“A true champion is one who sweats from exhaustion when no one is watching.”
On today’s livestream, we welcome one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time, a legendary figure who transcends fight sports and has become hugely popular outside the octagon.
Bas Rutten, aka “El Guapo,” is a former UFC Heavyweight Champion and three-time King of Pancrase World Champion, boasting a remarkable career record of 28 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw.
He ended his career on an impressive 22-fight unbeaten streak with a unique fighting style that blended devastating striking and grappling, incorporating elements of Karate, Muay Thai, and Taekwondo.
His prowess is underlined by his 12 knockout victories and 13 submission wins, with only three fights relying on the judges out of an impressive 28 victories. His strike accuracy was recorded at 70.6%, the highest UFC’s FightMetric has ever recorded.
Bas’ journey into martial arts reads something like an 80’s Hollywood coming-of-age movie. Terrorised by bullies on a daily basis due to a crippling skin disorder and suffering from intense bouts of asthma, his childhood was oftentimes lonely and uncomfortable.
He sought solace in nature and spent his days running and hiding from the next confrontation until he discovered the world of Bruce Lee through his iconic movies. Bas became obsessed and begged his parents to allow him to train in martial arts. The rest, as they say, is history.
Bas earned a 2nd-degree black belt in Taekwondo and Kyokushin Karate and a 5th-degree black belt in Shintai Karate, and the bullies were forgotten to the sands of time.
His transition to professional fighting was less than straightforward. He made a name for himself thanks to his energy and natural charisma both inside and outside the ring. Despite his devastating striking, Bas experienced setbacks early on, losing three times by submission.
Ever the student, he resolved to improve his ground game and subsequently remained undefeated for the rest of his career. His significant victories include wins over prominent fighters such as Frank Shamrock (twice), Kevin Randleman, Maurice Smith, Masakatsu Funaki, and Guy Mezger.
“I am proud of the fact that I went into this Mixed Martial Arts game as a striker, lost three times by submission, and told myself, ‘No more losing.’ I started focusing on the ground game and then never lost a fight again… From my 28 wins, I had only four decisions, 11 KOs, and 14 submission victories, so I went in as a ‘striker’ and in the end had more submission victories than KOs.”
Bas’ most memorable fights include his title victories and rematches against fighters who had previously defeated him, such as Frank Shamrock and Masakatsu Funaki, while his victory over Kevin Randleman saw him crowned UFC Heavyweight Champion, and later awarded a spot in the UFC Hall of Fame in 2015.
His life outside the ring only enhanced his reputation and mystique. From late-night parties and bar room brawls to spending a couple of nights in a Swedish mountain prison – yes, you read that right – Bas’ life so far has been one crazy journey.
In more recent times, Bas has somewhat switched gears but with no less enthusiasm. Beyond his fighting career, he has become a prominent figure in the media and entertainment industry. He has worked as a commentator for various organisations, including a hugely popular stint with Pride. Today, he lends his expertise and insight to the world of Karate Combat.
He has also carved out an impressive niche as an actor, appearing in numerous television shows and movies. His most notable roles include appearances in TV series like “Martial Law” and “The King of Queens,” as well as movies such as “Shadow Fury” and “Here Comes the Boom.”
He also appeared in the groundbreaking documentary “The Smashing Machine,” which followed the tumultuous career of his good friend Mark Kerr. That story is now headed for the big screen with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson at the helm and Bas also set to play a prominent role.
Bas’ contributions to MMA continue, with no shortage of fighters looking to leverage his insights and expertise. He also created the O2 Trainer, a pioneering breathing device that increases cardiovascular endurance and breathing performance – a testament to his own issues and one that has helped countless people suffering from respiratory illnesses.
Bas Rutten’s career is marked by skill, determination, and versatility, not just as a fighter but as a human being. His ability to adapt and excel inside the octagon extends to his approach and success away from fighting. His huge personality has made him incredibly popular with fans from all walks of life, while his legacy continues to inspire new generations.
I’m really looking forward to this one. Bas is someone I’ve wanted to get on the show for a long time. He’s an inspiration and, without doubt, one of the greatest fighters to have ever competed. With so much experience and wisdom to share and a hunger to seek out new challenges, I know this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Be sure to tune in and spread the word far and wide.
“I want to be a man who can overcome his weaknesses, vices, and imperfections. A man who’s not a slave to his passions and desires, but a real man who’s in control of himself.”
