Michael Bisbing

Michael ‘The Count’ Bisping – MMA Profile

Nicknamed “The Count,” Michael Bisping began learning traditional jiu-jitsu at the age of 8. By the time he had reached age 15, he was already a notable fighter and had climbed into the ring to compete in the UK’s first “no holds barred” tournament. After a short respite from the sport, Bisping dedicated himself to learning kickboxing, karate, and jujutsu. However, despite enjoying a successful career in kickboxing that earned him the Pro British light heavyweight title, funds ran short and he was forced to find a job.

Over the next 3 years, Bisping worked in a number of professions, including stints as a door-to-door salesman, slaughterhouse worker, postman, and plasterer. To earn extra money, he even worked as a DJ in clubs. However, he soon began to miss the competition of combat sports. In 2003, after spending 4 years outside the ring, Bisping returned to pursue a career in MMA.

Under the tutelage of Paul Lloyd Davies, who taught him jiu-jitsu at age 8, Bisping began training for his new career. He was a natural, climbing into the cage and winning his first 14 fights. Due to his intense approach and his ability to knockout his opponents, UFC.com called Bisping “The Great British Hope.” His jujutsu and kickboxing training made him equally formidable as a striker and grappler. Today, he relies upon his knees for striking and favors a grappling method known as the “Triangle & Triple Decker Pecker Wrecker.”

Bisping has earned a number of titles during the past 5 years. He was invited to be a member of The Ultimate Fighter, Season 3 cast and progressed through the ranks to the finals. In the season finale, he won the light heavyweight bout on the road to earning a UFC contract. Today, Bisping’s record stands at 16 wins (11 by knockout and 4 by submission) and only 1 loss. He was defeated by Rashad Evans in UFC 78. After that bout, he made the decision to drop out of the light heavyweight division to fight as a middleweight.

Bisping is a ferocious competitor with an uncanny ability to remain standing under assault. And while his striking ability has left other fighters dazed, he is also an adept grappler. Fans expect Bisping to continue building his reputation as a UFC legend in the making.