Issue 205
May 2024
Fighters Only’s social media editor, Ryan Burnyeat, picks out his highlights from the past month on MMA social media.
HISTORIC HARDWICKS: BROTHERS IN ARMS
Harry Hardwick and George Hardwick make Cage Warriors history! An electric atmosphere inside the Vertu Motors stadium in Newcastle helped roar Harry Hardwick to a hard-earned victory, picking up the vacant lightweight title and cementing the boys from Boro’ as the first-ever brothers to hold Cage Warriors titles simultaneously. Talk about sibling rivalry on a whole new level – now they've got matching belts! Who needs a family crest when you’ve got championship gold?
https://www.instagram.com/p/C7d-8yPMH5j
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION
Filming begins for “The Smashing Machine,” the highly anticipated biopic based on the legendary Mark Kerr and his meteoric ascent to the top of the UFC. The makeup team for the film is exceeding expectations, as Dwayne Johnson is almost unrecognizable in this image shared on his Instagram page. Mark Kerr’s life story is one of triumph, turmoil, and ultimate redemption. From dominating the Pride FC and UFC arenas to battling personal demons, Kerr's journey is a testament to the brutal beauty of MMA. This film promises to pull no punches, showcasing the highs and lows of a fighter who smashed his way to glory only to face his most challenging battles outside the ring. Stay tuned for a gripping look at the man behind the myth, brought to life by none other than the biggest movie star on earth.
https://www.instagram.com/p/C7Ozq4ER3AZ/
THE SLAP THAT ALMOST WENT TOO FAR
This Power Slap edit is so smooth it could slide uphill and make you question whether it’s real. Power Slap sees competitors face off in a test of sheer willpower and pain tolerance. Unlike traditional MMA, there's no ducking or dodging here – just one colossal slap after another. It's a sport that’s as wild as it sounds, combining the intensity of a knockout punch with the spectacle of a viral internet challenge. With each thunderous slap, fans are left on the edge of their seats, wondering who will stand tall and who will hit the floor.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7JngW1u3hV/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link 
A LEGEND BEGINS
May 21, 2000 – 24 years ago today, the legendary Fedor Emelianenko made his professional MMA debut.
Fedor Emelianenko, often hailed as "The Last Emperor," is a name that echoes through the halls of MMA history. With a career that spanned over two decades, Fedor's legacy is built on his unparalleled skill, stoic demeanor, and an unbeaten streak that saw him dominate the Pride FC heavyweight division. Known for his devastating ground-and-pound, crisp striking, and ironclad submission game, Fedor has faced and defeated some of the toughest fighters in the world, cementing his status as one of the greatest heavyweights ever. This black-and-white photo of Fedor captures the timeless essence of his career. The monochrome palette emphasizes his fights' raw intensity and emotion, stripping away the distractions and highlighting the sheer determination in his eyes.
https://www.instagram.com/p/C7PGHZzR76k/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
GENIUS AT WORK
Islam Makhachev is next level, and we have the article to prove it in this issue. Dive into our in-depth analysis that cements his status as one of the best wrestlers in the game today. Makhachev’s wrestling is nothing short of incredible, blending traditional techniques with unparalleled athleticism and strategic prowess. Although it’s relatively well known that Makhachev has incredible grappling ability, this breakdown really brings it to light. https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6CNPDtNh6h/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
