Cain Velasquez officially set to enter the world of pro wrestling

Cain Velasquez is scheduled to get back in action… But not MMA action.

In February, the former two-time UFC heavyweight champion made his long-awaited comeback after a three-year layoff to take on Cameroon’s ‘Predator,’ Francis Ngannou in the main event of UFC Phoenix.

Unfortunately for the former champ, his comeback party would be spoiled in just 26 seconds.

Velasquez has now confirmed that he will take his talents to the world of professional wrestling where he has signed with AAA where he will make his debut at their Triplemania XXVII event on August 3 in Mexico City.

“Very excited to be able to participate in #triplemaniaxxvii and be with all the Mexican fans who have always supported me! Thanks @luchalibreaaa for the big opportunity. Really excited to be part of #triplemaniaxxvii! #luchalibre #Mexico” Velasquez tweeted.

Despite very recently returning to action in the sport he made a name for himself in, the 36-year old will indeed be competing as a wrestler rather than just making an appearance.

But it was noted at the Triplemania press conference that Velasquez has two or three fights remaining on his current UFC contract (via MMA Fighting).

“In a statement via his team, Velasquez confirmed he will ‘for sure’ be an in-ring performer for AAA. This is not just an appearance. Velasquez: ‘With more time learning this beautiful sport, great things will happen.'” Marc Raimondi tweeted.

During his time off from July 2016 to February 2019, Velasquez teased some interest in working in the pro wrestling world and now he’s going to make it a reality. What exactly this means for his immediate MMA future remains to be seen.

As for his in-ring debut, no opponents were specified along with the announcement.

This article first appeared on BJPenn.com on 3/26/2019