AEW Backstage Controversy: Ryan Nemeth’s Claims Against CM Punk

Over a year after CM Punk’s dramatic exit from AEW, new allegations from former AEW talent Ryan Nemeth have reignited controversy surrounding the polarizing wrestler and the company’s handling of backstage issues. Nemeth, known for his in-ring work and outspoken personality, has filed a formal complaint alleging harassment, threats, and organizational negligence during his time in AEW.

Nemeth Details Allegations Against Punk and AEW

According to Fightful Select, Nemeth submitted a detailed timeline to AEW executives in September. The document reportedly accuses CM Punk of harassment and threats while claiming AEW management failed to act on the incidents. Nemeth’s complaint includes evidence such as emails, text messages, and call logs and also alleges that Punk held an undisclosed executive position within the company.

Nemeth and Punk famously clashed after Punk’s AEW return in June 2023, stemming from a tweet by Nemeth that Punk confronted him about. Nemeth claims the confrontation escalated into threats and that he had previously raised concerns with then-AEW legal head Megha Parekh about potential targeting by Punk. Notably, Nemeth alleges that key figures like Tony Schiavone, Jon Moxley, and The Young Bucks were supportive of him during this time, but he was left off AEW programming for months following the incident.

“Silent Firing” and Anti-Punk Promo Controversy

Nemeth alleges he was unofficially blacklisted after his run-in with Punk, despite assurances from Parekh that his job was secure. In August, Nemeth was scheduled for a “Collision” taping but was pulled from the show at Punk’s request. Shortly after, Nemeth was flown to an AEW Dynamite event, where he claims the company pressured him to deliver an anti-Punk promo—a move he interpreted as AEW deflecting the situation rather than addressing it.

Complicating matters, Parekh’s departure from AEW left Nemeth communicating with other company officials, including Chris Peck and Margaret Stalvey. Nemeth later became a part of the investigation into Punk’s infamous altercation with Jack Perry at All Out 2023. However, he felt his issues with Punk were sidelined in favor of broader discussions about Punk’s future in AEW.

The Fallout and AEW’s Silence

Nemeth’s last AEW match took place in November 2023, coinciding with CM Punk’s return to WWE. Although Nemeth’s AEW contract extends into 2024, he claims he was effectively frozen out of the company. He alleges AEW owner Tony Khan and others viewed him as a scapegoat for Punk’s firing. Attempts to negotiate a settlement, reportedly involving a non-disclosure agreement, fell through after the offer was abruptly rescinded.

In his complaint, Nemeth has sought financial compensation and policy changes within AEW, citing discussions with mental health professionals to underscore the severity of the situation. While Nemeth acknowledges Punk’s role in his experience, he places significant blame on AEW executives like Chris Peck, accusing them of failing to take his concerns seriously.

Where Things Stand

Reports suggest Nemeth met with AEW leadership months ago, including a conversation with Tony Khan where the possibility of a return was raised. However, Nemeth expressed no interest in rejoining the company. AEW has yet to comment publicly on the allegations.

For now, Ryan Nemeth’s accusations cast a shadow on AEW’s locker room culture and management practices. While Punk’s departure and return to WWE seemed to close one chapter, Nemeth’s claims suggest unresolved issues that AEW may need to address to maintain a healthy backstage environment.