Punk vs. Cena Confirmed for 2025 Saudi Show
Long-Planned Match Set to Headline Night of Champions
A highly anticipated clash between wrestling icons CM Punk and John Cena is officially slated for WWE Night of Champions 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The match, for the Undisputed WWE Championship, has been in the works for months, despite Punk’s previous reservations about performing in the region.
Months in the Making
According to reports, WWE had been planning for Punk’s participation in the Saudi event well in advance. Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio revealed the initial plans were in place long ago, even undergoing a brief period of uncertainty.
“He was going months ago,”
—Dave Meltzer, Wrestling Observer Radio
Meltzer explained that Punk was initially included in promotional material before being temporarily removed, leading to speculation about his involvement. However, sources confirmed he remained committed to the event. “I asked about it when the event was first being discussed. He was originally in the promo package and later removed, so I asked if that meant he was off the show. I was told, ‘Nope, he’s going.’ So it’s been known for months, probably all along, that he was part of the plan.”
The move comes as wrestling events continue to generate significant revenue. In 2023, the global professional wrestling market was valued at approximately $1.68 billion and is projected to reach $2.25 billion by 2029, according to a report by Fortune Business Insights (Fortune Business Insights).
Past Controversies and Reconciliation
This confirmation arrives despite Punk’s prior criticism of WWE’s Saudi Arabia events, including a strongly worded online exchange with The Miz. Responding to a taunt, Punk posted a now-deleted tweet stating, “Go suck a blood money covered d*ck in Saudi Arabia you f***ing dork.”
The two have since reportedly reconciled after a backstage encounter at WWE RAW in 2023.
WWE Night of Champions 2025 will be held on Saturday, June 28, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh. Fans in the United States can stream the event live on Peacock, while international viewers can watch on Netflix.
The upcoming match represents a significant moment for both wrestlers and for WWE, potentially drawing a large audience and generating substantial buzz around the event.
