https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFe5VfPwWVU
One of the first MMA fights I watched when getting into the sport was Urijah Faber vs. Jose Aldo.
The incredible punishment that “The California Kid” took in that contest left me almost sick to my stomach.
We all remember the leg welts that Aldo placed on Faber, who never quit and never backed down despite all the punishment he took.
At the time, in my eyes, Faber was the face of those “lighter” divisions. He had a cool “gimmick,” was out-spoken and well-regarded.
Now, this Saturday night, he says UFC on FOX 22 will be his final fight as he takes on Brad Pickett from Sacramento.
While many will rip Faber down for never winning UFC gold, his resume is that of a legend.
– Nine wins in the UFC’s bantamweight division, a record.
– Six finishes in the UFC’s bantamweight division, a record.
– Six submissions in the UFC’s bantamweight division, a record.
– He also successfully defended the WEC featherweight title five times, winning eight bonuses in the promotion.
Faber is on the Mount Rushmore when you are talking weights under 155 pounds without a shadow of a doubt.
He’s beat the likes of Eddie Wineland, Raphael Assuncao, Jens Pulver (twice), Jeff Curran, ONE world champion Bibiano Fernandes, Charles Bennett and even Dominick Cruz.
The Faber-Cruz rivalry has been an interesting one to say the least. The two were cast to coach on the first – and only – live season of The Ultimate Fighter.
So on Saturday night, even if he decides to come out of retirement and fight again down the road, make sure you check in and watch Faber just in case this is his last time stepping inside the Octagon.
