Fighters Only

Issue 208

August 2024

Fighters Only’s social media editor, Ryan Burnyeat, picks out his highlights from the past month on MMA social media.

DOWNING THE CHAMPIONSHIP

Now that Dricus Du Plessis is back in the headlines, his past exploits are resurfacing, revealing a skill set every man wishes they had: the art of beer-chugging. The South African champ knows how to make a pint disappear faster than a takedown, and he proved it again by downing a beer in just two seconds. Fans were left in awe (and possibly a bit jealous) as the viral video showed Du Plessis accepting a challenge from an Australian TikToker, effortlessly slamming the pint as if it was just another day in the gym. It turns out he's as deadly with a brew as he is with a right hook—cheers to that!

https://www.instagram.com/p/C-2kWYMPgQG/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

TRUE COURAGE

George St-Pierre, widely regarded as one of the greatest to ever step into the Octagon, once revealed a surprising truth: "Every fight day is the worst day of my life." For a man who dominated the UFC and cemented his legacy as a legend, GSP’s candid admission sheds light on the intense fear that accompanied him throughout his career. Despite his countless victories and championship belts, St-Pierre confessed that the fear never truly disappeared. Each time he walked to the cage, he battled his opponents and his nerves and anxieties. It’s a humbling reminder that even the greatest warriors aren’t immune to the dread of fight night.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C-dPaXdxonl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

HEART OF A CHAMPION

In a sport where rivalries often turn bitter, Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya showed respect can still prevail. After a grueling battle at UFC 305, where Du Plessis secured a fourth-round submission victory, the two fighters shared a surprisingly heartwarming moment backstage. Despite the intense build-up and personal jabs exchanged before the fight, the newly crowned middleweight champion gifted Adesanya the African-themed jacket he had worn at the pre-fight press conference. Du Plessis expressed his admiration for Adesanya's journey, telling his family, "You’ve raised a great warrior." The gesture was more than just a peace offering; it was a sign of mutual respect between two elite fighters who left it all in the cage. It was a moment that transcended their rivalry and reminded us all that sportsmanship still has a place in the fight game.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-zPl3aMJlR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

FAN FRENZY: CREATING THE BUZZ

Things we love to see: you guys—our amazing fans—creating epic content around the Fighters Only World MMA Awards! Whether it’s hilarious memes, jaw-dropping artwork, or insightful breakdowns of the nominees, fans are turning up the heat on social media. The excitement is contagious as the MMA community showcases their passion and creativity, making the World MMA Awards more than just an event—it’s a full-blown celebration of the sport we all love. Keep those posts coming, and let’s keep the energy alive as we head towards the biggest night in MMA!

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-gV-lASn-o/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

SILVA’S UFC 101 MASTERCLASS TURNS 15

On August 8, 2009, Anderson Silva delivered one of the most unforgettable performances in UFC history. Silva faced former light heavyweight champion Forrest Griffin at UFC 101 in a fight that has since become legendary. What followed was a striking clinic that left fans in awe and firmly established Silva’s legacy as one of the greatest fighters ever. With his elusive head movement, precise strikes, and almost supernatural reflexes, he made Griffin look out of place in the Octagon. Silva dropped Griffin multiple times with ease, including a now-iconic right jab that seemed to defy the laws of physics. Fifteen years later, Silva’s dominance over Griffin remains a benchmark in MMA, a reminder of the Spider’s unparalleled skill and the magic he brought to the cage.