WWE Hall of Famer The Undertaker recently revealed why he admires a current WWE superstar. Considered a locker-room leader by almost every WWE superstar, getting praise from The Deadman is a huge deal.
Over the years, The Undertaker wrestled several WWE superstars and had great chemistry with his partners, from stars like Triple H, Brock Lesnar, Shawn Michaels, CM Punk, Randy Orton, and many more. Recently on his podcast, The Deadman gave huge props to none other than CM Punk for his moves in MMA.
In 2014, CM Punk left WWE after disagreements with his creative direction. Taking a huge gamble, Punk decided to pursue a career in MMA. Following his departure from WWE, CM Punk signed with the top MMA promotion, UFC, in late 2014.
Punk debuted for UFC in September of 2016, but Mickey Gall quickly defeated him by submission in the first round. Then, he fought again in June of 2018 against Mike Jackson and once again lost by unanimous decision. However, this decision was overturned after Jackson tested positive for marijuana.
CM Punk’s MMA career didn’t unfold as planned. Despite that, WWE Hall of Famer The Undertaker recently expressed great admiration for his former rival’s courage in pursuing mixed martial arts.
The Undertaker praises CM Punk for his bold move into MMA
The Undertaker recently appeared on MMA star Demetrious Johnson’s podcast. Johnson is the current ONE Flyweight Champion competing in ONE Championship. He asked The Undertaker about CM Punk’s transition into the world of MMA.
He stated, “One thing with Punk that I do respect is the fact that he tried it. He had a huge name in wrestling before he tried mixed martial arts. He had a lot to lose because [wrestling] was his money maker and then you go over [to MMA] and get your ass handed to you.”
The Hall of Famer further added, “I had a lot of respect for him and the fact that he gave it a shot. It was something he wanted to do. He did it. It didn’t work out and he’s back where he should be and everything is right in the world.”
While it’s a huge compliment for CM Punk coming from The Deadman, both men have delivered classic matches for fans. Notably their classic bout at WrestleMania 29 and their Hell in a Cell match in 2009.
