10 MMA Fighters Who Became Pro Wrestlers

Chael Sonnen left his mark on the sport of MMA with his god-tier trash-talking, that he backed up with constant pressure and elite-level amateur wrestling skills. Sonnen successfully incorporated several aspects of pro wrestling into his MMA persona that longtime fans will be familiar with, including borrowing elements of classic Superstar Billy Graham promos.

Sonnen actually nearly became a pro wrestler before his MMA career had even taken off. In 1999, while still at university, Sonnen attended a try-out at the WCW Power Plant wrestling school. After completing three gruelling days of intense exercise, Sonnen was invited to come and train at the facility. Unfortunately, the alternate timeline where a young Sonnen saved WCW from extinction wasn't to be, as the 'American Gangster' returned for his final year at college and in the meantime, WCW was purchased by the WWF.

The multi-time UFC title challenger's association with pro wrestling didn't end there though. Sonnen appeared as a commentator and analyst for Jeff Jarrett's Global Force Wrestling events throughout 2015.

At 42, it is unlikely that Sonnen will ever make his transition to active competition, but with the MMA star retiring from fighting last year, there's once again a possibility he could fulfil his in-ring potential with a move to pro wrestling.