Particle.news
Download on the App Store
4 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

John Cena Calls CM Punk’s Saudi Apology a Transcendent Career Moment

In an Insight interview, the retiring champion said Punk’s Riyadh mea culpa embodied accountability, forgiveness, cultural bridge‑building—enough to make him cry.

US wrestler John Cena (R) and US wrestler CM Punk stand in the ring during a presentation on the eve of their match for the undisputed WWE Championship at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh on June 27, 2025.
Image
Image

Overview

  • Speaking on INSIGHT with Chris Van Vliet, Cena said he was bawling during the Night of Champions pre-show as Punk addressed the crowd in Saudi Arabia.
  • Punk used the kickoff to apologize for a 2020 social media remark that targeted WWE’s partnership with Saudi Arabia.
  • After the apology, Punk delivered a Doctor of Thuganomics–style promo portraying Cena, which Cena praised as a creative success.
  • Punk later challenged Cena for the WWE Championship at Night of Champions in Riyadh but did not capture the title.
  • Coverage highlighted ongoing criticism that WWE’s Saudi events serve sportswashing purposes, even as Cena described the moment as bridging cultures.