‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin names two controversial UFC stars he wants to see in WWE

UFC recently merged with WWE following a billion-dollar deal

By Web Desk
February 21, 2024
WWE legend “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. — WWE

The World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) legend “Stone Cold” Steve Austin cannot hide his excitement about the WWE-UFC merger and has talked about some stars he would to see in the ring.

Last year, MMA's leading promotion entered into a remarkable £17.3 billion deal with the professional wrestling organisation, resulting in the formation of a new company named TKO.

Amidst speculation surrounding the merger, UFC superstar Conor McGregor expressed interest in transitioning to WWE and quickly engaged in a verbal spat with wrestling legend Paul Heyman.

However, another WWE veteran, who envisions UFC stars venturing into his realm, believes two other MMA fighters are better suited.

"If I had to pick right now, I'd go with Sean Strickland," Austin stated in an ESPN interview. "I admire Sean Strickland. He maintains composure in the Octagon while delivering impressive promos.

"Next, I'd choose Colby Covington. He excels in trash talk and possesses exceptional athletic prowess. He never seems to tire, maintains peak physical condition, and can back up his words. He's thrilling and possesses that elusive X factor."

Strickland and Covington are among UFC's most polarising figures.

Strickland, until recently, held the middleweight title, albeit briefly, encountering several controversies during his reign and continuing his erratic behaviour since Dricus du Plessis dethroned him last month.

The American faced criticism for sharing sparring KO videos, engaging in altercations in the crowd at a UFC event, and insulting rapper Machine Gun Kelly at a recent Power Slap show.

Throughout his MMA career, Covington has embraced the WWE villain persona.

Using Kurt Angle's entrance music, 'Chaos' took his gimmick to extremes when he mocked Leon Edwards' deceased father before their UFC 296 clash in December.

Following his defeat in his third UFC title bout, the 35-year-old may consider a career transition, although a lucrative bout with Ian Garry awaits.

While Strickland's move to WWE seems improbable given his status as a top 185lb contender, it wouldn't be surprising if his next fight is for UFC gold.

McGregor might be disappointed to be overlooked by Austin, especially after his UFC comeback opponent, Michael Chandler, called him out on Monday Night RAW earlier in the week.

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