Mma sports issue45

MMA SPORTS issue 45

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Former UFC RingGirl Amber Nichole-Miller

What a year in Mixed Martial Arts. We saw a new UFC Heavyweight Champion when Werdum submitted Velasquez, Ronda Rousey was brutally finished by Holly Holm and Pound for Pound King Jose Aldo was unable to keep his title when he faced Conor McGregor, only lasting 13 seconds.

So who is on the cover? Unbeaten in the UFC with his 2-0 UFC record, Misha Cirkunov is on the rise in the Light Heavyweight division. On a six fight winning streak with no losses since 2012, he knows how to finish opponents in every possible way, with both knockout victories and submission victories.

In this issue, we count down the Top ten biggest disappointments by MMA transitionists, and we look at the year in review with Top 5 Fights, Knockouts, Submissions, Male Fighters, Female Fighters and Breakthrough Fighters.

In other features, David Maldonado goes through Corner Mistakes, We take a look at Conor McGregor and how he got his UFC Featherweight title and in Blast of the Past we take a look at the UFC 91 fight between Brock Lesnar vs Randy Couture.

In Training Day Rob King takes us through the Top 5 Dumbbell exercises for MMA training and Anderson “The Spider” Silva teaches us some of his ground game.

We feature 5 HOT knockout babes and in the centre you’ll find FOUR pull out posters for your wall.

We cover the latest Mixed Martial Arts news.

All this and so much more.

Editorial Elie Editor Sandy Atalah Art Director Drew Santos Staff Photographer Paul Venomous Staff Photographer FOTOART BY DRE Staff Photographer Contributors this issue Corey Quincy, David Maldonado Rob King and Dan Lim. Contributing Photographers this issue Josh Hedges, Zuffa LLC and Dan Lim. Australia Advertising Enquiries

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MMA SPORTS is published bi-monthly.

Enjoy, From The Editor...

Elie

Copyright 2016. All rights reserved.

Cover Photo Misha Cirkunov . by Dan Lim Model: Anja . FOTOART BY DRE © MMA SPORTS®

Any information published by MMA SPORTS Pty Ltd cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher. Contributions welcome, but material is submitted at owner's risk. We do not return submissions or accept responsibility for loss or damage.

Under no circumstances shall MMA SPORTS Pty Ltd accept any responsibility for any loss that may be suffered as a result of reliance of any information discussed or advertised herein, including advertisements for products and services and information concerning techniques discussed exercises and training tips published within the magazine. MMA SPORTS Pty Ltd also will not bear any responsibility for any mistakes or misprint errors.

12 Knockout Babe - Anja 16 Cover Story - Misha Cirkunov Beyond The Octagon

28 Conor McGregor A True Once-Ever Athlete

32 Training Day Top 5 Dumbbell exercises for MMA training

40 Knockout Babe - Margaret Wood 44 Killer Shot 47 Pull-Out Posters Four double page pull-out posters

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76 28 Conor McGregor

12 ANJA

56 Blast from the Past Brock Lesnar vs Randy Couture

58 Knockout Babe - Hayley Van Amsterdam 62 Top Ten Biggest Disappointments by MMA transitionists

76 Step by Step with Anderson Silva

78 Corner Mistakes 80 Knockout Babe - Brittany Anderson 86 2015 MMA SPORTS Awards Countdown to the Best of the Year

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62

MMA SPORTS: What nationality are you?

Anja: I’m White, Black, and Puerto Rican, in the acting industry it is described as ethnically ambiguous.

MMA SPORTS: Describe yourself in one sentence?

Anja: I’m not what you expect upon first glance.

MMA SPORTS: What do you do with your free time?

Anja: I enjoy writing music, singing, and playing guitar.

MMA SPORTS: What kind of clothing on a guy would catch your attention?

Anja: I love men in suits!

Especially if they are able to wear it with their own swag. So sexy!

MMA SPORTS: What would you wear to seduce a man?

Anja: Heels to show off my legs, after that it’s over!

Heels to show off my legs, after that it’s over.

Interviewed by Elie for MMA SPORTS® Photos: FOTOART BY DRE © MMA SPORTS®

MMA SPORTS: Where do you think men go wrong with women?

Anja: Putting themselves first. I feel like a lot of men expect women to play that supporting role and go along with whatever they want to

do, but a lot of women have goals for themselves, as well. It shouldn’t always be about you.

MMA SPORTS: What do you have a weakness for?

Anja: I have a weakness for good food.

MMA SPORTS: What’s your sexiest feature?

Anja: My eyes. Definitely my eyes.

Photography & Story by Dan Lim

Y

ou walk into the octagon, and those lights they warm the blood up, and the smell…. it’s just like iron. It’s like you’re stepping into hell.

— Misha Cirkunov Physical PAIN… fight or flight. Most will go through life trying their best to avoid the pain.

While others, although not engaging in violence, find the experience of seeing someone else’s pain intriguing, at times even entertaining.

Looking through history, up until today, watching a man fight for his life as a source of entertainment is not uncommon. From gladiators in coliseums to movies and sporting events, being able to vicariously experience (to some degree) the pain of the individual through entertainment has fascinated many, and confused others. Today, this appeal finds itself in mixed martial arts fighting, or MMA, through one of the largest and most profitable organizations in the world, The UFC. The intriguing aspect I found in this sport has been watching these athletes endure immense amounts of pain, training or fighting, yet still remain focused. Being able to see these pros unveil the multi disciplinary art of fighting is an art in itself and deserves a great amount of respect. Although this sport has its fans and its haters, understanding why someone would want to endure these pains has always piqued my interest.

4:45 in the first round of his UFC debut, the referee calls an end to the fight. Misha Cirkunov, the next Canadian light-Heavyweight hopeful, defeats Daniel Jolly by Technical Knock Out, and gives us a glimpse of what’s to come.

A few years ago, I met Misha Cirkunov, a mixed martial art fighter who has just recently signed a contract with the UFC. Curious about his passion for fighting, I had an incredible opportunity to spend a day photographing and talking with him as to why he does what he does.

Misha gave a lot of insight into the smaller details of the sport, and why these athletes choose to fight despite the risks. There is definitely a certain kind of dedication and mindset that is required to become an elite fighter. Upon walking into his apartment at 10am, Misha had already consumed 5 liters of liquid - 4 liters of water and 1 liter of coffee. As I captured his morning ritual, Misha kept drinking, and explained that this was the most important part of his day.

“I drink so much so my muscles are lubricated for the day. Less risk of injury, and better for my general health.”

