Background of the Fight
Cro Cop, also known as Mirko Filipovic, and Brendan Schaub are two of the most renowned names in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). Their fight, which took place on June 6, 2015, at the UFC 189 event, was a highly anticipated matchup that brought together two fighters with contrasting styles and backgrounds.
Cro Cop: The Croatian Sensation
Mirko Filipovic, better known as Cro Cop, is a Croatian mixed martial artist who has made a name for himself in the heavyweight division. With a background in sambo and judo, Cro Cop is known for his striking prowess, particularly his lethal head kicks. His career has been marked by numerous victories, including a notable win over Fedor Emelianenko in Pride FC.
Brendan Schaub: The American Contender
Brendan Schaub, on the other hand, is an American mixed martial artist with a background in wrestling and boxing. Schaub has been a staple in the UFC heavyweight division for several years, known for his resilience and ability to absorb punishment. Despite facing some setbacks, Schaub has consistently been a formidable opponent for anyone in the division.
The Fight: A Tale of Two Styles
The fight between Cro Cop and Brendan Schaub was a clash of styles, with Cro Cop’s striking and Schaub’s wrestling and boxing prowess on full display. The fight was divided into three rounds, each showcasing different aspects of the fighters’ abilities.
| Round | Cro Cop | Brendan Schaub |
|---|---|---|
| First Round | Striking | Wrestling |
| Second Round | Striking | Wrestling |
| Third Round | Striking | Wrestling |
First Round: The Opening Salvo
The first round of the fight was a showcase of Cro Cop’s striking ability. The Croatian fighter landed several powerful head kicks and punches, keeping Schaub on the defensive. Schaub, however, managed to land a few shots of his own, including a solid uppercut that had Cro Cop reeling.
Second Round: The Tension Builds
The second round saw Cro Cop continue to dominate with his striking, landing several more head kicks and punches. Schaub, however, began to show signs of fatigue, and his wrestling attempts became less effective. The round ended with Cro Cop in control, but the fight was far from over.
Third Round: The Final Push
The third round was a back-and-forth affair, with both fighters exchanging shots. Cro Cop landed a series of head kicks that had Schaub on the canvas, but the American fighter managed to recover and continue the fight. In the end, it was Cro Cop who landed the final blow, a head kick that sent Schaub to the ground, leading to a TKO victory for the Croatian fighter.
Aftermath: The Legacy Continues
The fight between Cro Cop and Brendan Schaub was a memorable one, with both fighters leaving their mark on the heavyweight division. Cro Cop’s victory solidified his status as one of the best strikers in the history of MMA, while Schaub’s resilience and determination were on full display.
As the years go by, the fight between Cro Cop and Brendan Schaub remains a highlight of the UFC 189 event, a testament to the incredible talent and skill that exists in the world of mixed martial arts.