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In between MMA training sessions, C.M. Punk talked to the Associated Press about the build-up to his potential UFC debut fight mid-way through 2016.
Punk also continued his post-WWE policy of dumping on his former profession, pro wrestling.
“This is new to me,” Punk told AP reporter Dan Gelston of his MMA training. “It’s not the same old boring (stuff) that I’ve been doing for God knows how long. People are talking about it. Some people are upset, some people love it, some people think it’s inspirational. I’m pretty sure everybody has an opinion on it.”
Punk added that he’s not looking for a one-off fight or a publicity match, but is approaching the transition to UFC as a legitimate career move.
“I didn’t move up to Milwaukee, I’m not training my ass off and getting hurt, going back into the gym just so I can one-and-done it,” Punk said. “This is what I do now.”
As for his potential first opponent, Mickey Gall, who began talking trash this month, Punk welcomed the talk. But, if Gall does not win a fight at UFC 196 in February, then Punk will be without an opponent.
The target for Punk’s debut fight is UFC 199, one short of the milestone UFC 200 event, which Punk understands after talking to UFC president Dana White.
“There’s part of me that cares because UFC 200 is going to be a big deal,” Punk said. “I’ve spoken to Dana about it, trying to figure out what’s best for both parties. It’s just a smarter business decision.”
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No wonder Punk played a heel so well; this guy comes off as a total creep anymore. Hello, skinny fat dude? You and your Pepsi tattoo shouldn’t be so quick to forget where you came from.
KJR: What did he say that was creepy? He did some run-of-the-mill self promotion to hype his new career. The worst he said was that he found pro wrestling “boring” after over a decade doing it.