Ryback Says CM Punk’s Jacked Physique Does Not ‘Scream Steroid Abuse’

Former WWE World Champion CM Punk may not be active on weekly programming currently, but he is still making headlines. Recently, a video of Punk looking absolutely jacked during a workout session went viral on social media.

Though Punk prides himself on being “straight edge,” his jacked physique has led many to speculate whether the former World Heavyweight Champion has taken steroids to be in such great shape. TNA star Ryan Nemeth seemingly accused Punk of taking steroids in a recent social media post.

However, Ryback has now come to the defense of his longtime rival. The former WWE Superstar recently took to X to share a post and video in which he said that Punk’s physique doesn’t “scream steroid abuse.” In fact, he now sees a “stronger and healthier” version of Punk than before. As far as potential Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) or Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is concerned, Ryback didn’t rule it out, but the veteran also added that one should not be shamed for optimizing their health and quality of life.

CM Punk once famously called Ryback the “steroid guy,” and the former WWE Superstar hopes that the Chicago native will understand that it was never the right label for him. He also noted the prevalent body shaming in the pro wrestling world. Here’s what Ryback said:

On the Body Transformation of CM Punk

“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.

“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. 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.”

On the Rampant Body Shaming in the Pro Wrestling World

“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. Personally, I’m happy to see him looking healthy and strong. And maybe now he understands why the term ‘steroid guy’ was never the right label for someone like me. I’ve been against steroid abuse since I was very young, but I’ve always been for optimal health and becoming the best version of ourselves. And that’s the last bite. Feed Me More!”

CM Punk has been absent from WWE TV since the RAW after WrestleMania 42. He lost the World Heavyweight Championship to Roman Reigns in the main event of WrestleMania 42 Night Two.

Check out Ryback’s post below:

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