Background of the Fight
Cro Cop vs Frank Mir was a highly anticipated fight that took place on July 14, 2012, at the UFC on Fuel TV 9 event. The fight was a pivotal moment in the careers of both fighters, as it was a chance for Cro Cop to prove his worth in the heavyweight division and for Frank Mir to reclaim his title as the UFC Heavyweight Champion.
Fighters’ Profiles
Cro Cop, also known as Mirko Filipovic, is a Croatian mixed martial artist and former K-1 World Grand Prix Champion. He is known for his striking prowess and has been a dominant force in the heavyweight division since his debut in 2001. On the other hand, Frank Mir is an American mixed martial artist and former UFC Heavyweight Champion. He is known for his wrestling skills and has been a staple in the heavyweight division since his debut in 2001 as well.
Fight Statistics
| Stat | Cro Cop | Frank Mir |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 35 | 35 |
| Height | 6’4″ | 6’4″ |
| Reach | 78 inches | 78 inches |
| Record | 25-8-2 | 18-7 |
| Championships | 1 (K-1 World Grand Prix Champion) | 1 (UFC Heavyweight Champion) |
The Fight
The fight started with a bang, as both fighters exchanged punches in the opening seconds. Cro Cop landed a series of powerful kicks, but Mir managed to avoid the majority of them. The fight then transitioned into a grappling exchange, with Mir attempting to take Cro Cop down. However, Cro Cop was able to maintain his distance and avoid the takedown attempts.
As the fight progressed, Mir began to take control of the center of the cage, landing a series of punches and knees. Cro Cop, however, was able to counter with a powerful left hook that sent Mir reeling. The fight then went back and forth, with both fighters landing significant strikes.
Decisive Moment
The decisive moment of the fight came in the third round. Cro Cop landed a series of powerful kicks to Mir’s head, causing him to wobble. Mir was able to recover and attempt a takedown, but Cro Cop was able to escape and counter with a series of punches that sent Mir to the canvas. Mir was able to recover and continue the fight, but the damage had been done.
Result
The fight ended with a technical knockout in favor of Cro Cop at 4:30 of the third round. The victory was a significant one for Cro Cop, as it marked his first win in the UFC Heavyweight division. It was also a devastating loss for Frank Mir, as it marked the end of his reign as the UFC Heavyweight Champion.
Aftermath
The fight was widely regarded as one of the best heavyweight fights in UFC history. Both fighters received high praise for their performance, and the fight was a testament to their skill and determination. Cro Cop went on to have a successful career in the UFC, while Frank Mir continued to be a dominant force in the heavyweight division.
Conclusion
Cro Cop vs Frank Mir was a fight that will be remembered for years to come. The battle between two of the best heavyweight fighters in the world was a showcase of skill, determination, and heart. It was a fight that left fans on the edge of their seats and a fight that will be talked about for generations to come.