What I didn’t realize was how strict his dietary plan had to be once signed by the UFC. “I fought one guy, I swear he was on cocaine. A 100%. I remember I landed a big punch. Boom right in his head. I felt my knuckles hit his brain. That’s how hard I hit him. He got rocked! But right away he shook it off and was back and ready to fight. Normally he’d be out, unconscious. But because it was not UFC, they don’t get as well tested.

So who knows what else he could’ve been on. I remember his eyes. There was no way he was natural. That’s why fighting at the UFC, yes it’s a higher stage, but it’s a bit of a relief because now I know everyone will submit their urine in front of someone so you can’t fake it and they get blood tests. So now I know it’s fair competition. It’s just about who wants it more.”

As the day went on and we went from workout to sparring, to rest, Misha unveiled where his passion for fighting came from.

“I’ve been training martial arts since I was nine. Judo, wrestling, but nothing serious. And I moved to Canada when I was 13. I had no friends, I didn’t know the language, then I got depressed, I had nothing to do, I just wanted to get out of Canada. One day I saw a sign for Judo practice at the North York YMCA. Right away my eyes lit up because it was something I use to do back home. I remember entering the gym and I could smell the smell of the sweat. And it’s the same smell of the sweat as back home, so all of a sudden, I’m doing the same art, the same smell, the same mats, and now every time I step on the mats, I feel like I’m at home.”

“One of the best natural highs is after you win, the surge of energy you get. Once you feel it once, it’s very addictive. And you always want it. The first time I won a professional fight, that feeling lasted an hour. The second time I won it only lasted 5–10 minutes. It’s one of those feelings that you crave for the rest of your life. It’s your money, it’s your passion, it’s your drive, it’s your everything. I don’t want to just get a 100% on the test; I want to get a 100% and a medal.”

When I asked Misha why he kept fighting considering the risks, he didn’t hesitate to tell me that he wouldn’t recommend this sport for anyone. However he did raise an important point about fighting that made me rethink why some are so attracted to this sport. It’s something they were brought up with and have a special respect for.

“It’s something I’ve been doing my whole life. I feel like I understand the sport really well, so I don’t see myself doing anything else. I understand how dangerous it is, and how mentally challenging it is, but it’s bigger than that. The natural high I get from it and the ability to achieve the goals I want is so much bigger than the risks.

And being on the mats feels like home.

It’s what I know, it’s what I love. My whole life, everything I’ve been doing has been towards this moment.”

“Fighting is a very rough sport, it’s not for everybody. Once you really feel that scrap and you understand what you are getting into then you realize how nuts it really is.”

“Imagine seeing 10,000 people, all screaming, some drunk. Lights, music, everything! And you see the cage. My last two fights, I was the main event, last event of the night for the title. You walk into the Octagon, and it’s like a sauna. And because you’re the last one on the card, the floor is covered in blood, and they can’t clean it because the canvas absorbs it. So you walk in, and those lights they warm the blood up, and the smell… it’s just like iron. It’s like you’re stepping into hell.

And now you have to fight a guy who is just a beast, and looks like he just wants to knock you out. That feeling is ridiculous. To be a champion you have to be a little bit crazy.”

“It’s more than simply fighting and winning. Being successful in the sport made me more confident in life. It made me learn a new language, make friends. Everything.”

Misha has been singled out by numerous Canadian media outlets as being the next Canadian fighter to dominate the light-heavyweight division after being signed. And after spending the day with him and seeing him train as hard as he did, I wasn’t surprised to see Misha take his opponent down in the first round of his UFC debut by TKO. Mixed martial arts fighting is often misinterpreted as ONLY being a blood sport, where the premise is to defeat an opponent and collect your money. Spending a day photographing Misha Cirkunov opened my eyes to the passion for the sport. This story goes beyond blood and tears. It is a sport where fighters build a meaning for themselves, a legacy to leave for their family and develop confidence and respect through pushing the human body to its limits. Deep down, who wouldn’t want that?

“Fighting always evolves, you have to keep up. Just like an iPhone” - Misha Cirkunov

aving made his UFC debut just three years ago amidst a great deal of hype, Conor McGregor has now firmly established himself as one of the greatest fighters in the sport of MMA. As is often the case when fighters heavily promote themselves outside of the Octagon, “The Notorious” has encountered some notable criticism from fans, media members, and fellow fighters alike; but unlike other trash-talkers in the sport’s history, McGregor backs each and every claim up with results inside the Octagon.

H

And while his shockingly accurate predictions were impressive when he competed against high-level, yet not top-tier, athletes, they really have turned a corner in his last few fights.

When McGregor was scheduled to compete against Chad Mendes at UFC 189 (for those who don’t know, Mendes is one of the most feared featherweights in the world), he publicly and notably tried to make a three-million dollar bet with UFC President Dana White, as well as UFC-owner Lorenzo Fertitta. Much more specific than a simple bet on himself to win, McGregor claimed that he would defeat Mendes via strikes in the second round.

And in the end, he made good on his promise, defeating the elite Mendes via TKO with just seconds remaining in the second.

But the man that many call “Mystic Mac” took things to another level when he accurately predicted the exact fashion that he would defeat UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo in. In fewer words, he claimed that Aldo would load up on his right hand, leaving himself overextended and vulnerable to some vicious punches.

And when he knocked Aldo—who is, once again, one of the greatest fighters of all time—out cold in thirteen seconds in this exact fashion, it was hard for even the most doubtful of individuals to find anything negative to say about his brashness.

But career prospects haven’t always been so bright for McGregor. In late 2010, the Irishman found himself bested

by Joseph Duffy, a fellow countryman, in under a minute. This quick submission loss evidently didn’t deter him; he buckled down and added the proper tools to his MMA arsenal to ensure success.

And he hasn’t stopped improving since.

The point of this recollection is to emphasize that McGregor truly is a once-ever athlete—unlike Rousey, whom many, especially UFC commentator Joe Rogan and UFC President Dana White, indicated was one of the greatest athletes of all time.

True, Rowdy’s success has been impressive, and has also paved the way for women’s MMA. But ruling over a newly minted division and winning contests as a ten-to-one favorite simply isn’t as impressive as fighting some of the most established and consensus greatest fighters in the world and winning—but also boasting the confidence and knowledge to predict the exact nature of these wins. Moreover, McGregor has already overcome adversity in the way of a loss—two, to be exact—losses that could have easily caused him to give up on his career.

