WWE superstar Seth Rollins and CM Punk are set to clash in a triple threat match at WrestleMania 41, but their rivalry extends beyond the wrestling ring. Rollins` animosity towards Punk is so intense that he`s seriously considering venturing into MMA to settle their differences in a real fight.
Before their scheduled match also involving Roman Reigns, Rollins proposed a UFC bout against Punk. This idea stems from Punk`s previous, albeit unsuccessful, stint in MMA a few years ago.
CM Punk`s UFC record stands at 0-1 with one no contest. Although he lost both of his fights, his defeat against Mike Jackson was overturned due to Jackson testing positive for marijuana.
“Absolutely, I would fight him,” Rollins stated on Robert Griffin III’s podcast regarding Punk. He clarified he wouldn`t instigate a backstage brawl but is open to a sanctioned UFC fight if Dana White is interested. Rollins suggested a matchup between two non-UFC fighters, himself and Punk, on a UFC card.
Rollins admitted this might be his only MMA fight, acknowledging he would be outmatched against seasoned fighters in his weight class. However, he directly appealed to Dana White, saying, “Dana, if you want to make money, book it, brother.”
While Punk has a background in Brazilian jiu-jitsu from his cross-training during his wrestling career, Rollins lacks formal martial arts training, having focused on wrestling since his teenage years.
This lack of MMA experience doesn`t deter Rollins, who has been vocal about his negative feelings towards Punk since Punk`s unexpected return to WWE in 2023 after a long absence.
Rollins has strongly criticized Punk, using strong words to describe him and his motives. He believes Punk`s actions are self-serving rather than for the betterment of the wrestling industry, despite Punk`s claims.
Despite the unlikely nature of UFC booking the fight given Punk`s previous MMA performances, Rollins recognizes the potential for significant hype and financial success, especially with both UFC and WWE now under the same ownership.
“Give me a few months to train,” Rollins said, indicating he`d need a training camp to prepare. “But I think I could handle myself. With TKO owning both companies, it could be a first.”
