In a seismic shift for combat sports, the UFC and WWE have officially merged, marking a historic moment that has sent shockwaves throughout the world of professional wrestling and mixed martial arts. Endeavor, the parent company of the UFC, has acquired a majority stake in WWE, resulting in the creation of the new powerhouse entity known as TKO Group Holdings. This monumental merger has significant ramifications: Vince McMahon will relinquish his majority voting control over WWE, while Dana White steps down as the President of the UFC but assumes the role of CEO, shaping the future of the combat sports landscape.
Amidst this transformative period, a viral image has emerged, capturing a face-off between UFC heavyweight champion and former WWE superstar, John Cena. This striking visual has ignited fervent speculation about a potential crossover between the two promotions, leaving fans in a state of bewilderment and prompting a flurry of passionate reactions across the internet.
Fan Backlash: Resistance to the Crossover
Predictably, fans have expressed strong resistance to the notion of a crossover fight between Jon Jones and John Cena, two iconic figures from vastly different worlds of combat sports. Their sentiments range from humor to skepticism, with a vocal section of the fanbase vehemently opposing the prospect of these two universes colliding.
Some fans offered alternative matchups, such as pitting female streamer Bad Bunny against the BMF (Baddest Motherf***er) belt-holder, Justin Gaethje, suggesting that this unconventional clash might better suit the tastes of the combat sports community.
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Others passionately implored for the separation of UFC and WWE, believing that the distinct nature of scripted entertainment and unscripted combat should remain unaltered.
A cheeky suggestion emerged that John Cena’s “power of invisibility” would grant him an advantage over Jon Jones, humorously proposing that Cena would emerge victorious in nine out of ten battles.
Amidst the jest, concerns were raised for Cena’s well-being should he face the formidable Jon Jones, with some fans playfully speculating that a bout with “Bones” might lead to Cena’s disappearance.
A prevailing sentiment echoed by many fans was the reluctance to witness Cena potentially endure harm in a real combat scenario, emphasizing the desire to protect the beloved wrestling icon.
One fan playfully surmised that Jones, renowned for his creative fight strategies, might even resort to “eye pokes” to gain an upper hand against an “invisible” John Cena.
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Mixed Reactions to the Merger
While the merger between UFC and WWE undoubtedly represents a shrewd business move with the potential for cost-cutting benefits, fans have overwhelmingly expressed their preference for maintaining a clear divide between scripted and unscripted fighting. Notably, fighters like Ronda Rousey have successfully transitioned from the UFC to WWE, while the likes of Brock Lesnar and CM Punk ventured into MMA to varying degrees of achievement. However, the idea of an intersection between these two distinct worlds has left fans advocating for the preservation of their unique characteristics.
As the merger takes hold and speculation regarding potential crossovers persists, the wrestling and MMA communities continue to grapple with the implications of this monumental union.
