Commentary: Could Kimbo Slice "Make It" In Professional Wrestling?

Part II of my two-part Column on the line between MMA and Wrestling.

Kimbo Slice is currently seen as "The next big thing" in the rapidly growing world of Mixed Martial Arts. Kimbo currently has three victories under his belt, the most recent one taking place at the EliteXC's event on February 16 in what was booked as one of the most hyped fights in recent years against the legendary UFC pit fighter David "Tank" Abbott.

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Kimbo Slice is a potential prospect in my opinion for a stint in professional wrestling. Kimbo Slice is at the age of 34 but is a well known STREET fighter. His shows and his fights were broadcast over the Internet making him a spectacle phenomenon, never being beaten and never losing, garnering him an audience and a fan base literally consisting of MILLIONS. It was not until his arrival in the professional leagues of mixed martial arts last year however that he gained worldwide media acclaim as an unstoppable beast and the next big thing in mixed martial arts, some even stating that even with just 3 wins under his belt that he would be a formidable opponent for the likes of Ken Shamrock and Butterbean. While this statement is yet to be backed up, it certainly seems from the way he has won his past fights to be true.

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Professional Wrestling has capitalised on such situations in the past, even delving into the world of professional boxing and bringing in Mike Tyson, if they can do it with boxing and mixed martial arts, it seems like they could utilize a menace such as Kimbo Slice with ease and perfection once he has more experience and more wins under his belt, and assuming he can stay undefeated, which at the moment seems like more of a reality than a dream, the opposite of the way things normally seem.

Picture all the media attention that a mainstream promotion such as the World Wrestling Entertainment or Total Nonstop Action Wrestling would receive from bringing in a monster such as Kimbo Slice, not only would they bring in MMA fans, but they would also be bringing in major mainstream media attention, as well as Kimbo's personal fans, which as I stated above, are MILLIONS.

The feuds and the angles which could take place with this are endless. A program with such legends as Stone Cold Steve Austin or Hulk Hogan would garner millions, or even with the likes of Triple H or Shawn Michaels at a WrestleMania.

Or if you want to delve into the realms of Total Nonstop Action, picture Kimbo Slice Versus Samoa Joe, now there is a hyped up match right there, Two unstoppable, indomitable monsters squaring off in the centre of the six sided ring, toe to toe, one on one. You could even go as far as Kimbo Slice Versus Kurt Angle who has stated interest in joining the ranks of Mixed Martial Arts over the recent years.

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The possibilities are endless, but the point to be considered is of course MONEY and RATINGS, the main things that any successful professional wrestling organisation needs. I wonder if TNA and WWE are even aware of the success and attention that Kimbo Slice has following him? Well, only time can tell, but I personally think with a few more wins under his belt, Kimbo can make the jump and make the money in the process.

That was part 2 of my 2 part commentary of crossing the line between MMA and Wrestling, I hope you enjoyed the read. You can view my past commentaries by following the link below, clicking articles and then Sports & Recreation; all feedback is obviously welcomed.

Thank you to Wrestlinginc.com for giving me this opportunity.

Wayne

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