EA Sports UFC 2 CM Punk
CM Punk in EA Sports UFC 2. EA

EA Sports has released a new gameplay trailer for its second game under the UFC licence, which details improvements coming in the sequel and gives us the first look at CM Punk – who has yet to have his first professional fight since quitting WWE and taking up mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2014.

Punk (real name Phil Brooks)'s first fight is expected to take place later this year, possibly at July's UFC 200 event in Las Vegas. He has a background in martial arts but has never competed in an MMA bout. He has been training for his UFC debut since late 2014, when he announced he had signed a multi-fight deal with the UFC.

EA Sports UFC 2 will build on EA's first attempt with the licence, released in 2014. That game disappointed fans following the multiple, fantastic UFC games released between 2009 and 2012, back when the now-defunct THQ held the licence.

The new trailer describes improvements to submissions, grappling, defensive play and the physics system that handles knockouts. A press release details the improvements further.

Knockout Physics System – A revolutionary new physics-driven hit reaction and knockout system delivers more visceral, more rewarding, and more authentic KOs than ever before.

Next-Level Submissions – Surprise your opponent with a flying armbar from the clinch, or with a quick transition from a knee bar to a heel hook. The addition of standing submissions and submission chaining (sequences) takes UFC 2's grappling game to the next level.

Dynamic Grappling – For the first time in any MMA game, experience the freedom of independent fighter control in every grappling situation. Simultaneous two-fighter interaction brings the ground game to life with greater responsiveness and variety.

Ultimate Defence – You can't hurt what you can't hit. Greater control over your fighter's head movement lets you to slip and dodge incoming strikes with amazing fluidity. Add an improved blocking and parrying system to the mix and you have new tools to fend off your opponent's most devastating attacks.

Meanwhile on Twitter, CM Punk addressed his inclusion in the game, referencing the outcry that a fighter who has yet to compete in the UFC gets to be included in the game. An MMA reporter said Twitter that Punk has an 85/100 rating in the game, having recently played it.

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