Frank Mir is an MMA legend, having competed in the UFC for 16 years. He is a former heavyweight champion and holds the record for most submission victories in the history of the heavyweight division. He also defeated Brock Lesnar with a kneebar when Brock made his debut for UFC back in 2008. At 40, he knows his time in MMA is coming to a close, and is looking to maybe take a stab at professional wrestling as he ages. However, he doesn’t want to just waltz into one of the major companies like WWE & AEW. He appeared at GCW Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport this past April, which was a shoot fighting event consisting of mostly wrestlers. He faced another MMA legend in Dan Severn and defeated him in quick fashion. This is likely not the last we will see of Mir when it comes to wrestling.
Frank Mir On Not Wanting To Instantly Jump Into WWE
Mir appeared on the Chris Van Vliet podcast, where he spoke about pro wrestling. He spoke on how he wanted to ‘earn’ his way in pro wrestling as he trains with Austin Aries learning the ins and outs of the industry. “I was upset when CM punk got to have a UFC fight for his debut,” Mir stated. “Well if all of a sudden my first ever pro wrestling match I jumped into AEW or WWE they would say “what an assh*le!” So just on my name I jump out there. I’m not gonna look very good, I’m not going to do a great job. And what does that say to all of the guys who have worked? Have wrestled for fifty f*cking bucks, you know? I mean like it’s kind of a spit in their face.”
It’s hard to argue with his logic. If he jumped in on name value alone, and didn’t have the skills to work in the ring, it would not be a good look for him if he is serious about a career in wrestling. Taking the time to learn the business and paying his dues will go a long way in building respect. He has that respect in MMA, but that won’t transition to WWE.
The transition shouldn’t be hard, he has amazing grappling ability which is a huge asset, so if he can learn the basics even of wrestling and just combine those into his MMA style, he would be a great attraction for any card. Many MMA fighters have made the transition, from Ken Shamrock & Cain Velasquez to Ronda Rousey & Shayna Bazler. What you get is often great, and I have no doubt Frank Mir could make a splash. Would you want to see Frank Mir wrestle in WWE or AEW? Let us know down below in the comment section!
