Cro Cop: Best Fights
Cro Cop, also known as Mirko Filipovic, is a name that resonates with fans of mixed martial arts. With a career spanning over two decades, Cro Cop has been a dominant force in the sport, particularly in the featherweight division. In this article, we delve into some of his most memorable fights, analyzing the key moments and techniques that made them stand out.
1. Pride FC 2002: Cro Cop vs. Masakatsu Funaki
One of Cro Cop’s most iconic fights took place in Pride FC in 2002 against Masakatsu Funaki. This bout is often remembered for the legendary head kick that Funaki landed, which was one of the most spectacular knockouts in MMA history. However, it was Cro Cop’s resilience and determination that truly stood out.
| Round | Key Moments |
|---|---|
| 1st | Cro Cop landed several head kicks, but Funaki managed to avoid them. |
| 2nd | Funaki landed a head kick that shattered Cro Cop’s nose, but the Croat fought back. |
| 3rd | Cro Cop landed a series of head kicks, eventually forcing Funaki to submit. |
Despite suffering a broken nose, Cro Cop showed immense heart and determination, ultimately submitting Funaki with a triangle choke in the third round.
2. Strikeforce: Cro Cop vs. K.J. Noons
In 2010, Cro Cop faced K.J. Noons in Strikeforce, a fight that was highly anticipated due to their contrasting styles. Cro Cop, known for his striking prowess, went up against a wrestler with a solid knockout record. This fight showcased Cro Cop’s ability to adapt and his relentless pressure.
The first round was a back-and-forth affair, with both fighters landing significant strikes. However, it was Cro Cop who landed the cleaner shots, including a powerful left hook that wobbled Noons. In the second round, Cro Cop continued to apply pressure, eventually forcing Noons to submit with a rear-naked choke at 2:30.
3. DREAM: Cro Cop vs. Hiroyuki Takaya
One of Cro Cop’s most memorable fights in DREAM was against Hiroyuki Takaya. This bout took place in 2008 and was a classic example of Cro Cop’s striking ability. The fight was a back-and-forth affair, with both fighters landing significant strikes.
In the first round, Takaya landed a series of head kicks that wobbled Cro Cop, but the Croat managed to recover and landed a powerful right hand that sent Takaya to the canvas. In the second round, Cro Cop continued to apply pressure, eventually forcing Takaya to submit with a kneebar at 3:30.
4. Bellator: Cro Cop vs. Andrey Koreshkov
Cro Cop’s last notable fight was against Andrey Koreshkov in Bellator in 2015. This fight was a rematch of their previous encounter, which took place in DREAM. The first fight was a controversial split decision win for Koreshkov, but Cro Cop sought revenge in Bellator.
The fight was a back-and-forth affair, with both fighters landing significant strikes. However, it was Cro Cop who landed the cleaner shots, including a powerful left hook that wobbled Koreshkov. In the second round, Cro Cop continued to apply pressure, eventually forcing Koreshkov to submit with a triangle choke at 2:30.
Cro Cop’s career is filled with memorable fights, showcasing his incredible striking ability, resilience, and determination. These four fights highlight his evolution as a fighter and his ability to adapt to different styles and situations.