CM Punk to join MTV reality competition this spring
CM Punk's next test won't take place in the Octagon or the ring.
The former WWE superstar will be one of 10 professional athletes to take part in MTV's "The Challenge: Champs vs. Pros," set to premiere May 16, according to the network's official website. Punk and fellow sports figures will take on the winners of MTV programs "Real World" and "Road Rules" in competitions meant to test endurance, agility, brains, and the like over the six-week series.
Joining Punk are Olympic hurdler Lolo Jones, former NFL linebacker Shawne Merriman and snowboarder Lindsey Jacobellis, to name a few, with each vying for $50,000 meant for a charity of their choosing. The former pro wrestler will look to bring the prize to animal shelter PAWS Chicago.
Punk's MMA foray began when the UFC took a flyer on him in late 2014, with injuries delaying his debut until September 2016. The 38-year-old's first fight in four-ounce gloves lasted just two minutes and change, as prospect Mickey Gall dispatched him with a rear-naked choke.
The Chicago native was later tossed around as a potential cast member on this season of the UFC's flagship program "The Ultimate Fighter," but the promotion never tapped him to join the show, hence the newfound outlet meant to test his mettle.
- With h/t to MMA Fighting