Love him or hate him, CM Punk deserves credit for trying to follow his dreams.
Even at age 37, the "Best in the World" won't give up on trying to make it in the UFC. His debut has been pushed back several times -- most recently due to back surgery -- but he's remained steadfast in his approach to get into the Octagon.
Things reportedly haven't gone smoothly for Punk thus far. There were recent reports that the former WWE World Heavyweight Champion hasn't been progressing as he should in training for his debut fight against New Jersey native Mickey Gall, 24, which is likely to occur this summer.
The "Best in the World" also hasn't fared well in his sparring sessions, according to The Wrestling Observer. With all of his setbacks and struggles, one must wonder if it was worth it for Punk to leave the WWE to begin with.
Punk's frustrations with the WWE boiled over in January 2014, causing him to bolt the organization and never look back. The former wrestler later revealed he was upset over his role in the company and over the fact that he was asked to work hurt on several occasions.
He also took aim at company Dr. Chris Amann, whom he claimed tried to sweep a concussion Punk suffered at the Royal Rumble, his final event with the company, under the rug.
The comments, which took place on his friend Colt Cabana's podcast in November 2014, led to a defamation lawsuit from the physician, which in turn caused Punk's wife AJ Lee to leave WWE.
Though there is obviously a lot of angst between Punk and Vince McMahon's company, if the likes of Bret Hart -- who was the victim of the Montreal Screwjob -- can find their way back, anyone can.
Punk has gone on record saying he'd never return, and even if he doesn't come back to WWE, he could wrestle in other places. At age 37 with myriad health issues, Punk is certainly risking embarrassing himself against Gall if and when their UFC fight finally goes down.
The WWE misses Punk. Punk's outside ventures haven't quite panned out. Perhaps it's high time for a reunion between the two.
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