The ICEMAN!!!
Former UFC light-heavyweight champion Chuck Liddell is a firm favorite among fans. Having fought from the early days of MMA, ‘The Iceman’ became UFC champion aged 35 in 2005. We didn’t know back then, but Liddell’s career was getting ready to wind down.
‘The Iceman’ had only lost twice in the six years prior to his title win, and he’d extend the streak with four straight title defenses. When UFC 71 came around in 2007, Liddell was sadly destined to lose five of his next six bouts.
Liddell’s Later Career
After losing the belt to Rampage, Liddell’s only future win was against Wanderlei Silva during a three-round thriller. Losses to Rich Frabklin, Kieth Jardine, Shogun Rua and Rashad Evans saw ‘The Iceman’ retire in 2010.
Seven years later, and Liddell still looks in great shape. Last week we saw the ex-champ smashing the pads in the gym, now another video has surfaced from Liddell’s gym ‘The Pit.’
Background
In case you were thinking this was some kind of brutal hazing, it’s not. Facing a guy as scary as Liddell in the ring, even in sparring, is a rite of passage for these aspiring martial artists, and besides, Chuck isn’t like that.
Watch as Liddell dances circles around his students, landing some potshots in the process:
Liddell’s Legacy
During his storied career, Liddell had a great trilogy of fights with Randy Couture. ‘The Natural’ had shocked ‘The Iceman’ in their first fight, finishing the better striker with punches.
When they met for the first and second time, ‘The Iceman’ was cold in his calculations, and returned the favour in brutal fashion. Now long-retired, the former light-heavyweight boss is still very highly regarded.
Should the UFC ever create a legends league, its highly likely guys like Liddell would dominate. For now, though, ‘The Iceman’ remains a well paid UFC exec!
