The March 16 episode of WWE RAW in San Antonio featured a heated exchange between CM Punk and Roman Reigns — but one unexpected name briefly entered the conversation, adding an extra layer to an already personal rivalry.
As tensions continued to rise ahead of WrestleMania 42, Punk and Reigns traded sharp words throughout a closing segment that leaned heavily into personal jabs and legacy-driven stakes.
However, it was one particular line from Punk that stood out — and it didn’t just target his opponent.
CM Punk Name-Drops Samoa Joe During Heated Roman Reigns Exchange
During the segment, the Royal Rumble winner addressed CM Punk, referring to him by his real name, Phil, framing it as an attempted insult. The WWE World Heavyweight Champion dismissed the tactic, stating plainly, “My friends and family call me Phil.”
He then turned the tables — and took a verbal swing with a subtle twist. Punk noted that while he could call Reigns “Joe,” he wouldn’t, adding, “I’d call you Joe but that’d be insulting a REAL Samoan that I respect.”
The line was a clear reference to Samoa Joe, currently signed to AEW and a former WWE star. In wrestling terms, it was less of a cheap pop and more of a calculated jab — one that landed without needing a referee’s count.
The exchange was part of a broader confrontation that revisited the Champion’s earlier remarks about Reigns’ late father, Sika. CM Punk doubled down on his previous comments, while Reigns fired back by questioning Punk’s relevance and suggesting he hasn’t headlined major shows recently.
Their verbal clash blurred the line between personal and professional — a “worked shoot” feel that continues to define the build to their WrestleMania match for the World Heavyweight Championship.
Elsewhere in the show, Roman Reigns also addressed his role outside the ring, describing his legacy as being a “full-time father,” contrasting with past generations.
With WrestleMania approaching, the rivalry between Punk and Reigns is clearly escalating.
READ MORE: Roman Reigns Urges The Bloodline To Be ‘Offended’ by CM Punk’s Comment on WWE RAW
