Top 8 UFC fighters who could thrive in WWE
The worlds of mixed martial arts and professional wrestling have always shared a unique synergy. Both are forms of entertainment that demand a perfect blend of athleticism, showmanship, and charisma. Over the years, several UFC fighters have made successful transitions to WWE, capturing the hearts of wrestling fans around the globe. As the lines between these two worlds continue to blur, here are eight UFC fighters who could thrive in WWE.
8. Paddy Pimblett:
Paddy Pimblett, the rising star in the UFC, has captured the hearts of fans since his debut last September. His recent bout in London's O2 Arena showcased his immense popularity, with the crowd passionately chanting his nickname, "Paddy, The Baddy." Pimblett's charisma makes him a potential powerhouse for both the UFC and even WWE. While his weight fluctuations pose a challenge, his ability to engage fans could make him a standout superstar in the wrestling world.
7. Miesha Tate:
Miesha Tate, a trailblazer in women's MMA since her days in Strikeforce, could bring immense value to WWE's women's division. Nicknamed 'Cupcake,' Tate's marketability, championship history, managerial experience with ONE Championship, and eloquence make her an ideal addition. A potential feud with former MMA rival Ronda Rousey would create instant buzz, drawing from their intense history. Tate herself expressed willingness to face Rousey in WWE, making her transition into the wrestling world highly anticipated.
6. Conor McGregor:
Conor McGregor, the former UFC double champion, could seamlessly transition into professional wrestling, particularly WWE. His exceptional self-promotion skills could make him a valuable asset, aligning with WWE's history of featuring top athletes. McGregor's ability to transcend MMA could lead to a lucrative deal. WWE has successfully integrated fighters like Tyson, Mayweather, Fury, and Rousey into significant storylines, maximizing their popularity. Imagining McGregor's role as a guest referee or enforcer in marquee matches adds intrigue, showcasing his potential impact in the wrestling world.
5. Colby Covington:
Colby Covington, the former UFC title contender, has unmistakably adopted a pro-wrestling-style persona, portraying a heel character since his fight with Rafael dos Anjos. He fearlessly delves into controversial topics, sparking altercations beyond the octagon. Covington's natural fit in WWE as a heel is evident, given his confrontational approach. Under Vince McMahon's guidance, he could excel in this role, potentially making a seamless transition to the world of professional wrestling.
4. Israel Adesanya:
Israel Adesanya, the former middleweight champion of the UFC, is a rising star that WWE should closely monitor. Recently securing a lucrative contract extension, 'The Last Stylebender' is renowned for his charisma and exceptional pound-for-pound skills. His flashy fighting style and ability to sell fights have made him a fan favorite. Adesanya's WWE fandom became evident after his victory over Robert Whittaker, where he playfully referenced WWE Hall of Famer Booker T, showcasing his potential appeal in the wrestling world.
3. Julianna Peña:
Among the talented women in UFC, Julianna Peña appears poised for a smooth transition into WWE. Since her UFC debut in 2013, Peña gained prominence by winning The Ultimate Fighter. Her career highlight came in 2021 when she upset Amanda Nunes, although she lost the immediate rematch. With Nunes retired, Peña eyes the vacant title. Her charisma, confidence, and enthusiasm for wrestling were evident at WrestleMania, hinting at her potential success as a pro wrestler.
2. Derrick Lewis:
Derrick Lewis, the prolific UFC heavyweight contender, may not be a big talker, but his fans adore his every word. Renowned for the most knockout wins in UFC history, Lewis is also known for his memorable moments, like stripping down in the Octagon after a swift victory. His unique and amusing antics have endeared him to fans. With his physical prowess and charismatic persona, he possesses the qualities to captivate WWE audiences and potentially become a wrestling sensation.
1. Jiri Prochazka:
Jiri Prochazka, the former light heavyweight champion from the Rizin Fighting Federation, stands out in this list. Unlike the outspoken figures like McGregor and Covington, Prochazka's inclusion might surprise some. The Czech knockout artist, with his unique persona rooted in samurai culture and unconventional training methods, has won fan admiration. Despite recovering from a shoulder injury, his potential transition to professional wrestling after his MMA career ends could bring a fresh and intriguing perspective to the wrestling world.
Conclusion
The crossover between UFC and WWE continues to create thrilling moments for fans of both sports. These UFC fighters, with their unique skills, personalities, and fighting spirit, have the potential to thrive in the world of professional wrestling. As the boundaries between MMA and WWE blur further, we can expect more exciting transitions and unforgettable moments from these incredible athletes.