5 Reasons why CM Punk deserves respect despite not being your 'average MMA' fighter

#1 He got a whole generation of WWE fans turn to MMA

Best in the world, indeed

Popular as he’s always been, both inside and outside the ring, Punk’s ingress into the world of Ultimate Fighting Championship meant only one thing: more popularity for the sport!

Punk’s change in direction in life has got a whole new breed of pro-wrestling fans appreciate the sport of mixed martial arts. While Brock Lesnar was instrumental in getting many pro-wrestling aficionados aboard the UFC train, Punk’s usually charismatic style gave more of an upthrust to the equation. Contrary to his comments, Dana White would make more money by allowing Punk to fight inside the octagon for one more time. More fans = more revenue!

Irrespective of whether he wins or loses his next fight (if it happens), the world owes much more to the pro-wrestling superstar who quit the WWE at his peak to turn to a pasture which wasn’t as green.