CM Punk vs Mickey Gall for UFC 203 Match Preview: Will CM Punk Prove Doubters Wrong? Former WWE Star Assures Victory; Predictions, TV Schedule and Streaming Details
In the WWE ring, the pro wrestler known as CM Punk called himself the Best in the World. He had competed with the most decorated superstars between ropes, challenging the likes of The Rock and defeating the likes of John Cena.
In fact, one of Punk's most memorable moments in sports entertainment was when he lashed on these two babyfaces a few years ago. He also criticized the company's image of a true wrestler, which he presumably does not fit in.
More than a year after walking out of the company, Phil "CM Punk" Brooks is making headlines in sports yet again—this time in the illustrious Octagon. Brooks' much-anticipated debut after signing with the Ultimate Fighting Championship finally takes place at UFC 203, against rookie fighter Mickey Gall.
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The clear underdog
Despite having only two professional MMA fights, Gall knows he has the advantage over the debuting Brooks. Gall had fought five amateur fights, and has a 2-0 record in the pros. His last bout against Michael Jackson ended in the first round, with Jackson tapping out of rear-naked choke.
Needless to say, Gall and his coaching staff are confident they could initiate the egotistic Brooks with a loss. One of his coaches, Brian McLaughlin, praised the young guy for his great training acumen and took a jab at Brooks. He posted that he feels guilty about what CM Punk would be put through come their main card fight.
Gall also criticized Brooks' inexperience as shown in his pre-event documentary. Though he acknowledges that his opponent would have improved by now, but he promises to expose Brooks' old habits once they step into the fight.
The confident 'victor'
Brooks, however, remains confident, albeit a bit different than what his fans were accustomed to during his stint with WWE. He appeared more humble during the early stages leading up to the fight, but did not mince words against his opponent.
Brooks had made fun of Gall's purse after the fight, saying it would be the biggest money the latter would ever get. He also said he knows he would come out the victor, gaining rigorous training with seasoned MMA fighters, including former UFC champion Anthony Pettis. He also expects the crowd to cheer for him once the fight is all over.
As for the MMA community, the reception for the former WWE superstar was divided. Alistair Overeem, who fights in the main event in the same PPV as Brooks', said the latter is mistaken in jumping in too deep and that Brooks will be in for a tough match.
MMA legend Renzo Gracie, however, spoke highly of the former Straight-Edge Society leader. He predicted Brooks will end the bout in the second round with a guillotine choke. He was also impressed by the 37-year-old rookie's output in training.
UFC 203 begins at 10 p.m./7 p.m. ETPT on DirecTV Ch. 123 (HD) and 124 (SD), and online through UFC Fight Pass.
