Daniel Cormier, Robbie Lawler Reaching Out to Train with CM Punk
The UFC's signing of WWE star Phil Brooks, better known as CM Punk, easily ranks among the biggest stories of the year in mixed martial arts. However, there is still a lot up in the air regarding his MMA debut, including what gym will bring aboard "The Best in the World."
Well, if Twitter is any indication, the race is on.
Numerous fighters and coaches reached out to the professional wrestler, angling to have him join their gym's fight team. That list includes light heavyweight title contender Daniel Cormier, new UFC welterweight champion Robbie Lawler, Tyron Woodley and more.
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". @CMPunk we've done it before with @herschelwalker (2-0), @akahq is your home. No recruiting pitch needed. I will see u soon. DC
— Daniel Cormier (@dc_mma) December 9, 2014"
"Hey .@cmpunk everyone doubted me too. I moved down to @americantopteam and proved them wrong. Come here and do the same
— robbie lawler (@Ruthless_RL) December 9, 2014"
"@Ruthless_RL @CMPunk @AmericanTopTeam not a bad idea! I'm down to help out! pic.twitter.com/amRs7t23Tu
— Tyron T-Wood Woodley (@TWooodley) December 9, 2014"
It isn't just fighters from American Top Team and the American Kickboxing Academy who are angling for the straight-edge superstar. Speaking with MMAFighting.com's Ariel Helwani, he discussed Team Curran (which is based out of his hometown of Chicago) and Roufusport (which is located in Milwaukee, near his current residence). He also revealed that, regardless of where he winds up training, he will want to have his current Brazilian jiu-jitsu trainer, Rener Gracie, available and able to accompany him on fight night.
When it comes to MMA, Brooks is essentially a clean slate. While many professional wrestlers, from Brock Lesnar to Bobby Lashley on down to Jack Swagger, all own legitimate amateur wrestling experience, Brooks has never actually competed in combat sports. That has many questioning what, if anything, can be expected of the 36-year-old.
Where he trains is not the only unknown when it comes to Brooks. There is currently no timetable for his UFC debut, and it is unknown who his opponent may be. Stick with Bleacher Report for more details as they become available.
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