CM Punk gets next opponent, faces Mike Jackson in Chicago
Both Mike Jackson and CM Punk had very rough outings in their UFC octagon debuts but it appears that both competitors will now have an equal opportunity for redemption as they face off against one another in Chicago.
UFC President Dana White made the announcement to TMZ that Punk, whose real name is Phil Brooks will compete against Jackson at UFC 225 on June 9 at the United Center.
“That’s the fight,” White said.
Jackson, an MMA journalist who also competes professionally in mixed martial arts was submitted by Mickey Gall in his UFC debut. The fight lasted just 45 seconds in February 2016.
Gall then earned the opportunity to face MMA newcomer and former WWE champion CM Punk in September 2016. Gall submitted him in the first round as well.
Earlier this month Jackson told MMA Junkie Radio, “I’m close personal friends with several guys at the top of the UFC, including one of the matchmakers, Mick Maynard,” Jackson said. “Without giving too much away, (Maynard) gives me the wink-wink and says, ‘Be patient. We’ll see what happens.”
The latest UFC 225 card includes:
UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker vs. Yoel Romero – for middleweight title
Carla Esparza vs. Claudia Gadelha
Joseph Benavidez vs. Sergio Pettis
Curtis Blaydes vs. Alistair Overeem
Rashad Evans vs. Anthony Smith
Rashad Coulter vs. Allen Crowder
Andrei Arlovski vs. Tai Tuivasa
Dan Ige vs. Mike Santiago
CM Punk vs. Mike Jackson
