CM Punk Criticizes Wrestlepalooza Event Name
Chicago, IL – September 17, 2025 - Former professional wrestler CM Punk publicly derided the name of the upcoming Wrestlepalooza event during a recent appearance on the Armchair Expert podcast, calling it “ridiculous.” The comments, made September 16, 2025, have quickly circulated among wrestling fans and sparked debate about branding within the industry.
Punk’s critique centers on what he perceives as a lack of seriousness conveyed by the event’s moniker. Wrestlepalooza, scheduled for November 22, 2025, at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois, aims to be a large-scale wrestling convention and showcase featuring both established stars and independent talent. The event is promoted by Chicago-based company,Wrestlepalooza LLC. Punk’s remarks highlight a broader discussion about the evolving presentation of professional wrestling, balancing entertainment value with maintaining a sense of athletic legitimacy.
“It sounds like a children’s festival,” Punk stated on the podcast. “I mean, come on. ‘Wrestlepalooza’? It just doesn’t scream professional wrestling to me. It sounds like something you take your kids to with face painting and bouncy houses.”
The event organizers have not yet responded to Punk’s comments. Wrestlepalooza LLC is proceeding with ticket sales and promotional activities, anticipating a strong turnout based on the announced roster of wrestlers and attractions. The controversy surrounding the name may ultimately generate additional publicity for the event, though it remains to be seen whether it will impact attendance or overall perception.
