It looks like CM Punk will make UFC/MMA/fighting debut in 2016.
UFC president Dana White revealed the promotion already has a target date for the former WWE superstar’s debut.
This comes after the news that Punk, whose real name is Phil Brooks, will be matched up against 1-0 welterweight Mickey Gall he defeat Michael Jackson (no relation) at UFC 196.
White explained on Boston’s Toucher & Rich show that the promotion is targeting a June date for Brooks’ first fight, rather than a bout at the huge UFC 200 event, as many have suspected.
“The CM Punk fight is probably going to be in June. UFC 199 is what I’m thinking.”
If everything goes to plan, Punk will be 37 years old when he makes his debut, and White was refreshingly realistic about the ex-wrestler’s chances in the UFC considering how late he arrived at the party.
“The guy has never fought, he just started training and, you know, this is a tough business to get into,” he said.
“When Brock Lesnar came into the UFC, he had a serious wrestling pedigree. And not just WWE wrestling. Legit collegiate wrestling. CM Punk doesn’t have any of that, so it’s going to be tough for him.”
One thing’s for sure, when Punk does finally make that walk to the Octagon, it’s going to garner a lot of attention.
