Goldberg Nearly Joined Brock Lesnar In MMA Career

Goldberg has disclosed his near foray into the world of mixed martial arts. His wrestling moves, even during his WCW days, carried a distinct MMA influence, reflecting a time when the UFC was still in its dark ages.

During a recent interview with Ariel Helwani, Goldberg revealed that he had seriously considered transitioning to MMA. He stated that he came closest to realizing this ambition through an exhibition with GLORY, a kickboxing promotion established in 2012, during a period when he was taking a break from wrestling.

"I've always kind of dabbled in the thought that I could have crossed over. GLORY and I were closer than any promotion, of me doing something, like an exhibition. I'll be honest. My abilities fall so short of what my expectation for myself would be as an outcome in a sport like that," he said. "My injuries prevent me. It's hard for me to throw a right hand without breaking my hand or blowing my shoulder out. I'm not worried about getting hurt by other people.

I'm worried about what's going to happen to my body once I connect. I was never a true wrestler, so I don't have that ground game, even though I was the co-owner of the largest MMA gym back in the early 90s. To do a crossover like that, I wasn't around when the Mike Tyson money was around to make him lower to the point of getting in the ring with Jake Paul.

For the amount of money he did, I don't blame him. I don't think that type of money was around, or I might have considered it. I always have such a high expectation of myself, and if I don't feel as though I'm prepared, I'm not going to take that chance in front of national television just for the sake of money and doing it."

More news: WWE News: Steve Austin Reveals Real-Life Vince McMahon Confrontation

Lesnar's transition to mixed martial arts began in 2007, and after one fight, he made his UFC debut at UFC 81 against Min Soo Kim. His impressive first-round TKO victory immediately showcased his skills, propelling him rapidly through the UFC ranks.

Lesnar's unique combination of professional wrestling experience, imposing physical stature, and raw athletic ability quickly made him a major attraction within the sport. This rapid ascent culminated in his UFC Heavyweight Championship victory over Randy Couture at UFC 91 in 2008, achieved in just his fourth professional MMA bout, marking one of the fastest title captures in MMA history.

Lesnar's championship reign included successful title defenses against Frank Mir in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 100 in 2009 and Shane Carwin in a thrilling contest at UFC 116. He dropped a loss to Cain Velasquez at UFC 121 in 2010, which resulted in him losing the title. His MMA journey was further complicated by severe health issues, particularly diverticulitis, a debilitating colon condition that required surgery in 2010. These health concerns ultimately contributed to his initial retirement from MMA in 2011.

In a surprising turn of events, Lesnar dramatically returned to the UFC in 2016, facing Mark Hunt at UFC 200. Although he initially won the fight via unanimous decision, the victory was later overturned to a no-contest due to a positive test for a banned substance.

More WWE News:

• WWE Superstar Reveals He Was Asked To Change Physical Appearance
• WWE Has Big Plans for Alexa Bliss: Report
• WWE Hall Of Famer Returns In Backstage Role

For more on WWE, head to Newsweek Sports.