Holy shit! Do you remember Sakuraba? If you're reading this blog, chances are good that you don't. And that makes you a dumbass, because you really missed out.
Watching Sakuraba fight was fun. I enjoyed watching his fights in a way that I've never enjoyed a fight before or since. Not only was he a great fighter, but he was also entertaining. With a background in professional wrestling, he worked hard to entertain the crowds in every match. Whether he was doing a crazy pre-fight interview dressed as Mario from Donkey Kong, entering the ring in a crazy pro-wrestling mask, or leaping stomps, punches, or cartwheel guard passes during the fight, he always had something new for the audience.On top of that, he was a great fighter. He was defeating Gracies back when NO ONE beat the Gracies. They kept finding new family members for him to fight, and Sakuraba kept beating them. Hence, the nickname "The Gracie Hunter." He single-handedly ended the Gracie's image of invincibility. In their fight, Royce Gracie insisted that there be no time limit. This epic match lasted ninety minutes before Royce threw in the towel. If you've got a couple hours free, you can watch the whole thing. In their rematch last year, a steroid-infused Gracie eked out a decision victory.
At the top of this post, Sakuraba submits the talented grappler Carlos Newton. He also weathered a few spectacular slams before submitting wrestler Quinton Jackson.
I haven't been keeping up with the Japanese events since Pride folded up, so I totally missed Sakuraba's recent comeback. I'm looking forward to catching up with the fights I've missed, as well as seeing him fight in the future.
