Tonight’s episode of the MORNING KOMBAT STRIKEFORCE CLASSICS series features three fights that helped to catapult Daniel Cormier to superstardom in mixed martial arts. Hosted by Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell, viewers look back at some of the most memorable STRIKEFORCE on SHOWTIME® fights, along with all-new interviews and analysis from legendary combat sports analyst Mauro Ranallo and Bellator MMA President and STRIKEFORCE founder Scott Coker.
The series continues tonight on SHOWTIME EXTREME at 10 p.m. ET/PT and will also be available via the SHOWTIME streaming service and SHOWTIME ANYTIME®.
Tonight, Thursday, May 28, 10 p.m. ET/PT:
Cormier vs. Jeff Monson (June 18, 2011) – In a STRIKEFORCE Heavyweight Grand Prix reserve bout, the eventual tournament champion and MMA newcomer Cormier captures a unanimous decision (30-27) against the former world champion wrestler Monson.
Cormier vs. Antonio Silva (September 10, 2011) – The undefeated Cormier gives up over 10 inches in reach, seven inches in height, and about 40 pounds in weight to Brazilian heavyweight “Bigfoot” Silva, but that doesn’t stop him from dropping the larger man to the canvas just 45 seconds into the fight with an overhand right. A few minutes later, Cormier delivers a massive right uppercut, knocking Silva out at 3:56 into the opening round and advancing to the final of the STRIKEFORCE Heavyweight Grand Prix.
Cormier vs. Josh Barnett (May 19, 2012) – Cormier emerges the STRIKEFORCE Heavyweight Grand Prix Tournament victorious with his 10th consecutive professional victory. A jaw-dropping slam takedown by Cormier sets the stage for his early dominance. In the end, Barnett lasts all five championship rounds only to witness Cormier celebrate his new 265-pound world title.
Founded in 2006 by Coker, STRIKEFORCE MMA traces its roots back to 1985 starting as a regional kickboxing promotion. STRIKEFORCE was a launchpad for future champions such as Cormier, Robbie Lawler, Gina Carano, Ronda Rousey, Cris Cyborg, Luke Rockhold and Tyron Woodley.
Information on June’s schedule of upcoming episodes of MORNING KOMBAT STRIKEFORCE CLASSICS on SHOWTIME EXTREME will be made available in the coming days.
For a limited time, new customers who sign up on SHOWTIME.com and the SHOWTIME app can take advantage of a 30-day free trial for the SHOWTIME streaming service, available on SHOWTIME.com and the SHOWTIME app on all supported devices.
