Sherdog has a write up of the five greatest MMA brawls of all time. You could quibble with some of their selections, but not their #1:
1. Melvin Manhoef vs. Evangelista “Cyborg” Santos
Cage Rage 15 “Adrenaline Rush” — Feb. 4, 2006; LondonAfter watching this fight, I lost all interest in B-movies that pit genetically engineered super-cobras against mutant Komodo dragons; there really is no more ringing an endorsement one can give a brawl. The stare-down alone was scarier than anything Hollywood has produced in years. In hindsight, it did not even begin to portend the insanity that awaited anyone lucky enough to be watching live. It bears noting that Manhoef was defending his Cage Rage light heavyweight title, but considering how both men fought, it seems more likely that they were fighting for a night with Jessica Alba.
Dizzying exchanges and feats of intestinal fortitude that defied human biology seemed to arrive with every passing moment, and neither fighter seemed interested in asking for or giving any quarter. With nearly two full rounds in the books, it looked like Santos had seized control of the bout. He employed brutal knees in the Thai clinch against Manhoef, who seemed to have no answer for the plateful of punishment being jammed down his throat.
It was then that Manhoef managed to break away and gather his senses long enough to realize there was only one way to win this fight. “The Hulk Out” was the foundation of Hulk Hogan’s success and consisted of his becoming temporarily immune to pain and basically bench pressing opponents into oblivion. Manhoef did the standard bearer proud, as he scored an incredible come-from-behind knockout win before promptly passing out from exhaustion.
Video of this classic is in the full entry.
[UPDATE] by Nick Thomas – Melvin Manhoef signs with Strikeforce, also being considered for Lawler fight:
MMA and kickboxing veteran Melvin Manhoef has signed a multi-fight deal with Strikeforce. FanHouse learned of the agreement Wednesday morning.
The Dutch fighter is also being considered as an opponent for Robbie Lawler on the upcoming Dec. 19 “Evolution” card in San Jose, Calif., but a prior fight commitment overseas may preclude him from taking the fight on short notice.
HT: mma.fanhouse.com
Strikeforce: Evolution coverage
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