WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi addressed recent comments made by Kevin Nash regarding WWE World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk during the latest episode of the Rikishi Fatu Off The Top Podcast. Nash recently criticized Punk on his own platform, suggesting the champion looked “sluggish” and “old,” and questioned Punk’s decision to wear a T-shirt during television appearances.
Co-host TMD brought the topic to the table, asking Rikishi for his perspective on Nash’s assessment that Punk might need to “call it a day.” Rikishi, who stated he is friends with both Nash and Punk, offered a defense of the current champion based on his standing in the company and the prerogatives that come with holding the title.
“I think CM Punk is CM Punk,” Rikishi stated. “There is only one CM Punk. There is only one Kevin Nash. I mean, at the time right now, this is CM Punk’s time.”
Rikishi dismissed the criticism regarding Punk’s ring attire, arguing that as the champion, Punk has the authority to present himself in whatever manner he chooses. He emphasized that the company’s support of Punk is the most relevant factor in the situation.
“So what CM Punk does? That is the champ. Can do whatever you want to do, sir,” Rikishi said. “Obviously the company believes in him. He has some value to the company.”
The conversation referenced the long-standing history between Nash and Punk, dating back to their on-screen interactions in 2011 where similar insults were exchanged. Rikishi suggested that focusing on past conflicts is unnecessary and reaffirmed his support for Punk’s current run.
“What happened back that way then, we are not even paying attention,” Rikishi said. “Kevin is a good friend of mine. CM Punk is a good friend of mine. I just believe that, when it is a person’s time, let them do them. Wear a T-shirt, or come out with a gold chain rope, or whatever the case it may be. It is what it is.”
Rikishi also speculated that Nash’s comments were likely not intended to cause genuine harm, but rather to generate discussion within the wrestling community. “I hope… I am sure Kevin didn’t mean anything bad about it,” Rikishi said. “Who knows, this is probably something just for people to talk about. Here we are talking about it.”
Following his answer, Rikishi noted the unscripted nature of the podcast, realizing that by responding to the question, he had participated in the news cycle surrounding the two stars. “I brought it up. You ain’t gonna hear me talk about it bad to say about nobody,” he said. “See how I just realized when he is asking me these questions, this is unscripted, right? This is all unscripted. So I never know what Joey is gonna ask me.”
The segment concluded with Rikishi maintaining a neutral position, validating Punk’s status as champion while avoiding a direct condemnation of Nash’s remarks.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit Rikishi Fatu Off The Top with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
