WWE’s Shinsuke Nakamura to Make Surprise UFC 303 Appearance

One big thing: WWE star crosses over to UFC

Shinsuke Nakamura, a prominent WWE superstar, is set to make an unexpected appearance at UFC 303 on June 29, 2024, in Paradise, Nevada.

The details:

• Nakamura will be in the corner of Tsuruya Rei, a UFC debutant.
• Rei faces Carlos Hernandez in a Flyweight match on the early preliminary card.
• The event will be streamed on ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass.

Why it matters:

This crossover appearance highlights the growing synergy between professional wrestling and mixed martial arts, potentially attracting new audiences to both sports.

By the numbers:

• UFC 303’s main event: Alex Pereira vs Jiří Procházka for the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship.
• Originally planned headliner: Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler (now postponed).

Nakamura’s recent WWE activities:

• Faced Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship during the WWE SuperShow Summer Tour.
• Also competed against LA Knight on the tour.
• Has been frequently working with Cody Rhodes in WWE house shows throughout 2024.

What’s next:

All eyes will be on Nakamura’s performance as a cornerman and how this UFC appearance might influence his WWE storylines moving forward.

What do you think about WWE superstars making appearances in UFC events? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!