Jim Ross checked in with a blog on CM Punk’s signing with UFC, here are some highlights:
on CM Punk signing with UFC
UFC scored a walk off grand slam with @DanaWhite’s signing of former WWE superstar @CMPunk. The signing itself was a major news maker plus the ability to document Punk’s training for his first fight which is still TBA should make for great TV on Fox. Punk has long been an aficionado and student of MMA having trained in Muay Thai and Gracie Ju Jitsu. The 36 year old will likely become obsessed in his training and is used to being considered an under achiever which will serve as a motivator for the former WWE World Champion as many MMA diehards who want to see Punk get beaten to a pulp and every wrestling fan who wants to see the Chicago born fighter succeed.
I’m curious to see what camp Punk joins as that, to me, is a huge issue on how successful Punk will have a chance in becoming. Plus, there is no lock that Punk can make it successfully through a tough, organized MMA Camp.
on comparisons between Punk and Brock Lesnar
Punk, unlike Brock Lesnar, isn’t a former NCAA All American or a D1 National Champion but his heart and passion may tell another story. If UFC plays there cards strategically, Punk’s PPV debut will add greatly to any under card that is booked. The curiosity factor to invest in Punk’s first PPV will be big time. Speaking of Lesnar, Punk signing with UFC adds another wrinkle to the potential negotiations with Lesnar and UFC and/or Bellator. Interesting days lie ahead as it relates to contract negotiations. Punk signing with UFC helps Lesnar’s leverage without question.
on Punks’s ability to draw
Make no mistake about it, win or lose, Punk will sell PPV’s especially on his first one and he will be as prepared as one an possibly be in the time that he has to train between now and fight night in the Octagon. I don’t think Punk has any fear but he also is intelligent enough to realize that he’s in an up hill struggle of which he’s been before. Make no mistake, I’d bet every UFC fighter, young or old, with a pulse will be wanting to have Punks’s first fight. Bottom line, Punk on PPV equals cash.
Check out the full blog at JR’s BBQ
