Shinsuke Nakamura is the King of Strong Style and much of his offence bears some similarities to the sort of moves you'd see in UFC. It may not surprise you to learn that he actually turned down a contract with UFC over a decade ago - 2005 to be exact - and he's now explained why he decided to remain part of the pro wrestling world despite having a 3-1 MMA record.
"Around 2005, UFC offered me a chance to fight for them. But, at that moment, I was under contract with NJPW and I decided to stay in pro-wrestling. It was a good opportunity, but I don’t regret my choice. You have to understand that I am 37-year old now. It has been a long time since my last proper MMA training and although I still train in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, it will take me at least one year to be ready for a proper fight. That is not something I want to do as I am happy in WWE."
Nakamura clearly had his long-term future in mind when he turned down UFC's offer as it's only possible for a fighter to remain in the octagon up to a certain age. The damage done to their bodies in that time can sometimes be immeasurable too and Nakamura is currently making good money as a top WWE Superstar whereas he would have likely been retired from UFC by now.
It certainly would have been interesting to see him do MMA full-time, though, but at least we get to enjoy him for quite a few more years in WWE now. What do you guys think?