Perhaps the most exciting element of McGregor’s persona, that truly defines who he is as an athlete, is that he is always willing to take risks. He demanded to fight Jose Aldo when he was thought to be invincible, and now, he is scheduled to fight UFC lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos—an incredibly skilled fighter. To be clear, a win here is far from guaranteed.

But that’s what makes McGregor’s career so damn exciting—nothing is guaranteed, and he’ll always be rising to face new challenges—or overcoming adversity if he is bested. If and when he does taste defeat in his UFC run, the ride will certainly have been worth it— for both him and the fans.

And that’s the mark of a true once-ever athlete.

with Rob King

When it comes to training for MMA and Martial Arts, the best exercises are the simplest ones and exercises that will work the full body to make it stronger as a whole.

Dumbbell training has been used in Bodybuilding and with athletes for a long time now, and it’s a very effective tool for building muscle and improving overall strength. It’s a proven winner when it comes to building strength and muscle, so adding some type or dumbbell training is very beneficial to MMA and Martial Arts.

Another great thing about Dumbbells is that you can pretty much find them anywhere. It’s a rarity to see a gym that doesn’t have a set of dumbbells, which makes it very easy to implement them into your training overall.

With these 5 dumbbell exercises, the goal is to create overall body strength for MMA, not a focus on hypertrophy and size like a bodybuilder.

All these exercises require nothing but the dumbbells.

No other equipment or benches, so you can do these anywhere as is.

A Note On Reps

TRAINING DAY

A very simple rule of thumb on reps for dumbbell training and training in general, is let your reps be based on your goal. Here is a very simple rule for reps. Please note this is not exact and people are different, but depending on your goals you can adjust your reps accordingly to suit your training goals.

1-5 Reps Strength 5-8 Reps Strength/Muscle 8-12 Reps Muscle Hypertrophy/Strength 12-15 Reps Muscle Hypertrophy/Muscle Endurance 15-25 Reps Muscle Endurance

Page 33 MMA SPORTS

with Rob King

DUMBBELL EXERCISE 1

Floor Press The dumbbell floor press is a fantastic pressing exercise and great for MMA athletes, jiu-jitsu athletes and grapplers.

It is exactly like a dumbbell bench press except you lie on the ground and press from the floor. Doing this will reduce the distance travelled (in a bench press you get a longer stretch from the elevation of the bench). When you grapple you will be on the floor and often times be on your back, so this is a great upper body strength exercise.

3 Key Points

1. To isolate the upper body do not use your legs. Have them lie straight or raise the feet.

2. To make the exercise harder, pause every rep at the bottom as a dead stop.

TRAINING DAY

3. Vary it up by also adding in 1 arm versions.

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DUMBBELL EXERCISE 2

Goblet Squat The Goblet Squat is a great exercise for MMA & Martial arts for many reasons, but a few are as follows.

It’s a great squat to engage your core which is critical for overall strength. It will improve your hip mobility which carries over into kicking, grappling, and more. As well it’s a very joint friendly squat which will make you feel amazing.

The bar squat is the corner stone of my training, but bar work really can take its toll on the back and arms, where you can goblet squat every day without pain or discomfort. It’s a great squat variation.

3 Key Points

1. Learn to push the knees out and allow the hips to sink as deep as comfortable.

2. It’s important to create a “brace” and keep your core tight on every rep.

Pretend someone is going to punch you, create your brace, then squat.

3. Learn to “Squat Tall” and keep a neutral spine throughout the goblet squat.

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Page 35 MMA SPORTS

with Rob King

DUMBBELL EXERCISE 3

Arm Dumbbell Row The Bent Over One Arm Row is a staple dumbbell exercise that can be used for many reasons. When it comes to MMA there will be a big focus on pulling and a strong grip and strong lats are very important for this. The one arm row is a simple yet effective exercise to improve your grip and strengthen your pulling power. It will also add beef to your lats faster than most exercises.

3 Key Points

1. Try to row with your lats arms, and grip and not use momentum and your hips to do the pulling/rowing. Focus on the muscles doing the work and not momentum.

TRAINING DAY

2. Vary your hand positioning on rowing.

Do a normal grip (palms facing you) Also add in overhand grip (thumb facing you), and also underhand grip (thumb facing away) for getting strong in all areas.

3. Use Straps When Going Really Heavy.

Your grip will always be a limiting factor in this exercise, and while you want a strong grip, it’s also ok to use straps once in a while to overload the amount of weight being used. I’d recommend 25% work with straps.

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DUMBBELL EXERCISE 4

Standing DB Press I prefer to do most of my pressing for strength training in a standing position. Sitting on a bench and doing pressing variations takes out the legs and core and is great to isolate the shoulders, but for overall full body strength, I like doing this exercise standing not seated.

Stand in a neutral stance (feet together) or stand in a staggered stance (one foot in front of the other) and try your pressing from both stances.

It’s also a great variation to do one arm presses as this will engage your core as well making this a very challenging exercise and full body movement.

3 Key Points

1. Keep your core tight at all times. Learn to brace and keep that core tight.

2. Learn to squeeze your glutes. Squeezing your glutes will protect your lower back and also improve strength.

3. Vary pressing from one handed and two handed versions and also change your stance from feet together to split stance.

If your back hurts on these, try a split stance but elevate your front foot about 1 foot off the ground on to a box of step up.

Page 37 MMA SPORTS

with Rob King

DUMBBELL EXERCISE 5

Weighted Carry (Single & Double Arm) Weighted carries are one of the best overall exercises for improving grip along with improving core strength and mental conditioning.

You can mix up your carries from double handed carries to single arm carries. When you do a single arm carry, your core will have to stabilize much harder making this one of the best core exercises you can do.

The variations are endless between doing heavy carries for distance, for time, challenges and more.

For MMA and Martial Arts weighted carries I consider to be a must do exercise.

3 Key Points

1. Learn to brace and keep your core tight. Focus on locking your ribs down and keeping your core tight like someone is going to punch you.

2.

Keep good posture. Avoid pushing your head/neck to far forward. Always try to keep a neutral spine and strong posture.

3. Vary up your carries for best results. These are a great way to finish any workout.

TRAINING DAY

Summary Dumbbells are one of the most effective and simple tools to add to your training arsenal. They are simple and effective and can be found at almost any gym or fitness center. Add dumbbell training into your workouts, keep it simple, keep the movements perfect and always be trying to get stronger and lift Heavy Weights.

About The Author Rob King is the founder of HeavyWeights Training Center. He is a Martial Arts Black Belt, PowerLifting World Champion & Natural BodyBuilding Competitor.

