As we near the 18-year mark since Pride FC’s final event on April 8th, 2007, nostalgic sentiment for the iconic Japanese MMA promotion has started to creep back.

Pride represents an era of mixed martial arts that will never be replicated – a pioneering time when nothing was outside the realm of possibility. Not yet sanitized or strictly beholden to weight classes, it offered elite combat and shocking entertainment, with the two threads often intertwined.

With that in mind, relive some of its most memorable highlights with 10 of the most insane Pride moments ever.

10

Ikuhisa Minowa Wins One Of Many ‘Freakshows’ Against Giant Silva

Japanese Star Grew Reputation For David Vs. Goliath Battles

• The Japanese fighter outweighed by 200lbs.
• It shows the true spirit of martial arts.
• One of many ‘Freakshow’ fights in Minowa’s career.

No list of Pride’s unique memories would be complete without their infamous “freakshow” fights, and one man who was always front and center in them was Ikuhisa “Minowaman” Minowa.

The 5’9″, 181-pound Japanese grappler was no stranger to a David vs. Goliath battle, and his clash against “Giant” Silva at Pride Bushido 10 stands out as one of the craziest.

Clocking in at 7’2″ and 385 pounds, professional wrestler and former basketball player Silva was a monster of a man, albeit one with very little martial arts experience besides a crash course in BJJ under the Gracies.

Minowa made the most of this skill disparity and took “Giant” down early. The colossal Brazilian seemed stranded, unable to get his hulking mass off the canvas.

“Minowaman” capitalized and finished his rival with a barrage of grounded knees to Silva’s body and head at 2:33.

9

Ryo Chonan’s Incredible Submission Of Anderson Silva

“Piranha” Scores Epic Win Over Future Legend

• The Japanese fighter finished a UFC great.
• Rare flying entry into heel hook.
• One of MMA’s craziest finishes.

Hindsight has given Ryo “Piranha” Chonan’s incredible submission over Anderson “The Spider” Silva more kudos, but even without his rival’s Hall-of-Fame UFC career, the Japanese grappler’s submission remains one of the best ever.

At 7-4, he faced the 14-2 Brazilian striker in front of 48,000 fans at Pride Shockwave 2004, the mammoth New Year’s Eve event.

Silva stung his foe with heavy strikes throughout the contest, but Chonan’s grappling ability saw him have success with ground-and-pound. Still, coming into the final frame, the match was still up for grabs.

With a couple of minutes remaining, “Piranha” launched into a flying scissor attack that put Silva onto the canvas and then secured an inside heel hook to elicit a frenzied tap from “The Spider” at 3:08.

8

Fedor Emelianenko Survives Kevin Randleman’s Suplex

Russian Heavyweight Legend Showcases Durability

• Randleman proves his immense power.
• No quit from “The Last Emperor.”
• Goes on to secure win via submission.

Fedor “The Last Emperor” Emelianenko’s unbeaten run in Pride’s heavyweight ranks made him a legend.

He earned a perfect 14-0 slate with 1 No Contest en route to three title defenses, though there were some scary moments along the way.

Kevin “The Monster” Randleman’s wince-inducing suplex at Pride Critical Countdown 2004, was one of them, as the American wrestler sent Emelianenko soaring through the air until his head and neck met the ring floor with a thud.

Against many other fighters, that would have been enough for victory, but Fedor rallied back from underneath, reversed to top position, and then finished Randleman with a kimura after an exhilarating 93 seconds.

7

Mark Hunt’s Famous Atomic Butt Drop

“Super Samoan” Throws Out MMA Rulebook

• Hunt up against it against surging Wanderlei Silva.
• Throws out textbooks with his unique technique.
• Admits it was influenced by Street Fighter.

Although he was an experienced kickboxer, Mark “Super Samoan” Hunt entered his matchup against Wanderlei “The Axe Murderer” Silva at just 1-1 in MMA.

Meanwhile, Silva was on a 17-fight unbeaten streak in the promotion, with 13 of those victories coming by vicious stoppage.

