Cro Cop Stats: A Comprehensive Overview
Cro Cop, also known as Mirko Filipovic, is a name that resonates with fans of mixed martial arts (MMA). With a career spanning over two decades, Cro Cop has left an indelible mark on the sport. In this article, we delve into the various aspects of his career, providing you with a detailed look at his stats and achievements.
Early Life and Background
Born on May 17, 1977, in Osijek, Croatia, Mirko Filipovic discovered his passion for martial arts at a young age. He started training in judo and sambo before transitioning to wrestling and eventually finding his way into MMA.
Professional MMA Career
Cro Cop’s professional MMA career began in 2001 when he joined the K-1 organization. He quickly became a fan favorite with his striking prowess and charismatic personality. Here are some key stats from his MMA career:
| Year | Organization | Record |
|---|---|---|
| 2001-2004 | K-1 | 21-2 |
| 2005-2006 | Pride FC | 3-1 |
| 2007-2010 | Strikeforce | 5-2 |
| 2011-2013 | DREAM | 3-1 |
| 2014-2016 | ONE FC | 3-1 |
| 2017-2018 | Bellator | 2-1 |
Throughout his career, Cro Cop faced some of the best fighters in the world, including Alistair Overeem, Mirko Cro Cop, and Wanderlei Silva. Despite facing adversity, he remained a dominant force in the heavyweight division.
Notable Achievements
Cro Cop’s achievements in the world of MMA are numerous. Here are some of his most significant accomplishments:
- 2001 K-1 Grand Prix Champion
- 2003 K-1 Grand Prix Champion
- 2004 K-1 Grand Prix Champion
- 2005 Pride FC Open Weight Grand Prix Champion
- 2006 Pride FC Open Weight Champion
- 2007 Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix Champion
- 2011 DREAM Grand Prix Champion
These titles highlight his ability to adapt to different organizations and fight at various weight classes.
Striking Skills and Style
Cro Cop is renowned for his striking skills, particularly his knees and kicks. He has a unique style that combines speed, power, and precision. Here are some key aspects of his striking game:
- High Kick: Cro Cop’s high kick is one of his signature moves. It is fast, powerful, and has the potential to finish a fight with one shot.
- Low Kick: He is also adept at delivering low kicks, which can be used to set up his high kicks or finish opponents.
- Head Kick: Cro Cop’s head kick is another powerful weapon in his arsenal. It is often used to catch opponents off guard and finish them.
- Elbow Strike: He is also skilled in elbow strikes, which he uses to control the distance and set up his other strikes.
Cro Cop’s striking skills have earned him a reputation as one of the best strikers in MMA history.
Retirement and Legacy
Cro Cop officially retired from MMA in 2018 after facing off against Andrey Ko