You can ge more info on his blog at www.RobKingFitness.com

and Facebook at www.Facebook.com/Rob KingFitness

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Gym shorts and a t-shirt glistening with sweat.

Interviewed by Elie for MMA SPORTS® Photos: FOTOART BY DRE © MMA SPORTS®

MMA SPORTS: How did you get into the whole modelling scene?

Margaret: I was walking across campus my freshman year at Ole Miss and a photographer approached me and asked for my contact info. I got a call later that afternoon and it turned out he was with Playboy magazine and they asked me to come in for an interview because they were looking for girls for the upcoming "Girls of the SEC" edition. I declined at first, but finally agreed to meet with them...

I ended up in three different issues

from that one shoot and the rest is history.

MMA SPORTS: What kind of clothing on a guy would catch your attention?

Margaret: Gym shorts and a t-shirt glistening with sweat. I'm super attracted to an athletic guy.

MMA SPORTS: What would you wear to seduce a man?

Margaret: Sweatpants and a t-shirt, so he knows I still look good when I'm just chilling.

MMA SPORTS: How do you maintain that amazing body?

Margaret: Cardio and squats.

MMA SPORTS: Which celebrity would you like to spend 24 hours with?

Margaret: Betty White because she's flawless at 94.

MMA SPORTS: What’s your sexiest feature?

Margaret: My personality.

Blue eyes and abs.

MMA SPORTS: Where do you think men go wrong with women?

Margaret: When they forget the little things.

MMA SPORTS: What is the weirdest thing that ever happened to you?

Margaret: Participating on a reality show.

MMA SPORTS: What do you have a weakness for?

Margaret: Blue eyes and abs.

MMA SPORTS: Who would you like to be for a day?

Margaret: The queen of England... just to feel what it's like to be "real" royalty.

MMA SPORTS: What 3 things can’t you live without?

Margaret: My daughter, My mom and Nutella.

MMA SPORTS: One bedroom tip for men?

Margaret: Listen to what she says and don't try too hard.

Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa, LLC.

WEC 41 Knockout of the Night only lasted 8 seconds when Jose Aldo finished Cub Swanson with a flying knee followed by punches.

Page 45 MMA SPORTS

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The man, the myth, Brock Lesnar shocked the world when the WWE star captured the UFC Heavyweight Championship defeating Randy Couture by TKO in the second round.

Photos by Josh Hedges/Zuffa, LLC.

Photos by Josh Hedges/Zuffa, LLC.

A free-spirited, eccentric wild child...

MMA SPORTS: What nationality are you?

Hayley: I’m Australian born and bred with a South African background and I am currently living in Los Angeles, California.

MMA SPORTS: Turn ons?

Hayley: As corny as it sounds I love confidence, a man that can take charge without being cocky or pushy is always a winner for me. I’m also a sucker for a good kisser.

MMA SPORTS: Turn offs?

Hayley: A guy that tries to sell me on his money or his status rather than for who he is makes me want to run for the hills.

MMA SPORTS: Describe yourself in one sentence?

Hayley: A free-spirited, eccentric wild child that thrives on adventure and music.

Interviewed by Elie for MMA SPORTS® Photos: FOTOART BY DRE © MMA SPORTS®

MMA SPORTS: What do you do with your free time?

Hayley: I love traveling and seeing new places, especially if there’s outdoors or a beach involved. Guess that’s the Australian in me (laughs).

MMA SPORTS: What kind of clothing on a guy would catch your attention?

Hayley: I like the right mix of classy and sexy. A man in a button-up always catches my attention.

MMA SPORTS: What would you wear to seduce a man?

Hayley: It really depends on the man, but my first choice is either a skin-tight dress that hugs all the right places or some well fitting jeans to keep it casual.

MMA SPORTS: What’s the perfect date if someone was to take you out?

Hayley: I’m not an overly serious person, so I’d say something lighthearted to get to know each other first. A day at the beach, a casual lunch or something in a group setting would be fine with me.

MMA SPORTS: Have you ever made the first move on a guy?

Hayley: I have actually and he ended up being my boyfriend for over a year. There had been flirting and dates but he hadn’t made a move, so I just kissed him.

MMA SPORTS: What do you have a weakness for?

Hayley: Intelligence, power and tattoos.

MMA SPORTS: How do you maintain that amazing body?

Hayley: I love to hike, swim and go to the gym. I also love to cook and keep my diet as natural and clean as I can.

MMA SPORTS: What’s your sexiest feature?

Hayley: Probably my lips.

MMA SPORTS: What’s in store for you in the future?

Hayley: I’m working on a music project that I’m really excited about and I can’t wait to roll it out.

..a skin tight dress that hugs all the right places

W

hen it becomes necessary for a list like this to appear in a magazine like ours, it might be time for a little foresight on the part of many would-be Mixed Martial Artists.

I'm going to explain it to you in a fistful of words: There is nothing to prepare a fighter for MMA, besides the cage itself. This is a brutal sport, in which you are asked to dampen or endure attacks of all kinds. You must protect yourself from kicks to the knees, jabs to the chest, elbows to the face, and make sure the referee catches that thumb in your eye. With that, you've barely even scratched the surface of all you'll be opposed to in this game.

As the fight hits the ground, you have to withstand the whole striking arsenal, plus the grits of wrestling, the offense-first passing and advancement of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and the more extravagant metier of judo, plus much more. Results come with openness; caution to the wind.

The ways to win are almost without boundary in MMA, and fidelity to by-the-books fighting might just put you on your back.

The best defensive boxer, the smoothest grappling skills -nothing without total conformance to the cage and the cage only.

That is absolutely not to say that one cannot succeed in MMA while having success in a particular martial art.

Plenty of fighters have done so.

Semmy Schilt, a standout in Ashikara Kaikan Karate, stood close to seven feet when he chose to embark on a career in MMA. One of a very select group of fighters, Schilt won the championships of respected organizations in both kickboxing and MMA. His start in the latter came in a thriving Pancrase organization in 1996. Even with his physical gifts, he dropped seven of his first twelve MMA fights, losing three times by submission. Proving that no one can begin the long road to being a world class MMA fighter without having to be tested.

By 1999, Schilt was 13-9, having avenged early losses to MMA greats Masakatsu Funaki and Guy Mezger, he went to become

the King of Pancrase. He did so emphatically, submitting veteran Yuki Kondo in the first round.

