Matt Riddle reiterates CM Punk is hard to work with but a big draw

Former WWE star Matt Riddle has again targeted CM Punk, reaffirming his view that Punk is difficult to work with backstage while conceding the veteran’s value to the business. In recent remarks on a widely distributed podcast, Riddle reiterated that he believes Punk’s star power helps WWE in terms of ticket sales and merchandise, even as he argued that Punk’s in-ring performance is not what it once was. The comments come as Punk remains a controversial yet influential figure in the wrestling landscape, and shortly after Punk’s high-profile return to WWE’s programming, including a SummerSlam moment that underscored his enduring drawing power.

Riddle’s criticisms are part of a longer pattern that began after his release from WWE in September 2023 for unprofessional conduct. He has long been known for speaking openly about backstage dynamics, and his latest statements align with past assertions that Punk’s presence creates friction behind the scenes. According to Riddle, several colleagues who remain on the WWE roster continue to tell him that Punk can be “a pain to work with.” He stressed that Punk deserves credit for the business impact he generates—“he packs an arena, he sells...