arabia. Dave Meltzer later claimed the moment was “obviously” staged to help Punk’s image.

However, Fightful Select reported that WWE staff backstage had heard no plans for a planted segment, leaving the truth unclear. Was it a quiet PR move, or did Punk truly choose to apologize on his own? The debate continues.

Source: Fightful Select & Wrestling Observer