Schilt wouldn't lose for six more fights before hitting a wall -soon-to-be UFC champion Josh Barnett. He would win three more in MMA before crossing the road to kickboxing. He began his career in Mixed Martial Arts with a losing record but would close his turbulent campaign on an exceptional 17-3-1 run, before faltering in Pride as his focus on MMA had began to ebb.

Some fighters, perhaps only the most hideously brilliant, can be consistently good at crossing between sports. Mirko Filipovic is an example of that. He began a highly-successful MMA career as he had chosen, for the time being, to close shop on kickboxing. He fought against the very best of Pride in the early 2000s and only lost twice in his first twenty fights -- against Antonio "Minotauro" Nogueira and Kevin Randleman. He would win the Pride Grand Prix title in 2006, and continue to be a mainstay in top promotions such as Pride, Dream, and the UFC in the years to come. Six years after his Pride Grand Prix win, in 2012, he became the K1 World Grand Prix champion, and currently stands 23-8 in Kickboxing and 31-11-2 in MMA; one of the most dominant and influential strikers to ever appear in either sport.

It can work well both ways, whether you are beginning in another sport and ending in MMA, or vice versa. It might come down to striking while the iron is hot, and making an honest effort towards learning something you do not know already.

For anyone whose confidence tides a bit too high, he'll take his losses, learn from his missteps, and sink or swim. Not every fighter has the qualities necessary to crossover to MMA, and he will learn that emphatically. Have mercy on anyone who had scoff this process of becoming a Mixed Martial Artist.

Let us cut to the chase. Here are the ten biggest disappointments, flops, whatever you may have it, in the history of MMA transitions!

Photos by Josh Hedges/Zuffa, LLC.

By Corey Quincy for MMA SPORTS速

10.

STEFAN LEKO (Muay Thai and kickboxing champion; 0-3 in MMA)

Stefan Leko earned his admission to this list for one reason only -- he crossed over at his peak.

German-Croat Leko was at the very peak of his kickboxing career when he tried out MMA. 29-years-old, but very ripe at that, Leko scored some of his greatest wins in 2003. He defeated great fighters in Peter Aerts, Fransisco Filho, and Kazunari Murakami over a 6-0 stretch (5-0 in K1) before jumping ship to Mixed Martial Arts. The brutal bonanza he had going in kickboxing would not follow his way.

Fellow list-maker Naoya Ogawa did as he wanted for the 1:34 his bout with Leko would last, before scoring a submission. Defeats to Ikuhisa Minowa and Katzuhiro Nakamura would follow as Leko continued his brief career in PRIDE unbridled by his kickboxing aspirations. Those defeats would soon change his mind and help him shake off his affinity for the cage, and return to kickboxing where he belonged after lasting just over two-and-a-half minutes in MMA. Shockingly, Leko would return to his sport as good as he'd left it. A win in Romania nabbed him the WKN Super Heavyweight title, but the real fruits came in his next fight as he devastated Badr Hari with a spinning back kick KO. There were no excuses in this one, and I think that's why Leko belongs in this list. He had almost a year-and-a-half, a full focus to MMA and a driven mentality he had proven over his first seven years in kickboxing. It wasn't enough to bring him some success,or an exit from the first round, in his crossover.

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9.

BADR HARI (105-12 in kickboxing; stopped in 22 seconds of only career MMA bout)

Did you know that Badr Hari was once a Mixed Martial Artist?

It's true. Early in his career, seeking some window to break through in the world of combat sports, the decorated to-be K1 champion was 1-1 in his Kickboxing career. A virtual unknown, he needed someone to take notice.

What a better way than fighting -- any time, anywhere, and under any set of rules you'll find? That was, seemingly, the only strategy the seventeen year old Hari could think of at the time.

His unrelenting aggression and vibrant persona made him into a massive attraction once his career kicked off, but it appeared early on as if he were nothing more than a gauche teenager early on due to his limited technique and discipline. In 2002, he had his first and only MMA fight, and even if it wasn't indicative of what he would become, it was portent of the areas in which Hari would most struggle as a young kickboxer.

His opponent was Edmunds Kirsis, an able-bodied grappler, but not good enough to contend with any decent MMA fighter. Hari's kickboxing wasn't even assuring as of yet, and he was going in against this rugged, 231lb mack truck? A man, fifteen years his elder, against a boy? It wouldn't end well as Kirsis easily swept up Hari's initial kick -- a slow, unsure shot -- and put him on his back. Then, the man would hustle and catch Hari in a forearm choke. Easy enough, he would tap out at 0:22 of round one and never again compete in the cage.

8.

MASAAKI SATAKE (Seido-Kaikan practitioner; K1 Grand Prix winner; 1-8-1 in MMA)

Masaaki Satake's career was a great one. In K1, he was competitive against top names such as Peter Aerts, Maurice Smith, Andy Hug, Ernesto Hoost, Akio "Musashi" Amori, among others, and was a standout athlete in Kazuyoshi Ishii's Seidokaikan-style Karate.

His performances stood out, as he was renowned for his fast-pace, all-action style. Even as a Super Heavyweight, he would look to back his opponents up and set up crisp strikes from early on.

He began an ill-advised pursuit of MMA in 2000, when he was already 34-years-old. Satake was submitted in 1:14 by neck crank against Mark Coleman. He would go 1-6-1 in his next fight, his only win coming against Kazunari Murakami at Pride 10.

By December 2002, Satake was out of Pride, after having won only a single fight under their banner.

He would face legendary submission artist Hidehiko Yoshida in what would be his final bout at Antonio Inoki's New Years Eve "Bom Ba Ye 2002" event. As he came in, he would succumb to Yoshida's neck crank just fifty seconds into the fight.

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7.

PAUL SLOWINSKI (four-time Muay Thai world champion; two-time K1 champion; 106-21-1 in Kickboxing; 1-2 in MMA) A member of the hundred-win club in kickboxing, and a vehement Muay Thai striker, Slowinski began MMA fighting at age 32. He seemed to have a more serious outlook than most on this list. He travelled to train with the Blackzillians ahead of his debut, and, also much unlike many on this list, won his first fight with a nasty head kick and follow-up attack.

His fate would take a turn for the worse soon as he stepped up in class to compete under the KSW banner. A prominent promoter of MMA in his home country, they saw a chance for Slowinski to be a popular Mixed Martial Artist. He was pitted against Marcin Rozalski, who had no trouble in making him tap to a Rear-Naked Choke by 4:32 of round one. He would be knocked out in his next fight, and, so far, has yet to return to the cage.

6.

