CM Punk's UFC debut continues to be cloudy, with the former WWE star still recuperating from a shoulder injury he sustained in late 2015.
Such has brought up varying speculations on whether Punk would ever debut and be successful in the UFC circle, though president Dana White still thinks so.
Punk was initially believed to be debuting last December but all that fizzled out due to his lack of preparation. The shoulder injury only made things worse and possibly pushed back his much awaited UFC debut.
The word out right now is that Punk could finally make his debut at UFC 200 in July, although even that is uncertain.
But some positive news may have come up with White possibly finding the right first opponent for the 37-year-old Punk.
The opponent could potentially be Mickey Gall, a newcomer and virtual unknown. Gall made his professional debut recently but it was pitching himself to White that was of more interest.
Obviously surprised at the pitch, White seems coy with it after congratulating Gall for winning his first pro fight via submission as reported by MMA Junkie.
Hence, that is perhaps the latest positive note with regards to Punk's potential UFC debut. But there are some who have aired their sentiments on losing hope of seeing the former WWE champion enter the Octagon and show what he can do. That includes Daniel Cormier and Kenny Florian, who are now doubtful on whether an aging Punk will ever be able to make it to the Octagon.
Duke Roufus, the man tasked to whip up Punk to fighting shape, however, says otherwise. While he understands the questions in the air, he believes that Punk is on course and stays positive that Punk will indeed make his debut.
It remains to be seen if Punk will have enough time to prepare for UFC 200. If Punk ends up not debuting at UFC 200, chances are his stint could remain forever up in the clouds. Age and time is not on his side, something critics are also singling out.
