WWE NXT commentator Booker T recently addressed speculations about a confrontation with CM Punk, clarifying his stance. On his Hall of Fame podcast, Booker had previously mentioned a tense encounter with Punk during an NXT taping, suggesting a possible altercation. Despite being injured, Punk was seen at the WWE NXT taping and reportedly remained solitary. Given Punk’s past backstage incidents, these remarks quickly led to speculation.
However, on a recent episode of his podcast, Booker T revealed the truth behind the story. He admitted that his earlier claims about a run-in with Punk were not entirely accurate and were meant to entertain fans. He revealed, “I’m trying to entertain my fans… Because that story, that 40-second story that people wrote, it was clickbait, guys. Did I put it out there? Did I say it? As far as I had a beef, I was gonna run up? Yeah, I said [it] But I’m entertaining you guys. Entertaining. Just playing around.”
Booker T’s CM Punk comments caused backstage tension
Booker T’s comments about a potential altercation with CM Punk, although possibly intended for entertainment, allegedly stirred up some tension backstage within WWE.
A recent report from Fightful Select behind paywall stated that backstage sources reportedly met Booker’s claims with skepticism, as there was no prior knowledge of any actual incident before the podcast. There was surprise at Booker’s decision to make such claims without providing context, particularly given Punk’s clean record since returning to WWE. Furthermore, security personnel at the taping were not informed of any confrontation taking place. The report also highlighted a “sense of frustration” among certain backstage personnel regarding Booker’s remarks, considering Punk’s backstage history.
However, Booker T’s clarification likely brought some relief to WWE officials backstage. He explained that the comments were made for entertainment purposes.