Hunt picked this time to draw on his gaming skills to unleash the move he called the “E-Honda Special” – also known as the “Atomic Butt Drop.”

With the Brazilian on his back, “Super Samoan” wanted to avoid any dangerous upkicks, so he chose to attack his foe butt first.

While jaw-dropping, it didn’t have much impact on the fight, but Hunt still went on to win a shocking split decision over the surging Silva.

6

Hammer House Meets Chute Boxe In Post-Fight Melee

Mark Coleman erupts after win over Mauricio Rua

• American and Brazilian rivals erupt in ring.
• Famous fighters throwing leather after the bell.
• Coleman, Wanderlei, Ninja all involved.

American wrestling Olympian and UFC pioneer Mark “The Hammer” Coleman took on a rising star in Mauricio “Shogun” Rua at Pride 31, but it was the post-fight incident that lives long in the memory.

Coleman won the match when Rua broke his arm during a takedown, but incensed by “The Hammer” seemingly continuing when the referee tried to intervene, the Chute Boxe stable took to the ring and instigated a melee.

Among punches and grabs, Coleman managed to stand on Wanderlei Silva’s neck while he was on the floor, and the American’s father even put his dukes up at the side of the ring.

5

Kazushi Sakuraba Snaps Renzo Gracie’s Arm

Japanese star continues dominance against Gracie family

• Sakuraba becomes ‘The Gracie Hunter.’
• Renzo refuses to tap.
• Legendary rivalry continued.

Kazushi Sakuraba earned the moniker of “The Gracie Hunter” after defeating four members of the famous BJJ family, but it was his gruesome victory over Renzo Gracie that left the biggest impression.

With wins over Royler and Royce Gracie, Sakuraba faced Renzo in a grudge match at Pride 10.

Wanting to restore some family pride, the Brazilian battled hard in the first round of their contest. However, after chasing Sakuraba’s back, he came unstuck with just seconds remaining.

The Japanese icon latched onto a kimura and ripped himself free before depositing Gracie on the mat. From there, he cranked and broke his rival’s arm.

Too proud to tap, Renzo held on until the referee stopped the fight at 9:43 due to the serious injury.

4

Quinton Jackson Spoils Dana White’s Trade Plan

“Rampage” finishes Chuck Liddell

• Dana White wanted Chuck Liddell to meet Wanderlei Silva.
• “Rampage” blasts UFC favorite.
• Went on to become a huge favorite in the USA.

In a move that tempered any enthusiasm UFC president Dana White had for trades, Chuck “The Iceman” Liddell was sent to take part in the Pride Middleweight Grand Prix Tournament at Pride Final Conflict 2003.

They had their eyes set on a superstar clash between Liddell and Wanderlei Silva, which looked likely when “The Iceman” blitzed past Alistair Overeem in the opening round.

However, American compatriot Quinton “Rampage” Jackson had other ideas. After a hard-fought battle, Jackson slammed Liddell to the ground and got the TKO finish, leaving White bewildered as a guest commentator.

“Rampage” went on to the final, where he was obliterated by the in-form Silva.

3

Charles Bennett Vs. Chute Boxe

A Chokeout And A Knockout Behind The Scenes

• A volatile American gets into a scuffle backstage.
• Longtime claims finally surface.
• Piece of Japanese MMA folklore.

Backstage goings-on were just as much a part of Pride folklore as the in-ring action, and “Felony” Charles Bennett – then known as “Krazy Horse” – was a central feature.

The American wild man had his fair share of dustups, but the most famous is his altercation with the Chute Boxe team at Pride Shockwave 2005.

Video footage shows Bennett getting into a fight with Cristiano Marcello in the back room, where he is choked out by the Brazilian.

However, for years the rumor was that Bennett woke up and knocked out Wanderlei Silva – something “The Axe Murderer” long denied.

Silva finally admitted it, stating that the American sucker punched him and put him out cold, with the major twist being that the Brazilian was due to fight minutes after.

He did, and went on to defeat Ricardo Arona in an epic battle despite being separated from his senses shortly before heading out.

