34-year-old WWE Superstar to make surprise UFC debut following recent comments? Analyzing the chances
The WWE is the dream for most pro wrestlers, but there are times when that dream does not live up to the mark. More often than not, when this proves to be the case, we have seen disgruntled superstars jump ship. Usually, promotions like AEW, TNA, and NJPW are their preferred destinations. However, could we see a change in this trend? Could we see a 34-year-old superstar who recently vented his frustrations, making a surprise debut in the UFC?
Since 2023, the WWE and UFC have operated as sister promotions under TKO Group Holdings. In recent times, the two companies have collaborated on various occasions, including guest appearances at their respective events. However, it has been some time since a UFC fighter competed in a ring or a WWE Superstar entered the octagon. This might be set to change soon, as 34-year-old Montez Ford is rumored to be considering a switch.
Recently, Ford opened up about his booking with the Stamford-based promotion. Frustrated with how things were going, he spoke to the Daily Mail about making adjustments, and how there were things he wished to do before his body went past his athletic prime. Now, these statements were likely made concerning the recent mediocrity he and Angelo Dawkins have felt on SmackDown, but it could also be a nod to his aspirations of one day fighting in the UFC.
His wife, fellow WWE star Bianca Belair may not be happy about it, but Ford has reportedly talked to Nick Khan about a potential crossover, so anything is possible. But, as things stand, this is nothing more than mere speculation.
Ford will be following in the footsteps of other WWE Superstars if he joins the UFC
Montez Ford is not the first WWE Superstar to express curiosity in the UFC, and he probably won't be the last. Many pro wrestlers, mostly those with ties to Vince McMahon and Triple H, have attempted to make a name for themselves in the world of Mixed Martial Arts. If Ford decides to switch from wrestling to MMA, he would be continuing a trend set by others before him.
When reflecting on the past, the names that stand out the most are CM Punk and Brock Lesnar. Bobby Lashley, who recently appeared in AEW has also had stints with various promotions. Additionally, Ronda Rousey and Matt Riddle, who began their careers in the octagon, should not be overlooked as two of the biggest names to trade grappling gloves for wrestling gear.
The point is, that such a move is not foreign to a professional wrestler. Should Ford make the decision to give the UFC a shot, there are plenty of people he can reach out to for advice.
