The worlds of the UFC and professional wrestling frequently cross, with athletes from both fields successfully transitioning between the two. The tremendous athleticism, intriguing charm, and extravagant personalities of some of the UFC’s most significant competitors would appear to thrive in WWE.
This is something they may be expected to undertake in the coming months in light of the recent UFC-WWE merger announcement. The deal means that Endeavour Group Holdings, the owners of UFC, will control 51% of WWE. This move is seen as the clear next step to make a worldwide fighting brand that can compete with football in terms of global sports popularity.
While all of this may be important to businesspeople, we’re more interested with what the merger means for our favourite sport. We’ve compiled a list of 5 fighters who may easily transfer from UFC to WWE. Read on to find out who they are.
1. Conor McGregor
Conor McGregor, an Irish fighter and famous trash talker, is unquestionably one of the most well-known figures in not only the UFC and combat, but also in international sports in general. If anyone can effectively transition from the UFC to WWE, it’s The Notorious.
His gregarious demeanour, devastating quick wit, and celebrity status would make him the most charismatic and contentious figure in professional wrestling. In terms of fighting, no one is better qualified to make the transition from UFC to WWE than Conor McGregor. His athleticism and skill on the canvas would make him an excellent competitor.
2. Israel Adesanya
The Last Stylebender, as he is known in the UFC, is coming off another octagon victory, defeating Alex Pereira at UFC 287. That victory was a cathartic story of revenge, as the 6 foot 4 Nigerian atoned for his 2022 setback, in which Pereira defied UFC odds.
Everyone is curious about what Adesanya will do next. Will he continue in a sport where he has nothing left to prove, or will he transition to professional wrestling? The latter is probably possible, considering Adesanya has a soft place for WWE.
At UFC 276, he entered the arena like his favorite wrestler, The Undertaker. In recent interviews, he has shared how much he likes the sport.
3. Jon Jones
What about Jon Jones, one of the best fighters? Jones, widely regarded as one of the best fighters in UFC history, has dynamic striking, grappling, and a very unconventional fighting style that might propel him to success in professional wrestling.
Being able to adapt to any situation would also make him an excellent storyteller in the ring, a highly valued talent in the realm of staged fights. Jones has previously expressed his admiration for wrestlers, so any attempt to lure him to WWE would most certainly be met with enthusiasm.
4. Paddy Pimblett
Paddy Pimblett, a 28-year-old fighter from Liverpool, made his fighting debut in 2012 but did not gain popularity until late 2021, when he made his promotional debut with the UFC. Since then, Pimblett has amassed a cult following of followers in his native England and beyond.
Whereas other boxers attempt to cultivate an ultra-macho reputation, Pimblett has established a cult following with his man of the people’ image. Also, during his stint in the UFC, he proved that he is an outstanding fighter.
If WWE is looking for someone with a big personality who can stand out, Pimblett is the person to contact. But if American audiences had difficulty understanding Cheryl Cole on The X Factor, it’s uncertain how they would handle Pimblett’s strong Liverpool accent.
5. Jorge Masvidal
The WWE values personality and charisma, and Jorge Masvidal has plenty of both. Masvidal, who comes from a street fighting background, is naturally abrasive and enjoys using trash talk to get into his opponents’ heads.
In the octagon, he has demonstrated an innate knack for showmanship and charisma, which would translate well to the wrestling ring. WWE organisers will undoubtedly have taken note of his star power and ability to keep spectators on the edge of their seats.