2

Quinton Jackson’s Powerbomb

Epic Slam Finish Over Ricardo Arona

• “Rampage” slams his way to mindblowing win.
• Becomes a highlight-reel sensation.
• Remains one of the most-watched MMA KOs.

Quinton “Rampage” Jackson is on the list with arguably his most famous career moment and one of the best KOs in Pride history.

The big-punching, heavy-slamming American was a fan favorite in Japan for his persona and skills, and he went up against BJJ specialist Ricardo Arona at Pride Critical Countdown 2004.

After watching him win ADCC in 2000, 2001, and the super fight in 2003, nobody wanted to be on the ground with Arona. So, when the Brazilian locked up a triangle, everyone thought it was over. Everyone apart from Jackson, that is.

“Rampage” utilized his superhuman strength and powerbombed his way out of the submission, knocking Arona out in the process for a massive victory.

1

Don Frye And Yoshihiro Takayama’s Legendary Battle

Pair Engage In One Of MMA’s Greatest Slugfests

• USA vs. Japan hockey-style brawl.
• Cited as one of the best fights of all time.
• Frye now UFC Hall-of-Fame Inductee.

There are levels to the game when it comes to iconic moments and not many can match Don Frye vs. Yoshihiro Takayama.

UFC Hall of Famer Frye faced pro wrestler Takayama in a heavyweight tilt at Pride 21 and the result was scenes that would seem too farfetched for a movie screen.

The pair charged at each other, took collar ties, and blasted away with punches from a nose-to-nose position.

A respite in the action was a big takedown and knee from the Japanese athlete, but then they resumed their hockey scrap until they were both bloodied and bruised.

Frye eventually found himself in top position where he punched his way to victory after 6:10, but few cared about the result after one of MMA’s all-time great brawls.

Fans continue to await the official fight announcement for a monumental heavyweight title unification bout between reigning champion Jon Jones

and interim titleholder Tom Aspinall

.

This matchup, anticipated to be one of the most significant in UFC history, has been the subject of extensive negotiations, with both logistical and financial considerations at play.​ However, Dana White has given a definitive update on the bout taking place.

Dana White’s Affirmation: “The Fight’s Going to Happen”

The UFC CEO Says It’s Official But A Date Is Yet To Be Confirmed

UFC President Dana White has consistently expressed optimism regarding the fruition of the Jones vs. Aspinall fight.

In a recent interview with TNT Sports, White stated, “The fight’s going to happen. It’s just a matter of when now, getting it signed and done.”

He further elaborated:

“It’s done, but it’s not done-not done enough to sit right here now and announce it and give you a date. But the fight is going to happen.” White did not elaborate on the reason that a date hasn’t been scheduled.

Jon Jones’ Rumored Six-Month Preparation Request

This Is A Potential Point Of Contention

A significant factor influencing the scheduling of the fight is Jon Jones’ request for an extended preparation period. A report from Ariel Helwani indicates that Jones has asked for six months to prepare once the fight is officially confirmed, potentially pushing the bout to September 2025.

This request has been met with mixed reactions within the MMA community. Former UFC fighter and analyst Chael Sonnen expressed confusion over Jones’ timeline, stating, “It’s interesting to me that Jon would need six months to prepare for this fight.” Additionally, some fans have voiced frustration, perceiving the extended timeline as a delay in delivering a highly anticipated matchup. ​

Beyond scheduling, financial terms have been a pivotal aspect of the negotiations. Following his victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, Jones made it clear that a substantial financial incentive is crucial for him to accept the fight against Aspinall. He candidly stated, “I want that f*** you money.”

While specific figures have not been publicly disclosed, it’s evident that both parties are working diligently to reach a mutually agreeable financial arrangement.​

When Will Jones vs. Aspinall Happen?

The Interim Champ Is Getting Impatient

The UFC initially targeted UFC 317 on June 28, 2025, in Las Vegas for this marquee event. However, Jones’ reported request for a six-month preparation period could necessitate rescheduling to a later date, potentially in September.

However, Aspinall has been adamant he wants to fight soon and doesn’t care if it’s Jones across the octagon. He has been the interim champion since November 2023 and is long overdue a title unification bout.

