CM Punk believes WWE would benefit from stronger communication between its backstage staff and performers, particularly in providing honest, constructive feedback.
Speaking on the What’s Your Story? with Steph McMahon podcast, CM Punk was asked what he would change about WWE. After saying he would like to see more variety and more wrestlers willing to take risks, he pointed to what he described as a lack of meaningful feedback after matches.
“I’ll say the controversial answer now. I would like to see more people be a little more serious about things,” Punk said. “And instead of happy to be here, I would like more feedback given to people coming through the curtain instead of just, ‘Yup, it’s fine.'”
Punk also criticised the growing reliance on social media as a measure of performance, arguing that wrestlers should focus on the reaction from the live crowd rather than online opinions.
“But I always say, well, get off your fing phone. You’re looking at Twitter to see how your f**king match was. Did you listen to the people? Because that’s your instant reaction. That’s your boss when you’re out there. I don’t give a sh*t what somebody on Twitter says about your match.”
The current Undisputed WWE Champion said there can often be a disconnect between the response inside the arena and reactions on social media, adding that he no longer uses X and instead spends most of his time on Instagram.
CM Punk Believes There Are Issues With WWE Talent & Backstage Staff
When asked whether the issue lies more with talent or WWE’s backstage personnel, CM Punk said responsibility falls on both sides.
“I think it can be both in some situations,” he said. “I think sometimes some people don’t want to hurt people’s feelings. So I think they need to figure out a way to communicate things.”
Punk stressed that producers and agents should provide constructive criticism, while wrestlers should remain open to learning and improving.
“I want the producers or agents to really focus on helping and giving constructive, positive feedback and showing things instead of just saying things. And I also need the talent to be sincere in wanting to get better and grow and keep an open mind.”
Reflecting on his early years in wrestling, Punk recalled repeatedly practising his striking as a teenager, adding that wrestlers who truly want to improve will always find a way, despite WWE’s reduced live-event schedule limiting opportunities for in-ring experience.
