CM Punk is headed to the Octagon, as the UFC announced Saturday they’ve signed the former WWE superstar.
“My professional wrestling days are over,” Punk, whose real name is Phil Brooks, told Joe Rogan during the UFC 181 broadcast. “This is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time.”
Although he has never fought professionally in mixed martial arts, the 36-year-old has often expressed a desire to compete. His martial arts background includes a history in kempo karate and several years of Brazilian jiu-jitsu training under Rener Gracie.
“I felt like it was now or never. I have a limited window most fighters don’t have. I’m either here to win or get my ass kicked,” Punk said before adding this won’t be a one-time event. “This is my new career. I’m going to go full steam ahead, all systems go.”
Punk wouldn’t be the first professional wrestler to transition into MMA and compete in the UFC. Brock Lesnar fought seven times under the UFC banner from 2008-2011, winning the heavyweight title when he knocked out Randy Couture at UFC 91.
The Chicago native is expected to debut sometime in 2015, however a date and opponent have yet to be determined. Punk said he plans on competing in the middleweight division (185 pounds), but could potentially eye the welterweight division (170 pounds).
“I have nothing but respect for everybody here at the UFC, everybody who steps in the Octagon to fight,” he said. “And when it’s all said and done, when I’m finished, everybody’s going to have to respect me because I have come here to fight.”
