Michael Bisping is one of the most decorated UFC fighters of all time, amassing nearly 40 appearances in the octagon while putting British MMA on the map.
Now an esteemed broadcaster, ‘The Count’ swiftly made a name for himself when he claimed the middleweight title back in 2016, following an enthralling battle with combat sports legend Anderson Silva.
In doing so, Michael Bisping became the first ever British UFC champion, before moving up to light heavyweight in a bid further cement his greatness.
And yet, despite his many accolades, the widely celebrated warrior no longer holds two of his most stunning records in the 185 lb division.
Brad Tavares breaks Michael Bisping’s records at UFC Fight Night 244
MMA’s flagship promotion returned to the UFC Apex, Las Vegas, on Saturday, with Brandon Royval outpointing Tatsuro Taira in a thrilling flyweight battle.
Before the main event, though, was an intriguing middleweight contest between seasoned campaigner Brad Tavares and lethal sharpshooter Jun Yong Park.
And it was Park who ultimately emerged victorious, handing Tavares his fourth loss in five fights after edging a fiercely-contested split decision through three rounds.
But despite suffering the 11th defeat of his career, Tavares was nonetheless able to break two of Bisping’s middleweight records.
For starters, the 36-year-old now holds the all-time record for most middleweight outings, securing his 25th bout after he was previously tied with Bisping at 24.
What is more, the American also has a total fight time of 5:22:35 – again, the highest in his UFC division’s history – with his British counterpart remaining just behind at 5:15:15.
Additionally, Tavares was handsomely rewarded for his historic night, with his UFC Promotional Guidelines Compliance pay totalling at $21,000.
What is next for Brad Tavares following his defeat to Jun Yong Park?
It is fair to say that, at this late stage in his career, Tavares will struggle to once again reach the upper echelons of his sport.
But still, he has the opportunity to break another of Bisping’s records, as a win would put the pair level on 16 victories in UFC middleweight history.
It is, however, a tough ask for the American, whose future in the UFC now hangs in the balance.
Nevertheless, Tavares has succeeded in forging a legacy for himself, displaying his remarkable durability in previous fights against the likes of Israel Adesanya and Dricus Du Plessis.