CM Punk's recent physical transformation has sparked plenty of discussion online, with some fans questioning how the WWE star has added more muscle while becoming noticeably leaner. His trainer, Jay Ferruggia, has now addressed those claims directly and offered his explanation for Punk's dramatic change.
"The Best in the World" began working with Ferruggia in the weeks leading up to WrestleMania 42. Since then, the 47-year-old has followed a demanding routine focused on training, nutrition and recovery.
Ferruggia pushed back against the steroid speculation in a video posted to Instagram. He argued that Punk's current physique is the result of the work he has put in rather than a shortcut.
“CM Punk is on steroids — or so says the weak minded lazy internet. CM Punk is working his a*s off. From day one when he reached out to me, he has done every single thing that I’ve asked him to do," said Jay Ferruggia.
The trainer then detailed just how closely Punk has followed the program they established together. According to Ferruggia, Punk continues to check in with him every day, even while on vacation in Hawaii.
"He’s on vacation in Hawaii checking in with me every single day. Sending me pictures, sending me his meals, his macros, his weight, his temperature after meals."
Ferruggia also said Punk has been meticulous about his recovery away from the gym. That includes getting enough sleep, taking naps, getting morning sunlight and following the supplement routine provided by his trainer.
The coach added that Punk has not been cutting corners with his workouts either. He claimed the Undisputed WWE Champion has not missed a session, regularly completes his cardio and has even gone beyond what he has been asked to do.
Ferruggia also pointed to changes in Punk's diet and training as factors behind his appearance. He said Punk has eliminated unhealthy foods, changed the way he trains and become leaner, which can make a physique appear more muscular.
"He’s gotten significantly leaner, when you get leaner, you look bigger. He’s training in a different way," Ferruggia explained.
The trainer went on to compare Punk's recent progress to what someone might experience early in a training program, describing it as “almost newbie gains.” He acknowledged that the results have surprised him but said Punk's daily habits explain the transformation.
Ferruggia also questioned the reliability of some of the images circulating online, claiming that some are AI-generated while others were taken under favorable gym lighting.
"Honestly, he’s making almost newbie gains. It’s surprising me but I know what’s going on. I know all the things he’s doing. I’m with him, I spend time with him, I talk to him every single day. Just because someone’s getting somewhere and accomplishing something that you can’t, that doesn’t mean they’re taking shortcuts and cheating. You are just lazy.” [H/T Fightful]
The comments came during one of the biggest stretches of CM Punk's WWE career since his return. He came back following a two-and-a-half-month absence after WrestleMania 42 and has since established himself as the company's Undisputed WWE Champion.
CM Punk Has Kevin Owens Waiting for His Next Title Defense
(Photo by Rich Freeda/WWE via Getty Images)
"The Second City Saint" captured the Undisputed WWE Championship by defeating Sami Zayn on the July 6 episode of RAW in Chicago. He then put the championship on the line against Cody Rhodes at SummerSlam on August 1.
The title match ended with Punk retaining after Randy Orton made his return and struck "The American Nightmare" with an RKO. That result kept the championship around Punk's waist while also setting up the next challenger.
Kevin Owens earned that title shot by winning a Fatal Four-Way match at SummerSlam Night Two. He now stands as the No. 1 contender, putting him next in line for a shot at Punk's championship. The two will collide on the August 21, 2026 episode of SmackDown in Toronto, Canada.
It will be interesting to see if "The Prizefighter" can beat "The Best in the World" and win the WWE Title.
