The time has come for former WWE champion CM Punk (Phil Brooks) to show the world that he can be as successful in the Octagon. All this happens this weekend at UFC 203 with a lot of critics sticking by their call of Mickey Gall overcoming the 37-year-old wrestler.
For Punk, his UFC debut (at 37) is more of fulfilling a dream. A win could open new windows of opportunity, including a possible shot at a major UFC title.
However, the reality of it all is that he needs to survive the challenge of a spirited and seasoned fighter in Mickey Gall. He is young and has shown how dangerous he is, more bad news for the many time WWE champion.
4-1 odds
The odds alone tell how much of an underdog Punk is against Gall. But even without that, the 24-year-old MMA fighter knows he has the advantage over a 37-year-old rookie.
While Gall doesn’t need to get that out in the open, he does have to worry about being overconfident. Punk’s erratic training and bouts with injuries have added to the doubts in the air but Gall needs put on a good show.
Punk will not lie down and die. He will give it a go and likely resort to some wrestling techniques. It goes without saying that the game plan for Brooks is to frustrate and ground Gall who has been known to be fiery.
Hence, Gall will want to avoid the grapples and holds which seem to be the only chance Punk has right now. Standing toe-to-toe will be a death sentence, as seen in Gall’s previous fights.
Some call it a show and nothing more than a money-making scheme. But the reality of it all is the blood will be shed and there is a fight happening. Will it be as called? Keep tabs this weekend for UFC 203 happening in Cleveland.