Ethan Page Says CM Punk’s NXT Referee Role Was the Ugliest He’s Ever Looked

Ethan Page isn’t holding back after losing his NXT Championship during WWE NXT’s debut on the CW Network. The Canadian wrestler aimed some sharp words at CM Punk, who served as the Special Guest Referee for his title defense against Trick Williams on that historic night in Chicago, Illinois.

Speaking with Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful, Page minced no words about Punk’s appearance in the striped uniform. “If you are talking about his fashion, I’ll say the ugliest he’s ever looked is in a referee shirt,” Page said, referencing Punk’s role in officiating the match that crowned Williams the new NXT Champion. While Punk raised Trick’s hand in victory, Ethan Page clearly hasn’t forgotten the sting of losing his title.

Despite the shade, Page acknowledged his respect for Punk’s work ethic, noting their shared history across multiple promotions. “He has a unique way of operating in wrestling, and I can appreciate that,” Page admitted, softening his critique of the former WWE Champion.

CM Punk’s involvement in the match was a strategic move to generate buzz around NXT’s debut on the CW Network. Set in Punk’s hometown of Chicago, the premiere was a major event for WWE as it transitioned its developmental brand to a larger audience. Punk’s controversial presence as a referee added fuel to the fire, but it didn’t sit well with Page, whose reign as champion ended that night.

Now, Page has his sights set on redemption. The self-proclaimed “All-Ego” recently qualified for the Iron Survivor Challenge at the upcoming NXT Deadline event. With no CM Punk to interfere this time, Page is determined to outlast his competitors and reestablish himself as the top dog in NXT.

Will Ethan Page reclaim his throne, or will Trick Williams’ era continue to dominate the black-and-gold brand? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—Page isn’t done talking about CM Punk just yet.