Dana White On CM Punk: He’s Committed To This Thing, He’s A Stud
When the UFC shockingly signed former WWE champion Phillip “CM Punk” Brooks a few months back, the reactions from fans, fighters, and media members, were extremely mixed, with a lot of the reactions being negative. Many fighters took it as a joke, bashing Punk on twitter, while many fans and media members believed it was just a publicity stunt, and a way for the UFC to make a few extra bucks.
However, it seems as if the former pro wrestler isn’t taking it as a joke, at least according to UFC president Dana White. “Punk” made it clear months back that he would be doing his training at the famed Roufusport, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin led by highly-touted trainer Duke Roufus and home to UFC stars Anthony “Showtime” Pettis, and Tyron “The Chosen One” Woodley”.
Speaking to TMZ earlier this week, White stated that Brooks actually packed up his bags and moved to Milwaukee full time. The UFC president said that the former wrestler is completely committed to mixed martial arts (MMA), and White even called Brooks a stud:
“First of all, let me start by saying this: the respect that this guy has earned from his team, his coaches…he’s a dog, man,” Dana said. “He actually just moved to Milwaukee so he can be closer to training. He’s committed to this thing, the guy’s an absolute stud and a joy to work with. He’s looking phenomenal. “
However, just because he looks “phenomenal” doesn’t mean he’ll be fighting any time soon. “Punk” has often stated that he is not going to fight until he feels ready, and White said that he’s thinking early next year for a debut, but it’s ultimately up to Brooks himself:
“His deal is, he can call me and when he’s ready to fight, he calls me and it’s on man. I’m thinking early next year.”
As far as an opponent, the UFC has previously stated that they will match Brooks up with a rather inexperienced fighter, so it will be interesting to see what they come up with.
Do you see “Punk” having any success in the Octagon, or will it turn out to be a joke as many believe? At the end of the day, can you really bash a man for following his dreams? However, it may have been a good idea to get some fight experience before heading to the big show..
