During yesterday’s WWE Crown Jewel event in Saudi Arabia, former UFC Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez made his WWE in-ring debut. He faced off current WWE Champion Brock Lesnar with the title on the line.
The match itself, however, was a short-lived affair, ending in Lesnar submitting Velasquez via kimura in two minutes and three seconds. According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE always intended to have their clash be a quick encounter.
The reason behind this decision is due to Velasquez’s knee being in poor condition. It’s believed he requires knee surgery in order to remedy the issues. At the time of writing, there is no indication as to when he might receive the operation, or how long he may be healing for afterwards.
WWE was aware of his knee problems, as well as the possibility of surgery, when they initially signed him. Prior to signing with WWE, Velasquez had been in talks with All Elite Wrestling and New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
Cain Velasquez is signed to a three-year contract, though it is not known whether WWE intended to use him as a regular talent or as more irregular featured Superstar.
He is apparently still scheduled to team with Rey Mysterio in a tag team match against Andrade and Drew McIntyre. This bout is set to take place at a WWE Live Event in Mexico City on Saturday, November 30th.
