While it’s highly unlikely that CM Punk will ever compete in the UFC again, “The Straight Edge Superstar” still has ties with the promotion. This weekend, reporter Aaron Bronsteter took to Twitter to announce that Punk is still being tested by USADA — which is responsible for drug testing UFC fighters — along with a host of other competitors.
“Recently tested by USADA: CM Punk, TJ Dillashaw, Nick Diaz, Alexander Gustafsson, John Hathaway, Mike Jackson, William Knight. Most samples submitted to USADA in 2020: Diego Sanchez (5), Aleksa Camur, Randy Costa, Grant Dawson, Jon Jones, Sean O’Malley, Rodrigo Vargas (4).”
Punk has not competed in any mixed martial arts fights since he lost his last UFC match to Mike Jackson in 2018, which added to his poor record in the company. As documented by MMA Junkie , UFC President Dana White said that CM Punk will never compete in a UFC octagon again. However, the latest update suggests that the pro wrestler is keeping his options open for the time being — just like last year .
Punk’s UFC career was shrouded in controversy, as some critics believed that he did not earn his spot. Before joining the company, he had no mixed martial arts experience. However, it is well known that Punk made a name for himself as a pro wrestler and that he is friends with White.
As of this writing, Punk’s career in the octagon remains uncertain. However, the former WWE World Champion is also affiliated with UFC through the Cage Fury Fighting Championships promotion, which airs its events on the company’s Fight Pass streaming service. While Punk might not be fighting professionally at the moment, he still appears to be thoroughly invested in the sport.
HE’S BACK!
After 21 months off, @CMPunk makes the walk. #UFC225 pic.twitter.com/7SRq5tD3p3
— UFC (@ufc) June 10, 2018
In recent years, Punk appears to have found his calling as a sports commentator and analyst. In addition to his work in MMA, the superstar is also a pundit for WWE Backstage , which sees him comment on company storylines and matches. His return to wrestling in November shocked the world, and many fans are hopeful that he will return to the ring down the line.
Although Punk hasn’t ruled out a possible return to wrestling, he has stated on numerous occasions that he is open to more fights in the octagon as well. However, he has also been realistic about the chances of that happening again, accepting the fact that he might not have a future in UFC.
Of course, the UFC isn’t the only outlet for MMA fighters, so Punk could potentially end up with another organization somewhere down the line.
