White also mentioned that they are not exactly looking to rush him to the top as they did with Brock Lesnar, likely because of the fact Punk's MMA background is lacking in comparison given Lesnar's extensive amateur wrestling background. Punk is no stranger to the MMA world though, and has been training in recent years with the legendary Gracie jiu-jitsu family. Either way, having Punk in the Octagon is bound to generate some interest, both for the Punk fans who want to see him succeed, and for the Punk critics who want to see him demolished.
One can only imagine Vince McMahon's reaction to hearing this news. It was bad enough as is having had one of his biggest stars walk out on the company in the midst of one of the more star deprived eras of wrestling. But now, that same star is entering a promotion that Vince likely sees as competition for a portion of his target audience, regardless of whether or not Vince will admit that view himself.
