Former WWE powerhouse Ryback has stepped forward to defend CM Punk following a wave of controversy surrounding Punk’s recent and dramatic physical transformation.
Since losing the World Heavyweight Championship to Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 42, CM Punk has remained out of action. However, he has remained in the spotlight due to a noticeably more muscular physique, sparking widespread debate among fans and peers.
The transformation has led to allegations that Punk may be utilizing performance-enhancing drugs, despite his long-standing “straight edge” lifestyle. These accusations were amplified by TNA star Ryan Nemeth, who also questioned the nature of Punk’s physical gains.
TNA wrestler Ryan Nemeth (Dolph Ziggler’s brother) who previously during his time in AEW had heat with CM Punk had some comments to say about Punk’s body transformation! pic.twitter.com/atVKIClXRt
— We R Wrestling (@WeRWrestlingg) June 4, 2026
Ryback Addresses Steroid Allegations
Responding to the speculation on X, Ryback urged the public to stop the guesswork regarding Punk’s methods, noting that only the athlete and his medical team would have the actual answers.
There’s been a lot of talk lately about CM Punk’s improved physique and the usual speculation that comes with it. Is he on steroids? TRT? HRT? The reality is nobody knows except him and the medical professionals involved, if any. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: happiness is a choice, and being angry and complaining is a choice. We all have free will.”
Ryback suggested that the changes could be the result of disciplined training and lifestyle adjustments, while also noting that medical hormone replacement should not be stigmatized.
When I look at Punk’s physique, I don’t see something that screams steroid abuse. I see a stronger, healthier version of his previous self. There are a lot of things that can create that result. Training heavier in lower rep ranges can add thickness and density to muscles. Better nutrition, better recovery, better sleep, lower stress, eliminating seed oils, and simply being more consistent can all lead to significant improvements.”
Could TRT or HRT be involved? Sure, it’s possible. But if someone has medically low testosterone or hormone levels, restoring them to healthy levels is about health and quality of life. It shouldn’t be something people are shamed for. There’s a big difference between optimizing health and abusing performance-enhancing drugs.”
Drawing from his own experience with the WWE Wellness Program, Ryback criticized the culture of body shaming within the professional wrestling industry.
Having been under the WWE Wellness Program myself, I understand the rules and requirements. Personally, I don’t believe CM Punk is abusing steroids. I believe he’s likely made positive changes, and whatever he’s doing appears to be working.”
What I find interesting is how much body shaming exists in pro wrestling. People complain about Mason Rook because of how he looks. People complain about CM Punk because he improved his physique. It seems no matter what someone does, there’s always a group looking to criticize.”
There’s been a lot of talk lately about CM Punk’s improved physique and the usual speculation that comes with it. Is he on steroids? TRT? HRT? The reality is nobody knows except him and the medical professionals involved, if any.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again:… pic.twitter.com/VOwjWzPBx6
— RYBACK (@Ryback) June 4, 2026
Despite a past where Punk once labeled him the “steroid guy,” Ryback concluded by stating he is happy to see Punk looking healthy and strong.