JEROME LE BANNER (80-22-2 in Kickboxing; undefeated in Boxing; 3-2 in MMA)

Jerome Le Banner could've been a world-class MMA fighter.

He has been amongst the very best in Kickboxing for nearly two decades, and even had a successful career in boxing and pro-wrestling. He was athletic, formidable, and refused to give ground unless absolutely necessary.

Unfortunately, his MMA career has consisted of only five fights. He did escape with a winning record, but, sadly, only fought a couple of times while at the height of his career.

To his credit, he does have a win over Yoshihiro Akiyama, and held his own in a mixed-rules bout against Bob Sapp. I could accept his contentment with these other forms of combat if he hadn't needed to showcase Satoshii Ishii in 2010, losing a slow and miserable fight. With his natural punching power and superb striking ability, he could've been much more in our great sport had he put his mind towards it. Nevertheless, his MMA career was a certain flop.

5.

NAOYA OGAWA (Legendary Judo practitioner; 7-2 in MMA)

Tab another for greatness came too late.

Naoya Ogawa was one of the greatest Judo practitioners of the modern era. He won medals in the World Judo Championships seven times, five of which were gold, and a silver medal in the 1992 Olympic games.

If MMA had been blossoming in popularity in the late 1980s as it is now, Naoya Ogawa would have probably been a superstar in the sport. You could say that about many practitioners of combat arts -- sure -- but, even at age 31, he looked poised to make a run in Pride. He began his career 7-0, but that came over the course of seven years.

Admittedly, even if he had been more active, he probably still would have never toppled the brick wall that was Fedor Emelianenko in 2004, and the submission specialist that was Hidehiko Yoshida at his best.

Those back to back submission losses to Fedor and Yoshida ended his career at a 7-2 mark in late 2005.

Not unlike some of the other names on this list, Ogawa's entry is a matter of potential, if he were to have focused his career around MMA, the beast he might have become. There are many others with whom you could say the same, but that is probably not the case in my next selection.

4.

JAMES TONEY (Three-division boxing champion; submitted by Randy Couture in lone MMA bout) It is heartbreaking to watch a pugilist who has gone on too long.

Muhammad Ali might be the most striking example, and the list goes on all too far with the names of pro boxers who've taken just one or one-hundred too many punches, and it already has or will prove consequential for them in the future. To see a boxer give MMA a try at age 42; an omen of such disaster it must be.

The only reason James Toney makes this list is due to his own marketability. His name rung a bell and the UFC was eager to place him in with Randy Couture when he himself was 47-years-old and well on the decline. It was a distasteful match-up for the chief-supporting bout of a UFC Pay-Per-View, but it happened, and "Lights Out" was forced to tap in the first round, 3:19 in.

As opposed to many on this list, it is not quite a matter of unfulfilled potential, or old age, but a lack of belonging. Toney was never meant to be anything but a prize fighter.

He was 72-6-2 in boxing when he decided to make the "switch" to face Couture. There was money there and, faux bad blood at the least, so the fight happened. Let's hope one like it never comes again.

3.

MARK KERR (Collegiate wrestling champion; UFC Heavyweight tournament winner)

A two-time UFC Heavyweight tournament winner, as well as a 190lb collegiate wrestling champion at Syracuse, Mark "The Smashing Machine" Kerr had built himself a career destined for greatness by age 30. He was 11-0, a popular showman of Pride, when his run was slowly but surely deterred by his heightening struggles with injuries, and abuse of painkillers. His life spiralled off course and out from underneath him when he looked to have taken the Mixed Martial Arts world in his hand.

After the harvesting a triple crown of Heavyweight tournament wins in the UFC, Mark Kerr would sign with Pride Fighting Championships and fight a gauntlet of their best contenders from 1998 to 2001, winning his first four bouts without issue. In September of 1999, his run of explosive finishes was up as Igor Vovchanchyn stopped him with knees to the head while he was grounded, but, since this was illegal, the bout was ruled a no-contest after originally being called a win for Vovchanchyn.

This did signal a retrogression in Kerr's career in the cage, as he would lose in the second round of Pride's Heavyweight tournament verses Kazuyuki Fujita, and the ensuing turmoil would see him lose two of his next three fights in Pride. Tattered by the pressure fighting bestowed upon him, Kerr would enter retirement for three years, but his future hung in the balance not for that, but for issues in which he carried in the cage and out.

It would be revealed that Kerr had been abusing painkillers for much of the extent of his career in Pride, and entered rehab following and overdose on painkillers in October 1999. He was released in December, and returned to PRIDE to fight in the 2000 Grand Prix tournament, where he would lose to Fujita in the second round. His final loss while he was still relevant within the sport came at Pride 27, where Kerr knocked himself out while lunging in for a takedown against Yoshihisa Yamamoto during his 2004 comeback. He would drift into obscurity in the coming years, but, still today, serves as a potent reminder of the anguish bound to the hearts of some fighters, each time they pour theirs out in the cage.

Simultaneously, the grim outlets many turn to cork a very troubled mind.

The transition to a fighter's lifestyle left him bereft of his own hunger to compete, as did his abuse of narcotics; so spelled his end. "The Smashing Machine," a documentary which chronicled the life of Mark Kerr, premiered on HBO in 2003.

2.

RICARDO MAYORGA (31-8-1 former two-division champion in boxing; 0-3 1 NC in MMA)

Ricardo Mayorga, a two-time Junior Middleweight boxing champion from Nicaragua was best known for his insolent remarks outside the ring and his free-swinging hands on the inside.

No one wanted to deal with Mayorga, because fights with him and the press conferences beforehand were certain to be nettling for both combatants. He was easy to hit, certainly easy not to like, but he was a true showman whenever he came to town.

The start of his MMA career fittingly came on both sides of the cage. The theatricals were all in place, pre-fight trash talk and stare-downs over with, and his debut came in his native Nicaragua against unheralded Canadian Wesley Tiffer, whom he managed to dispatch in the second round.

Unfortunately for Ricardo, the decision wouldn't uphold the scrutiny of the Nicaraguan commission. They ruled that the finish materialized from a clear and blatant foul -- a knee to the spine of Tiffer -- not a scoring blow, thus rendering it a no contest.

His string of audacious press conferences and errant displays continued as Mayorga met Rene Martinez in his next fight. Martinez submitted him at 1:39 into the first round. His complete lack of any sort of grappling disposition, besides not being able to grapple at all, remained prevalent thereafter. Sergio Ortiz Rodriguez, a native of Costa Rica, would defeat him handily, but a split decision verdict left Ricardo Mayorga a chance for the first rematch of his MMA career. He would lose that rematch via armbar at 4:23, and the joke that was his MMA career was over before the start of 2014.

