Background of the Fight
Cro Cop vs Pat Barry was a highly anticipated fight that took place on November 19, 2011, at the UFC on Fox: Evans vs. Davis event. Both fighters were known for their striking prowess and had a history of impressive knockouts. The fight was a pivotal moment in the careers of both fighters and had fans buzzing with excitement.
Fighters’ Profiles
Cro Cop, whose real name is Mirko Filipovic, is a Croatian mixed martial artist and former K-1 World Grand Prix Champion. He is renowned for his striking skills, particularly his head kicks, and has been a staple in the UFC since 2007. On the other hand, Pat Barry, an American fighter, is known for his knockout power and has been a part of the UFC since 2008.
| Fighter | Age | Height | Reach | Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cro Cop | 36 | 6’2″ | 76 inches | 25-10-2 |
| Pat Barry | 34 | 6’3″ | 76 inches | 25-10-1 |
The Build-Up
Leading up to the fight, both fighters engaged in a war of words, with each one claiming they would end the other’s career. Cro Cop, known for his confidence, predicted a quick knockout victory, while Barry vowed to prove he was the better striker. The hype surrounding the fight reached a fever pitch, with fans eagerly anticipating the showdown.
The Fight
The fight started with both fighters exchanging jabs and kicks. Cro Cop, as expected, showcased his head kick prowess, landing several powerful shots. However, Barry was not to be underestimated, as he landed a solid right hand that sent Cro Cop reeling. The round ended with both fighters showing their striking skills, but it was Barry who seemed to have the upper hand.
In the second round, Cro Cop landed a series of head kicks that seemed to have taken a toll on Barry. However, Barry managed to recover and landed a series of punches that had Cro Cop on the defensive. The round ended with both fighters showing their resilience and determination.
The third round was the turning point of the fight. Cro Cop landed a powerful left hook that sent Barry crashing to the ground. Barry tried to get up, but he was unable to continue. The referee stepped in, and the fight was declared a knockout victory for Cro Cop.
Aftermath
After the fight, both fighters expressed their respect for each other. Cro Cop credited his head kick for the victory, while Barry admitted that he was outclassed by the Croatian fighter. The fight was hailed as one of the best in UFC history, and it solidified Cro Cop’s status as one of the best strikers in the world.
Legacy
Cro Cop vs Pat Barry fight is often remembered for its high-level striking and the sheer power of the knockout. It showcased the importance of striking in mixed martial arts and highlighted the skills of two of the best strikers in the UFC. The fight has since become a classic and is often referenced when discussing the evolution of striking in MMA.