8 Things We Learned From CM Punk's Sports Illustrated Appearance

By Jay Anderson /

2. He Sees Motivations As A Key Difference Between Wrestling And MMA

Politics, motivations - in the WWE, everyone is trying to get ahead. Same in the UFC, but in the UFC, it's by winning, and connecting with fans. You don't have the backstage shenanigans that you do in pro wrestling. Even action in the ring is much simpler. As Punk pets it;
"You wonder, Did you really punch me in the face? You say it was an accident but I know you and I think you're a p----- and I€™ve seen you do this to other people. Are you doing this to me? Did you kick me in the ribs as hard as you can? No, no I would never do that! In I know the other guy is going to try and kick me in the ribs as hard as he can."