Issue 184
November -0001
Not all top fighters hit the ground running in MMA. For a variety of reasons, the following didn't make a winning start, but in the end all eight proved great
Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael Dos Anjos had the odds stacked against him on debut having to fight in the home town of his opponent, Adriano Abu, where he lost by a close split decision.
Amanda Nunes
Yes, she lost by armbar submission to Ana Maria India on debut, but Amanda Nunes now holds both the UFC bantamweight and featherweight titles simultaneously.
Mark Hunt
Kiwi, Mark Hunt was no newbie to combat sports, but his lack of grappling experience cost him in his first MMA bout as he lost by armbar to Hidehiko Yoshida.
Kazushi Sakuraba
Former professional wrestler, Kazushi Sakuraba lost his MMA debut by arm triangle to the more experienced and heavier opponent Kimo Leopoldo.
Renan Barão
After losing on debut to Joao Paulo Rodrigues, Renan Barão went on an incredible 32-fight win streak which saw him land the UFC bantamweight title.
Jacaré Souza
Former BJJ world champ, Jacaré Souza met former UFC welterweight title contender, Jorge Patino in his first bout at Jungle Fight 1, losing by knockout.
Cris Cyborg
Although she is currently one of the most feared women in MMA, Cris Cyborg started her career with a loss by kneebar to fellow rookie, Erica Paes.
Forrest Griffin
Debuts don't come much harder than that of Forrest Griffin, who lost to former two-time UFC tournament winner and UFC Superfight champion, Dan Severn.
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