'The Evolution of Punk': TV Schedule, Live Stream Info and Documentary Preview

Before CM Punk steps into the Octagon for the first time, The Evolution of Punk will showcase the steps he took before that moment, as he looked to transition from WWE to UFC.

Two years ago, the former WWE star abruptly left the world he thrived in. His long marriage with the pro wrestling giant ended in bitter fashion complete with a lawsuit, potshots and scorched bridges.

Months later, he signed with UFC despite zero professional MMA experience, despite being in his mid-30s, despite being viewed as just a fake fighter walking into a place he didn't belong.

The move generated a flood of criticism. Several UFC fighters expressed doubt about whether Punk could cut it in the vicious jungle where they made their living.

Count UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping among that group.

On TSN's Off the Record with Michael Landsberg, Bisping said of Punk, "This isn't story time with mom and dad—this is the real thing. He's gonna learn pretty hard and pretty fast that this was a gigantic mistake on his behalf."

Amid that kind of carping, with the world watching on, the brash, charismatic pro wrestler began training, a novice needing to be shaped into a pro. This is where the four-part documentary series begins.

Punk, 37, is set to debut against welterweight Mickey Gall at UFC 203 in Cleveland on Sept. 10. The Evolution of Punk serves as the preface for that story, however it may unfold.

Viewing Info 

The first part of the four-episode series will air on Monday, Aug. 15 on Fox Sports 1 (FS1) at 9:30 p.m. ET. Interestingly enough, that's midway through that night's edition of WWE Raw.

FS1 will air the forthcoming episodes on Monday nights, as well. 

John Pollock of the Fight Network shared where Canadian viewers can catch the special: 

The Evolution of Punk director Rory Karpf noted he will live tweet the show on Monday:

For those without cable, a few live streaming alternatives exist. Sling TV and PlayStation Vue both offer FS1. Fans can stream the show via either service using devices such as Amazon Fire TV, Roku or Apple TV.

Preview of Part 1

The cameras started following Punk in January of last year.

The first episode of The Evolution of Punk showcases his early work in training camp. Under Duke Roufus' guidance, Punk learns from his coach the basics of the sport, from striking to defense.

Weeks into the learning process, Punk has to spar against a far more experienced fighter. The intense showdown is a violent welcome to MMA. Suddenly, Punk finds himself up against the cage and with an arm pressed against his throat. 

The Evolution of Punk also offers a look into Punk's personal life.

His wife, April Brooks, better known to WWE fans as AJ Lee, watches his journey from up close. The former Divas champ is both supportive and concerned as her husband travels down this uncertain path.

Flashes of Punk's MMA ability, his home life and his thought process fill up the screen for 20-plus minutes. 

Jeremy Botter of FloSports praised the documentary's first installment: 

A rebel, an outsider and an underdog, Punk certainly makes a fascinating subject. The Evolution of Punk will intrigue both those rooting for him to pull off the unexpected and those rooting for him to land flat on his face.