Joe Rogan, the renowned UFC commentator, expressed surprise at the fighting abilities displayed by CM Punk during what turned out to be the final fight of his UFC career. This bout was later officially removed from Punk`s professional record.
When the UFC initially announced the signing of CM Punk in 2014, it was widely considered one of the most significant athlete acquisitions in the sport at that time. This was largely due to Punk`s immense popularity as a star in the world of professional wrestling with WWE.
Prior to Punk, the only other prominent WWE superstar who had successfully transitioned to the premier mixed martial arts promotion was Brock Lesnar, who remarkably went on to capture the UFC heavyweight championship.
Although CM Punk`s promotional debut at UFC 203 against Mickey Gall did not unfold according to plan, his second appearance in the octagon, facing Mike Jackson, saw the former WWE star catch UFC icon Joe Rogan off guard.
Joe Rogan Surprised by CM Punk in Final UFC Appearance
Despite suffering a quick and decisive loss to Gall in his debut, Punk made his return over two years later for a fight in his hometown of Chicago. He was scheduled to face Mike Jackson at UFC 225.
While Mickey Gall was primarily known for his grappling skills, Punk`s second opponent, Mike Jackson, was more recognized for his striking. This stylistic matchup potentially offered Punk a better chance to showcase his abilities.
After receiving a massive ovation from the crowd during his walkout and the ring announcements, Punk began the fight appearing relatively comfortable, much to Joe Rogan`s surprise.
“He looks calm on the feet. I like what I`m seeing, nice leg kicks by CM Punk,” Rogan commented during the early exchanges of the bout.
However, it wasn`t long before Jackson began to assert control over the fight, landing heavy strikes as Punk attempted his leg kicks.
“Listen to the crowd! They`re getting into this!” Rogan exclaimed as the Chicago audience started chanting CM Punk`s name.
“He`s tough, he has to be tough to take a fight like this on a UFC PPV, it`s crazy,” Rogan added, acknowledging Punk`s commitment.
Towards the end of the first round, Punk managed to secure a takedown on Jackson. Rogan speculated that this move might have been enough for Punk to win his first-ever round in the UFC.
Unfortunately for CM Punk and his supporters, he was largely dominated throughout the remaining two rounds. Jackson outstruck him effectively and maintained control when the fight went to the ground.
Fight Result Changed from Loss to No-Contest Years Later
Despite the seemingly one-sided loss to Mike Jackson, it was publicly announced over three years after their bout that the official result had been overturned to a `no-contest`. This change occurred because Jackson tested positive for Marijuana following the fight.
Interestingly, the UFC has since removed Marijuana from its list of prohibited substances, a rule change that came too late for fighters like Nick Diaz, who faced lengthy suspensions in the past for similar violations.
Although CM Punk had signed a multi-fight agreement with the promotion, following his defeat by Jackson, UFC President Dana White publicly advised him against competing in mixed martial arts again. Punk eventually confirmed his retirement from the sport, notifying the UFC in 2021.
