Author: Dan Hiergesell

10 Fighters Most Likely to Have a Breakout 2013

Breaking out often defines the sport of mixed martial arts.  It’s what makes the action inside the cage so unpredictable and the dedication outside of it completely and utterly essential for success.In the past, dedicated and focused fighters have…

Breaking out often defines the sport of mixed martial arts.  It’s what makes the action inside the cage so unpredictable and the dedication outside of it completely and utterly essential for success.

In the past, dedicated and focused fighters have found their niche in becoming the next big thing in their respective divisions. 

But what makes these breakout candidates even more noticeable is the fact that they come from all walks of life.  Whether it’s a young prospect trying to catch his break in the big show or an on-the-fence veteran facing a mid-career crisis, the epitome of a breakout star is not encapsulated by a sole definition.

By understanding this, we’re able to distinguish who has what it takes to outshine their competition and take the MMA world by storm in 2013.  Here’s a brief list consisting of these notable names ready to take the next step toward a rewarding breakout.

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Benson Henderson vs. Gilbert Melendez Head-to-Toe Breakdown

Currently looking for his third straight title defense in the UFC lightweight division, pound-for-pound great Benson Henderson is set to welcome former Strikeforce champion Gilbert Melendez to the Octagon this Saturday night on FOX.It’s Henderson’s sec…

Currently looking for his third straight title defense in the UFC lightweight division, pound-for-pound great Benson Henderson is set to welcome former Strikeforce champion Gilbert Melendez to the Octagon this Saturday night on FOX.

It’s Henderson’s second championship appearance on live television and arguably his toughest test to date. He’ll have to be on top of his game to out-pace, out-hustle and out-duel the always formidable boxing of “El Nino.”

For Melendez, this is his first shot to show the world that he belongs in the big show, fighting in the big fights. He’ll finally get a shot to translate his elite skills from Strikeforce to the UFC.

Warranting an early setback from either Henderson or Melendez, this five-round battle should be epic.  Here’s how the initial head-to-toe breakdown pans out.

Enjoy.

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10 Unsung Fighters with UFC Titles in Their Futures

Some fighters do everything in their power to capture the stardom and respect that the sport of mixed martial arts so often delivers.But no matter how hard they fight, how hard they battle, they still find themselves situated behind the more polarizing…

Some fighters do everything in their power to capture the stardom and respect that the sport of mixed martial arts so often delivers.

But no matter how hard they fight, how hard they battle, they still find themselves situated behind the more polarizing figures in the sport.

That endless struggle to find some sort of consistent exposure and recognition within their respective divisions helps fuel a mindset of needing to prove one’s worth.

Well, in order to pull the blinds back and push these budding contenders to the front of the line, here are 10 unsung fighters with UFC titles in their future.

Enjoy.

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25 Most Intimidating Strikers in MMA History

In the past, mixed martial artists have earned the right to intimidate by looking mean, acting mean and performing even meaner.They’ve done so by channeling a certain type of inner beast.  One often depicted in movies such as Beowulf and Cloverfie…

In the past, mixed martial artists have earned the right to intimidate by looking mean, acting mean and performing even meaner.

They’ve done so by channeling a certain type of inner beast.  One often depicted in movies such as Beowulf and Cloverfield.

From bone-splitting punches to chin-smashing kicks, these physically and mentally superior athletes have marked the cage with blood, sweat and destruction for nearly 20 years.

With that said, based completely on intimidation, here are the best of the best when it comes to instilling fear and doubt.

Enjoy.

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Ranking Every MMA Knockout of 2013 So Far

From the UFC to Bellator, World Series of Fighting to amateur Alaskan bouts, the MMA world has witnessed a variety of knockouts thus far in 2013.Whether it was a head kick in the first round or a powerful barrage of punches in the eyes of defeat, diffe…

From the UFC to Bellator, World Series of Fighting to amateur Alaskan bouts, the MMA world has witnessed a variety of knockouts thus far in 2013.

Whether it was a head kick in the first round or a powerful barrage of punches in the eyes of defeat, different fighters have put forth their own effort to provide spine-tingling finishes.

Here are the best knockouts of 2013 so far.  Enjoy.

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UFC 158: What’s Next for Nate Marquardt?

Nate Marquardt did not look like himself Saturday night at UFC 158 opposite the heavy-handed Jake Ellenberger.Sure, Marquardt stepped in for Johny Hendricks who moved up to fight Carlos Condit, but fans expected much more from “The Great” in his Octago…

Nate Marquardt did not look like himself Saturday night at UFC 158 opposite the heavy-handed Jake Ellenberger.

Sure, Marquardt stepped in for Johny Hendricks who moved up to fight Carlos Condit, but fans expected much more from “The Great” in his Octagon return.  He didn’t deliver.

Now, as a 33-year-old veteran riding a two-fight losing streak, Marquardt will be forced to either reinvent his approach to fighting or look for greener grasses

Here are five things the former Strikeforce welterweight champion can do next on the heels of a devastating defeat.

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