By FCF Staff

The UFC made headlines this weekend by announcing it’s signed Phil “CM Punk” Brooks, but unlike his pro-wrestling counterpart Brock Lesnar, the aspiring fighter won’t face an established vet right out of the gate.

Lesnar made his way to the UFC in 2008, having already recorded one pro, MMA victory, and fought former heavyweight champ Frank Mir in his Octagon debut. Well, while speaking to the media this past weekend, UFC President Dana White said CM Punk will fight an opponent with far less credentials (quote via ESPN.com):

“He wanted to fight here,” White said. “He wanted to give it a shot, so we gave him an opportunity. It’s not like Brock Lesnar. We’re not going to throw the kitchen sink at him. Lesnar had a wrestling background. [CM Punk] is going to fight a guy who is 1-0, 1-1, 2-1 — something like that.”

Brooks signing was welcomed by many fighters and fans, however, it has also been heavily criticized by some, since the wrestler has never fought.

The 36 year-old has long been one of the biggest and most respected names in professional wrestling.