The rise of social media has undeniably bridged the gap between fans and wrestlers, but it has occasionally led to uncomfortable situations. An incident occurred in 2023 when Rhea Ripley, a former WWE Women’s World Champion, recounted being relentlessly pursued by a fan for an autograph despite her refusal, deciding to stop signing items altogether.
Recently, CM Punk, Ripley’s colleague, faced a similar challenge. On his Instagram Story, Punk expressed his love for his fans but emphasized the need for them to “respect boundaries and privacy.” He stated clearly that “airports are not a meet and greet” and warned that if he had to repeatedly ask someone to stop following him, that person had crossed a line. Punk concluded his message by urging fans to “stop using your children as a shield or an excuse.”
This incident at the airport isn’t the first time Punk has spoken out about fan harassment outside the ring. During his infamous 2014 podcast with Colt Cabana, he discussed the discomfort of being approached and followed in public. Punk also referenced his irritation with fans asking for autographs in airports during his iconic “Pipebomb” promo in 2011.
The awkward situation for Punk revealed while he was en route to Portland, Oregon, for tonight’s episode of “WWE Raw.” This marks his return following an altercation with Drew McIntyre two weeks ago, as both wrestlers prepare for their upcoming Hell in a Cell match at WWE Bad Blood on October 5.