Ever since the UFC started, fighters have demonstrated an enormous capacity for power and athleticism. Their core strength and ability to throw heavy punches is a unique skill.
Robbie Lawler has been a huge part of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) for many years. Thanks to him finding his passion from a young age, Lawler was able to work on his physical form and athletic ability.
This allowed him to become one of the most powerful fighters of the twenty-first century. These are some reasons why Lawler has gained the nickname “Ruthless”, and what his achievements mean for aspiring fighters.
Make sure to check out the latest UFC betting odds for more information.
Table of Contents
Origins
Firstly, Lawler wanted to fight seriously since the age of ten. Growing up with a Marine father allowed the young athlete to explore different sports and uses of his natural talents. After graduating with All-State honors in wrestling and football, Lawler started training with Miletich Fighting Systems shortly after.
In 2001, the young Lawler was already fighting in the Inferno Fighting Club (IFC). His first career KO and TKO wins made him stand out from the start. Lawler then fought in UFC 37 against several veterans.
Having won the majority of these rounds in spite of being very young for a professional fighter, Lawler was already on his way to becoming a champion.
UFC
Lawler went on to fight Tiki Ghosn during the UFC 40. His energy and powerful striking contributed to a highlight-reel knockout for the young fighter. In spite of losing UFC 42 due to a hip injury, Lawler set the record straight in UFC 45.
After a break from the UFC, Lawler was returned for UFC 157 in 2013. Within the Welterweight division, his defeat over Josh Koscheck earned him the Knockout of the Night bonus.
In addition to numerous knockouts and TKO defeats, Lawler was given the Fight of the Night bonus on multiple occasions within the UFC. 2014 saw even more successes for Lawler within the UFC. He continued to defend his title and earn more Fight of the Night bonuses.
Branching Out
It isn’t just the UFC that Lawler is known for dominating. The ruthless fighter won against Jeremy Brown in a King of the Cage match. This happened after Lawler defeated Falaniko Vitale at Hawaii’s SuperBrawl.
Lawler went on to win even more fights during his PRIDE debut, and IFL debut. These are only some huge career defeats that the powerful fighter made outside the UFC. Lawler has been known for defeating world champions and some of the most elite fighters out there.
Move To Strikeforce
After Elite XC, who Lawler was working for at the time, announced bankruptcy, the champion’s contract moved to Strikeforce. This allowed Lawler to continue fighting and secure his legacy. Not to mention, how he could keep doing something that he was highly passionate about.
Lawler’s first appearance under Strikeforce took place in 2006, when he lost against Jake Shields in a guillotine choke. He went on to have a mixed bag during the next few fights during the numerous events hosted by Strikeforce.
Veteran Fighter
Lawler continues to defend his reputation to this day, and can be seen fighting within the UFC. He is widely known as one of the most ruthless fighters out there for beginner fighters and those that are more experienced.
Despite being a little older than some other fighters, Lawler has a highly impressive record that is difficult to compete with. He is widely recognized as the most powerful Welterweight fighters in the world.
Lawler certainly stands out for being one of the most high achieving fighters who consistently bounces back from injuries and other setbacks. His persistence and dedication are admirable, and many young fighters see him as a role model.
Accomplishments
Throughout his career as a professional fighter, Lawler has defended his reputation through getting a wide variety of title wins and awards. Within Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighting, he has a total of 29 career wins out of 45 matches. Considering the current standard of Welterweight fighters, this is a highly impressive figure that many are currently striving towards.
Lawler also won the Fighter of the Year title twice during the world MMA awards. Alongside many Fighter of the Year, Knockout of the Year, and Fight of the Year title recognitions, Lawler is widely recognized as an incredibly powerful fighter around the world. His achievements as a professional fighter in and out of the UFC are highly impressive.
Summary
The world of MMA and UFC fighting has always seen intense competition. Evidence for this comes from the immense power that Lawler exhibits and his ability to bounce back during setbacks and injuries. This fighter has a reputation for being ruthless, strong, and eager to defend his reputation.
Make sure you are checking out the latest UFC developments to see how Lawler’s legacy continues to live on. Young fighters that are just getting started with their professional careers are using the veteran fighter as an example. Who knows when the next Lawler could be seen fighting in the UFC.