#1: Steve Cantwell debuts in style – UFC Fight Night 16 – 12/10/08
We go back to 2008 for our first entry. The WEC – run by Zuffa as a sister promotion to the UFC – had recently decided to fold their heavier divisions into the UFC, and so Light-Heavyweight champion Steve Cantwell was booked for his UFC debut at the second ‘Fight for the Troops’ card.
Big things were expected of Cantwell, who had only just turned 22, as he’d reeled off three wins and three finishes in the WEC to put his overall record at 6-1.
His opponent was another newcomer in the form of Razak Al-Hassan, who despite his name, hailed from Iowa. He was bringing in a 7-0 record, although he didn’t have the experience at the high level that Cantwell had gotten in the WEC.
Most observers expected Cantwell to win, they just didn’t realise how nasty it’d be.
After an early striking exchange, Cantwell got a takedown in the later part of the first round. From there he mounted Al-Hassan and then went for an armbar. Showing some decent knowledge of submission defence, Al-Hassan attempted to roll and step over Cantwell, but it only made matters worse.
Cantwell almost twisted the arm at the elbow joint before straightening it out, and as Al-Hassan desperately attempted to escape, the pressure on the joint became too much and a break – as well as a dislocation and torn tendons – was clearly visible in a sickening sight. The fight was over.
Perhaps more memorable was the post-fight interview, when Cantwell revelled in the moment, telling Joe Rogan he’d always wanted to break someone’s arm.
Not the most sporting attitude and I guess karma does exist, as Cantwell went on to lose his next five UFC outings and hasn’t fought since February 2012.
