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So, I just finished watching the Lesnar vs. Overeem UFC fight. Lesnar was hit hard in the gut (liver) and was TKO'd halfway through the first round. During his post fight interview he said that he was officially announcing his retirement from MMA. He stated that he promised his wife, kids, and family that if he won he would make his next match (a title match) his last, but if he lost, this would be his last. He lost, and now he is officially retired from UFC, and apparently retired from MMA.
The fact is that Lesnar had several inches of his colon removed last year due to diverticulitis. He said tonight that the last couple of years have been incredibly hard due to the disease. You have to respect this man, and his accomplishments. This was not the Brock Lesnar that taunts fans tonight. He was subdued, apologetic, and appreciative. He congratulated Overeem after the bout, thanked the Fertitta Brothers and Dana White, and then said thank you to the fans.
I have to believe this is a legitimate retirement, unlike many others. I still think Brock is a beast, and in a straight out fight, I believe he could kick just about anyone's ass. Face it, not many people would be dumb enough to pick a fight with him, period. I think his reasoning is legit, and I think that his disease and the weakness in his gut (colon and intestines), not his literal gut, are what brought this retirement on. Brock is a fighter with an incredible amount of pride, and the fact that he can't compete at the top level anymore is his reason for walking away. I respect him for going out on top, or as close as could to on top.
So, the entire point of all of this is very simple. Brock will no longer be bound by a UFC contract, and will no longer be intensely training for heavyweight MMA bouts. Do you think there is any chance that Vince McMahon will offer Lesnar enough money that it would be impossible to refuse a Wrestlemania appearance. Last year we were teased with the idea that Brock Lesnar or Sting could possibly be Undertaker's opponent at Wrestlemania.
Is it possible that WWE could pull off an almost impossible feat and make Lesnar the person behind the 1-2-12 promos? Never say never. For the right money, I wouldn't discount it as possible. Lesnar doesn't need to return full time. All he needs to do is come back and say that he is reclaiming his spot at the top, and he wants one more match to prove it, and that will be against the Undertaker at Wrestlemania.
I know it is a stretch, but his retirement, and the timing of the 1-2-12 date seem to fall in place together very well. It is possible, but highly unlikely that a deal was already done, and Brock intends to finish in WWE. I would say the more likely scenario is that Brock will get a call from Vince McMahon himself with an offer that Brock simply won't be able to refuse. I think Lesnar may very well appear at Wrestlemania as a one time attraction. The only detraction for WWE is that his appearance could very well overshadow Rock vs. Cena, especially if it was against The Undertaker.
I am no smark, and I have no insider knowledge. I am simply a fan. I don't necessarily believe any of what I have said will happen, but it is possible, and as a fan, I will remain hopeful until April 2nd in Miami.
Please, tell me what you think.
BTW, to the OPS, I apologize for duplication. I posted before I realized the thread existed. I literally wrote and posted immediately after the match.