1.

KIMBO SLICE (Infamous street-fighter and pop-culture icon; 4-2 in MMA)

Kimbo Slice, a street bruiser from Florida by way of the Bahamas, got his start through the prestigious, no-holds-barred science of street fighting.

He became an internet sensation through videotapes of his street brawls with anyone and everyone willing to take him on in the bright lights of backyards, garages, parking lots...dumpsters, maybe. His first true MMA fight was hardly such as he defeated 46-year-old former pro boxer Ray Mercer in an exhibition match. Soon, under the tutelage of the Elite MMA camp, Slice beat club fighter Bo Cantrell and 42-year-old Tank Abbott, before taking on his first honest, live opponent in James Thompson, a Pride and Cage Rage veteran.

Slice demonstrated his ability to draw an audience using his characteristic animosity. 6.51 million viewers tuned in for EliteXC: Primetime, a show in which he headlined, on May 31st, 2008, on CBS. It was the first ever MMA show to air on network television in primetime. He would win in the third round of a fight in which he was behind on the scorecards, but was lucky enough to clobber Thompson with a few heavy blows and prompt an early stoppage; one which amounted immense criticism amongst both MMA purists and fans of the freak-show that Slice had become.

Unfortunately for him, his gasp of furor was about to end; before anyone might have the time to intervene. Slice was knocked out fourteen seconds into his next fight against Seth Petruzelli, a last-minute replacement for Ken Shamrock. EliteXC soon dissolved, and Slice joined the UFC and competed in "The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights."

Roy "Big Country" Nelson stopped him in the second round of their opening-round tournament bout. After a poor performance, albeit in victory, over a disinclined Houston Alexander, Slice lost to Matt Mitrione at UFC 113 and was subsequently cut from the promotion.

Slice hasn't fought an MMA fight since, but did box for a brief stretch, going 7-0 against journeymen in prize ---fighting. He returns on June 20th at Bellator 138 against Ken Shamrock.

THE ARM TRIANGLE STEP BY STEP Arm Triangle

Photo 1 - Anderson Silva on the bottom with Andre Galvao in his half guard.

Photo 2 - Silva tries to take his back off the mat for a sweep.

Photo 3 and 4 - But Galvao quickly wraps up the Silva’s neck.

Photo 5 - In order to protect himself against a guillotine choke, Silva drops back to the mat.

Photo 6 and 7 and 8 - And Galvao rolls over him, locking in an arm triangle as he drops down.

Photo 9 and 10 and 11 - Galvao wraps up Silva’s arm with his right leg, tightening the position even further and sealing the fight.

2

1

3

STEP BY STEP

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

with Anderson Silva and Andre Galvao

4

In the past issues I have focused on common injuries that occur in MMA. An equally direct effect on the success of a fighter is the competency of his corners. How they coach, whether they have awareness of their limitations, and their willingness to not let their ego interfere are all important aspects of a good corner. For that reason a professional cutman is essential to provide the skills that a standard corner cannot do alone. Many times a promotion does not offer that option or a camp does not welcome it. Too many times I have seen obvious mistakes and shortcomings of corners who fail to crossover to effectively help their fighter in the way a true cutman can, including fighter injury management and taping hands. Let’s look at some of the common examples I have observed:

By David Maldonado for MMA SPORTSÂŽ www.mmasportsmag.com

FEATURE

Page 79 MMA SPORTS

FEATURES

Page 80 MMA SPORTS

what is needed, not what looks busy 1. Do or familiar So often I see corners wiping off a fighter with a towel, forgetting the benefit of a slippery fighter.

I’ve had the same happen after I’ve prepared a fighter for the next round; essentially wiping away all advantages I’ve given them. If it doesn’t give the fighter an advantage, don’t do it.

you don’t know the anatomy behind the 2. ifdecision, ask for help How a hand is taped, where a fighter is best cooled with an icebag (assuming they need that), or how Vaseline is applied to a fighter. In each case and beyond, I see countless errors that go unnoticed by the unaware. The take home message is simply to question everything (including YouTube or things seen from other corners) and gain a clear rationale, being willing to learn from other trained people.

If you don’t arrive prepared, you aren’t the 3. person for the job Do not arrive to a show assuming gloves, taping supplies, or other crucial items will be available.

Do not purchase cheap product from the local pharmacy. Have scissors, QUALITY medical scissors (EMT shears do not qualify).

Fight night isn’t the night to try something new, to see if you can do a task properly. Your fighter needs the best skill he can find and if there is a resource nearby that can fill the void for you, be willing to let others assist. Think of every possible situation you might encounter on a given night and have the tools or information needed to get the job done right.

MMA SPORTS: What nationality are you?

Brittany: Irish, German, and Scottish.

MMA SPORTS: Best pick up line you’ve heard?

Brittany: "Girl, it looks like you have been double dipped in pretty sauce!" (laughs) at least he tried to be original, and he made me laugh.

MMA SPORTS: What do you do with your free time?

Brittany: I like to go to beach, I'm a total beach bum! I am also a huge people person, so I love spending time with my family, friends, and of course, my dog, Louis V.

I would wear fishnets and a garter belt, paired with a sexy heel MMA SPORTS: What would you wear to seduce a man?

Brittany: I would wear a lace black bra with a matching lace thong. I would wear fishnets and a garter belt, paired with a sexy heel.

MMA SPORTS: If a guy had 5 minutes to get your attention, what should he do?

Brittany: He should do something out of the ordinary and show me he's not like every other guy. Ask me about myself and actually show he is listening to what I'm saying, and tell me about himself. I don't want him to be all over me, but show me he is interested. He should be making me smile every minute he gets, and just ask if he could take me out for a drink sometime (something casual).

Interviewed by Elie for MMA SPORTS® Photos: FOTOART BY DRE © MMA SPORTS®

...my waist and my boobs MMA SPORTS: What’s your sexiest feature?

Brittany: I would say my waist or my boobs.

MMA SPORTS: What is the weirdest thing that ever happened to you?

Brittany: I got asked out by my best friends ex boyfriend that I used to have double dates with!

No thanks (laughs).

MMA SPORTS: How do you maintain that amazing body?

Brittany: Exercise and eating healthy.

MMA SPORTS: What do you have a weakness for?

Brittany: Bad boys with sexy style.

MMA SPORTS: What in store for you in future?

Brittany: You will see me on VH1 coming very soon and after that, the sky is the limit.

