Explore the intricate relationship between mixed martial arts (MMA) and professional wrestling. Discover how these two sports have influenced and shaped each other over the years.
| Key Points |
|---|
| MMA and professional wrestling have a long-standing connection. |
| Phil "CM Punk" Brooks believes MMA owes its existence to professional wrestling. |
| Fighters like Ken Shamrock and Kurt Angle have had successful careers in both sports. |
| The UFC and WWE are now under the same ownership. |
| Many MMA stars would have pursued professional wrestling if MMA hadn’t been an option. |
| MMA represents the ultimate test of human strength and determination. |
Mixed martial arts (MMA) and professional wrestling have had a long-standing connection throughout their histories. While they may seem like distinct sports, there have been numerous instances of crossover between the two. One notable example is Phil "CM Punk" Brooks, a former WWE champion who made his debut in the UFC in 2016. Despite his lack of success in the Octagon, Brooks stands by his decision and believes that MMA and professional wrestling are intertwined.
According to Brooks, MMA owes its existence to professional wrestling. In an interview on an ESPN UFC 300 preview show, he stated, "MMA as we currently know it wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for professional wrestling." He also pointed out that many individuals who pursued professional wrestling would have chosen MMA if it had been a viable option at the time.
Brooks mentioned fighters like Ken Shamrock and Kurt Angle, who had successful careers in both professional wrestling and MMA. He speculated that if MMA had been as popular as it is today, Angle may have been scouted and drafted into the sport instead of becoming a professional wrestler.
Interestingly, the UFC and WWE are now under the same ownership as of 2024, thanks to TKO Group Holdings, Inc. While cross-promotional efforts have been limited, there have been instances of collaboration, such as UFC Lightweight contender Michael Chandler appearing on Monday Night Raw.
As Brooks watches the current stars of MMA from his position in WWE, he believes that many of them would have pursued professional wrestling if MMA hadn’t been an option. He mentioned individuals like Bo Nickal, suggesting that they would have chosen wrestling as a career path.
In Brooks’ eyes, MMA represents the ultimate test of human strength and determination. He sees it as an opportunity for individuals to push themselves to their limits and prove their capabilities.
Overall, the relationship between MMA and professional wrestling is complex and interconnected. While they may be distinct sports, they have influenced and shaped each other throughout history.