Summary

• Leon Edwards aims to make a statement with a win at UFC Fight Night 255.
• Both Edwards and Sean Brady seek redemption from their prior losses to Belal Muhammad.
• Betting odds favor Sean Brady due to recent performances, but Edwards is expected to put up a tough fight.

The UFC

returns to London on March 22, 2025, for

UFC Fight Night 255
featuring a pivotal welterweight main event between former champion Leon Edwards and rising contender Sean Brady. This bout holds significant implications for the welterweight division, as both fighters aim to campaign for a potential title shot with a win.

Leon Edwards Has To Make A Statement

Both Fighters Want To Avenge Their Losses To Belal Muhammad

Leon Edwards is renowned for his technical striking and well-rounded skill set. After capturing the welterweight title in August 2022 with a stunning knockout of Kamaru Usman, Edwards successfully defended his belt twice before losing it to Belal Muhammad in July 2024 by unanimous decision. This upcoming fight marks his first appearance since that loss, and he is determined to reclaim his status in the division in front of a hometown crowd.

Sean Brady has rapidly ascended the welterweight ranks with his grappling and relentless pressure. His sole professional loss came against current champion Belal Muhammad in October 2022. Since then, Brady has rebounded with notable victories over Kelvin Gastelum and Gilbert Burns.

Betting Odds For Leon Edwards vs. Sean Brady

Odds For The Co-Main Event Also

As of March 21, 2025, DraftKings Sportsbook lists the betting odds for the main event as follows:​

• Leon Edwards: +130 underdog​
• Sean Brady: -155 favorite​

These odds suggest that bettors favor Brady, likely due to his recent performances and Edwards’ recent loss. ​The odds also suggest that bettors believe Brady’s grappling skills will take him to a decision victory. Muhammad may have set a blueprint for defeating Edwards by mixing up striking and grappling, keeping a high pace throughout the fight. However, this strategy

didn’t work for Colby Covington
, who was defeated by Edwards in his second title defence.

For the co-main event, a light heavyweight clash between former champion Jan Blachowicz and rising star Carlos Ulberg, the odds are:​

• Jan Blachowicz: +240 underdog
• Carlos Ulberg: -298 favorite​

Ulberg’s status as the favorite reflects his impressive winning streak and striking abilities. Blachowicz has spent a lot of time away from the sport, and he is 42 years old; however, his last two losses were against the current and former champion, both of which were very close fights.

UFC London Fight Analysis

Predictions For The Biggest Fights On The Card

Edwards is known for his precision striking, tactical approach, and ability to adapt during fights. However, his previous bout exposed

vulnerabilities against high-pressure grapplers
. Former UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping emphasized the importance of Edwards adopting a more aggressive strategy, avoiding defensive mistakes like backing up against the fence, which cost him in his last fight.​

Brady’s game plan revolves around his exceptional grappling and wrestling skills. He averages 3.49 takedowns per fight with a 52% accuracy rate, complemented by an 85% takedown defense. His ability to control opponents on the ground and seek submissions makes him a formidable adversary for any striker.​

Prediction: Leon Edwards has shown elite wrestling defense and his performance against Belal was an exception. Therefore, I will give him the benefit of the doubt that the fight being scheduled in the early hours of the morning in the UK affected his performance. Leon Edwards by unanimous decision or late stoppage.

Co-Main Event Analysis

The co-main event features a light heavyweight clash between former champion Jan Blachowicz and rising star Carlos Ulberg. Blachowicz, known for his “Polish Power,” aims to reassert his dominance in the division. Ulberg, riding a seven-fight winning streak, seeks to establish himself as a top contender. Analysts are split, with some favoring Blachowicz’s experience and others pointing to Ulberg’s momentum and finishing ability.​

Prediction: Ulberg is yet to step in the octagon against a fighter of Blachowicz’s caliber. Despite his age, the Polish star is far from washed if we go by his last two performances, which were a controversial loss to Alex Periera and a draw with the reigning champion Magomed Ankalaev. Jan Blachowicz by knockout.