By Mike Denny for MMA SPORTS® Holm was a “known name” in fight circles because of her long history in boxing/kickboxing, but she broke through in a massive way in 2015 when she knocked out the seemingly unbeatable Ronda Rousey and became a UFC Champion..

Former TUF winner Ferguson went 3-0 on the year, beating Josh Thomson, Gleison Tibau, and Edson Barboza. Ferguson went from TUF guy to title contender in the blink of an eye.

One part Karate Kid, one part Zack Morris, Sage Northcutt came out of nowhere late this year to be one of the most talked about fighters in the sport. Exciting fight style and a physique on part with some body builders, Sage made a big splash in his debut and will look to continue that in 2016.

Former Olympian Cejudo was also 3-0 on the year, and appears to be next in line for Demetrious Johnson, and seems like he could just be the biggest threat in the division to the title.

Team Alpha Male fighter Cody “No Love� Garbrandt has the skill, work ethic, and look to be the next big thing in the sport.

After 2 impressive wins in the UFC, Cody seemed poised for a huge 2016 and a possible top spot in this list next year.

Holly shocked the world when she dethroned the champ Ronda Rousey this year, but it wasn’t just the fact that she won, it was the way she won.

Knocking Rousey out cold, with a viscous head kick that was heard around the world.

Conor put Aldo to sleep with a beautiful counter punch at only 13 seconds into the first round, to become the Featherweight Champion and possibly the most popular fighter in the world.

Kato performed a Superhero style finish over his opponent Joe Schilling when he landed a thunderous Superman punch early in the second, leaving his foe in a heap on the mat.

Felder made a name for himself in the MMA scene when he knocked Castillo out in brutal fashion, after landing a perfectly timed spinning back fist.

Makwan’s UFC debut was over before most people even knew it started, as he landed a flying knee and followed it up with a barrage of punches, winning his debut in a whirlwind of violence at 8 seconds into the first round.

Conor McGregor is a man of many names. Mystic Mac, Notorious, The King of Dublin, UFC Champion, and now, MMA Sports Fighter of the Year. Conor’s meteoric rise to stardom seemingly happened overnight. He went from a rising contender early in the year when he destroyed Denis Siver, to a household name and fan favorite before knocking out Chad Mendes.

What happened after that was a whirlwind of shit talking, call outs, predictions, and swagger that launched him into worldwide super stardom before his title fight with long time champion Jose Aldo.

Conor obliterated Aldo leaving him unconscious and face down on the mat in only 13 seconds, cementing himself in the history books, and at the top of this list.

The UFC Lightweight Champion may have only fought twice in 2015, but those fights were enough. He started the year off with a huge win, and dominating performance over Anthony Showtime Pettis to become champion, and then closed off the year with a one sided and quick beat down of the Cowboy Donald Cerrone.

The former Strikeforce Middleweight Champion had a great year in the UFC. Not only did he submit Lyoto Machida, which is a major accomplishment in itself‌ but he followed that win up by, running through Chris Weidman to bring home the UFC Middleweight title.

This team Renzo Gracie fighter and now Bellator Champion seemingly came out of nowhere to beat both Emanuel Newton and former UFC Champion Tito Ortiz (with a slick inverted triangle) to keep his record unblemished at 11-0.

Max rounds out this list after going on a tear and reeling off 4 wins in 2015, those wins include names like Cub Swanson, Charles Oliveria, and Jeremy Stephens. An impressive year for the hard hitting Hawaiian.

Blood, Sweat, and Gold. All three of those things were on display in what I am calling not only the fight of the year, but potentially one of the best fights of all time.

Lawler and Rory stood toe to toe and threw down for almost 25 minutes straight.

It was exhausting, frantic , and beautiful all at the same time. In the end, Lawler was able to stop MacDonald late in the fight, to keep his title and prove once again that he is just as dangerous in the 5th, as he is in the 1st.

You can rarely use the word “slobberknocker” in life, but when describing this fight it is perfectly acceptable! This was a back and forth slugfest with both men being hurt and knocked down, before Arlovski was able to seal the deal.

Here’s another word you might not use every day, “Barnburner” and that’s exactly what this fight was. Gaethje got the finish in a thriller to remain unbeaten and find himself on a slew of top 5 fight lists in 2015.

Bellator 135 saw this scrap, which was just about as exciting as a fight can get. A nice back and forth display of MMA resulting in a razor thin decision win for Davis.

This fight was a good ol’ fashion brawl. Both fighters came to throw down, and that’s what they did until Bermudez was dropped and stopped early.

Joanna Champion has had a dominant and impressive year as she basically walked through all 3 of her opponents, to keep her title and move her record to a perfect 11-0. There’s a good chance she tops this list again next year, as she has looked almost untouchable as of late.

Holly as states before made a huge statement beating Rousey and becoming champion in her class, she made a statement, and for that earns another spot on the MMA SPORTS “Top 5” list.

Thug Rose looked amazing when she easily beat fan favorite Paige Vanzant, and TUF cast member Angela Hill going a perfect 2-0 on the year. Seems like Rose is finally putting it all together and could be inching closer to a title shot in 2016.

“Claudinha” may have only fought once this year, but it was a big win over Jessica Aguilar, which should have her very close to getting a rematch with our #1 Joanna Champion.

In the first fight many people argue Gadelha won, so a rematch could be big for her and the UFC as well.

Tonya has been getting shit done for a long time, and is having a career resurgence lately winning 8 straight including 2 more this year in Invicta. Evinger will look to continue her win streak which should see her getting a shot in the UFC sometime soon, if that’s what she is looking to get.

What better way to bring home the title, then to bring it home with a submission win over a dominant Heavyweight Champion and MMA star Cain Valesquez.

Werdum dismantled Cain on the feet before locking in a fight ending guillotine.

The undefeated Serra-Longo fighter made a statement when he kept his unbeaten streak alive, by snatching a win by Arm Triangle over Takeya Mizugaki at UFC on Fox 15

2 words‌.Flying Triangle. Enough said.

McGeary pops up again in the year ending best of list, for his impressive win over the Huntington Beach Bad Boy Tito Ortiz. Not only was it a big win, but the win came by way of inverted triangle.

Tito is not easy to submit, but Liam made it look pretty easy.

Zingano made the mistake of rushing Ronda as soon as the bell rang, 14 seconds later she was tapping out to a Ronda signature move, the armbar. Rowdy was able to lock onto the arm and force a tap as soon as the opening was there. A very slick win for the former champ.

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