Cro Cop Highlight Reel: Go to Sleep
When it comes to the world of MMA, Cro Cop is a name that stands out. Known for his striking prowess and iconic headbutt, the Croatian fighter has left an indelible mark on the sport. In this article, we delve into the highlights of his career, focusing on his most memorable moments, and explore the story behind his famous “Go to Sleep” quote.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Cro Cop, whose real name is Mirko Filipovic, began his MMA journey in the early 2000s. He quickly gained attention for his striking skills, particularly his headbutt, which became his signature move. His rise to fame was meteoric, and he became one of the most dominant fighters in the Pride FC organization.
One of his most notable early victories came against Wanderlei Silva in Pride FC. The fight was a classic example of Cro Cop’s striking ability, as he dominated the Brazilian with his knees and punches. The fight ended with a spectacular headbutt that left Silva unconscious, marking the beginning of Cro Cop’s legend.
The Pride FC Era
Cro Cop’s time in Pride FC was a golden era for the organization. He faced off against some of the best fighters in the world, including Wanderlei Silva, Ant么nio Rodrigo Nogueira, and Fedor Emelianenko. Despite facing tough opponents, Cro Cop remained undefeated in Pride FC, solidifying his status as one of the greatest fighters in the history of MMA.
One of the most memorable fights of his Pride FC tenure was against Fedor Emelianenko. The fight took place at Pride FC 34: High Octane. Cro Cop showcased his striking skills, landing powerful knees and punches on the Russian giant. Although he was eventually submitted by Fedor, the fight was a testament to his skill and determination.
The Move to the UFC
In 2008, Cro Cop made the move to the UFC, where he continued to showcase his striking ability. He faced off against some of the best fighters in the UFC, including Heath Herring, Alistair Overeem, and Paul Buentello. Despite facing tough competition, Cro Cop remained a fan favorite, thanks to his entertaining style and memorable performances.
One of his most memorable fights in the UFC was against Alistair Overeem. The fight took place at UFC 85: Bedlam. Cro Cop dominated the Dutch fighter with his striking, landing powerful knees and punches. The fight ended with a spectacular headbutt that left Overeem unconscious, once again showcasing his signature move.
The “Go to Sleep” Quote
One of the most iconic moments in Cro Cop’s career is his “Go to Sleep” quote. The phrase became famous after his victory over Alistair Overeem in the UFC. After the fight, Cro Cop pointed to Overeem and said, “Go to sleep.” The phrase became a catchphrase and a symbol of his dominance in the sport.
The quote’s origin can be traced back to Cro Cop’s time in Pride FC. During a press conference, he was asked about his headbutt move, and he responded by saying, “Go to sleep.” The phrase quickly caught on, and it became synonymous with his fighting style.
Retirement and Legacy
Cro Cop retired from MMA in 2013, ending his storied career with a 13-4 record. Despite facing setbacks and injuries, he left a lasting impact on the sport. His striking skills, memorable performances, and iconic headbutt have made him one of the most memorable fighters in MMA history.
Today, Cro Cop is still a fan favorite, and his legacy continues to grow. His impact on the sport is undeniable, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest fighters of all time.
Year | Event | Opponent | Result |
---|---|---|---|
2001 | Pride FC 19: Return of the King | Wanderlei Silva | Win (Headbutt) |
2004 | Pride FC 34: High Octane | Fedor Emelianenko | Loss (Submission) |
2008
LIKE |