One of MMA’s biggest fan-favorites delivered a violent performance 23 years ago today.
Chuck Liddell is a must-have when it comes to discussing the best entertainers, fighters, and knockout artists in UFC’s history.
‘The Iceman’ is seen as one of the mixed martial arts pioneers, having debuted in 1998 and gone on to thrill fans with memorable performances under the UFC and Pride banners.
Among Liddell’s violent finishes on the sport’s biggest stage was one devastating head kick that came in the co-main event of a crucial card in the context of the UFC’s rise to mainstream prominence.
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Chuck Liddell knocked Babalu Sobral out in just one round at UFC 40 with a head-kick
The UFC 40 pay per view took place on this day in 2002 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas. Headlining was a light heavyweight title clash described as the biggest fight in the promotion’s history at the time.
Before Tito Ortiz’s 78-second knockout against Ken Shamrock in their rematch, ‘The Huntington Beach Bad Boy’ broke the record for most successful title defenses at 205 pounds in their first fight. Ortiz won a 15-minute war with ‘The World’s Most Dangerous Man’ that was described by referee John McCarthy as a turning point for the UFC’s growth.
But that was not the only big result in the division 23 years ago today, as Liddell secured his first opportunity to fight for UFC gold in the co-main event with a brutal knockout against Renato ‘Babalu’ Sobral.
After three straight decisions brought his active winning streak to nine, Liddell added a tenth by returning to his violent finishing ways at the Brazilian’s expense.
Liddell sent Joe Rogan in a frenzy with his commentary after landing a head kick at the perfect time to knock Sobral out. He then attacked with ground and pound to end it after only two minutes, 55 seconds.
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Chuck Liddell vs Babalu Sobral, UFC 40 in Las Vegas at the MGM Grand on November 22, 2002. #DWCOTD pic.twitter.com/DZC0qikw6S— danawhite (@danawhite) January 22, 2016
While ‘The Iceman’ would go on to fall short against Randy Couture, he eventually found his way to the throne, and his reign included a rematch with a familiar foe.
Liddell knocked…
2025-11-23 02:00:00
