Background of the Event
The Pride FC 20 event, held on October 14, 2017, at the Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, Japan, was a pivotal moment in the world of mixed martial arts. One of the most anticipated matchups of the evening was the featherweight bout between the Brazilian legends, Cro Cop and Wanderlei Silva. Both fighters had storied careers and a plethora of achievements, making this fight a must-watch for fans around the globe.
Cro Cop: The Croatian Sensation
Cro Cop, full name Mirko Filipovic, is a Croatian mixed martial artist and former K-1 World Grand Prix Champion. Known for his striking prowess and iconic headbutt, Cro Cop has been a dominant force in the heavyweight and featherweight divisions. With a record of 13-5 in MMA, he has faced some of the best in the business, including Wanderlei Silva.
Wanderlei Silva: The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Maestro
Wanderlei Silva, also known as “The Axe Murderer,” is a Brazilian mixed martial artist and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt. With a record of 35-11 in MMA, Silva has been a staple in the sport since the early 2000s. He has faced numerous legends, including Chuck Liddell, Rich Franklin, and Wanderlei Silva himself.
The Lead-Up to the Fight
The build-up to the Pride FC 20 event was intense. Both fighters had been preparing for this fight for months, and the hype was palpable. Cro Cop had been on a three-fight winning streak, with his last victory coming against Hideo Tokoro. On the other hand, Wanderlei Silva had been inactive for over a year, coming off a loss to Wanderlei Junior.
The Fight: A Battle of Legends
The fight between Cro Cop and Wanderlei Silva was a classic battle of styles. Cro Cop, with his striking background, looked to finish the fight with a knockout, while Wanderlei Silva, with his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills, aimed to take the fight to the ground and submit his opponent.
| Round | Analysis |
|---|---|
| 1st Round | Cro Cop dominated the first round, landing heavy punches and kicks. Wanderlei Silva struggled to find his rhythm, and the Brazilian was on the defensive for most of the round. |
| 2nd Round | The second round was a different story. Wanderlei Silva landed a series of punches that wobbled Cro Cop, and the Brazilian looked to be in control. However, Cro Cop managed to recover and finish the round strong. |
| 3rd Round | The third round was a back-and-forth affair. Both fighters traded punches, and the crowd was on their feet. In the end, it was a split decision, with the judges scoring the fight 29-28, 28-29, and 29-28 in favor of Wanderlei Silva. |
Aftermath of the Fight
Despite losing the fight, Cro Cop received a standing ovation from the crowd. The fight was a testament to his resilience and heart. Wanderlei Silva, on the other hand, was pleased with his performance, as he had been on a losing streak before this fight.
Legacy of the Fight
The Pride FC 20 fight between Cro Cop and Wanderlei Silva will be remembered as one of the greatest battles in MMA history. The fight showcased the best of both fighters, and it will be talked about for years to come. Both legends have left their mark on the sport, and their careers will always be remembered with respect and admiration.