Knuckle & Knowledge

Before stepping into the ring, the “Fatal Fury” grudge match between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn has already captured the public’s imagination by reviving one of boxing’s great dynastic rivalries. Scheduled for 26 April 2025 at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, this middleweight contest pits IBO champion Eubank Jr. (34–3 with 25 KOs) against the undefeated WBA Continental (Europe) welterweight titlist Benn (23–0 with 14 KOs), with both fighters determined to settle unfinished business born of their fathers’ showdowns in 1990 and 1993. Promoted under the moniker “Fatal Fury” in collaboration with SNK’s upcoming video game City of the Wolves, the event promises high stakes and high drama. Legacy of a Rivalry The seeds of this match were sown 35 years ago, when Chris Eubank Sr. and Nigel Benn met twice in epic middleweight battles. In their first encounter on 18 November 1990 at Birmingham’s NEC, Eubank Sr. captured the WBO title via ninth-round TKO over Benn; three years later, the...

ONE Championship has long been a stage where martial arts excellence is celebrated—whether through bone-crushing knockouts, lightning-fast submissions, or technical mastery on the mat. But when it comes to identifying the greatest of all time (GOAT), one name consistently stands out: Bibiano Fernandes. In this article, we’ll explore the criteria that define greatness in ONE Championship and break down why Fernandes’ legacy may very well crown him as the GOAT of the promotion. The Metrics of Greatness in ONE Championship When discussing the GOAT, several factors come into play: Championship Record and Title Defenses: Consistent success in title fights, including numerous defenses, showcases dominance over extended periods. Technical Mastery: A fighter’s grappling and striking skills, as well as their adaptability, are essential components of greatness. Longevity and Consistency: Sustaining performance at the highest level over many years and across different eras of compe...

The Best MMA Rivalries in History: Fights That Changed the Sport MMA is as much a battle of personalities and legacies as it is about technique and strength. Rivalries bring drama, elevating bouts beyond their minutes in the cage and transforming fighters into icons. Whether through controversial decisions, epic comebacks, or stunning finishes, the best rivalries in MMA have left an indelible mark on the sport and helped propel it into the global spotlight. What Makes an MMA Rivalry Legendary? Intensity and Passion: Great rivalries are fueled by deeply personal stakes. When fighters have contrasting styles—and sometimes clashing personalities—the tension spills over into every strike and grappling exchange. The rivalry becomes more than just a contest; it’s a narrative where pride, ambition, and even cultural differences come into play. High Stakes and Title Implications: Many of these rivalries have all been defined in championship bouts or high-profile tournaments. The pressur...

 ONE Championship has long been known for its dynamic blend of traditional martial arts and cutting‐edge mixed martial arts (MMA). Among its many hallmarks is a rich tradition of submission grappling. In a promotion where fights are often won on the mat, the art of the submission is not only a decisive weapon but also a showcase of technical brilliance and creative strategy. From lightning‐fast chokes to innovative leg locks, here’s an in‐depth look at some of the top submission artists who have defined—and continue to shape—the grappling landscape in ONE Championship. A Tradition Rooted in Technique and Innovation ONE Championship’s roster has consistently featured world‐class grapplers who come from diverse backgrounds: Brazilian jiu‐jitsu, judo, wrestling, and even catch wrestling. The promotion’s ethos values “the gentle art” as much as sheer physical prowess. In many bouts, fighters opt to neutralize their opponents by forcing a tapout instead of relying solely on judges’ de...

Greatest MMA Fighters of All Time: Who Deserves the GOAT Title? The world of Mixed Martial Arts is built on battles that transcend generations. Fans and experts alike often ask: Who truly deserves the title of the Greatest of All Time (GOAT)? While opinions vary, a handful of fighters consistently appear at the top of the conversation. What Makes a Fighter the GOAT? Dominance in Their Era A true GOAT candidate not only wins but dominates their competition. Whether it's Anderson Silva’s mesmerizing run in the middleweight division or Georges St-Pierre’s clinical approach in welterweight, dominance is key. Technical Skill and Versatility The ability to adapt—be it through striking, grappling, or cage control—cements a fighter's legacy. Jon Jones, for example, is praised for his fight IQ and all-around skill set, often overwhelming opponents with his versatility. Longevity and Consistency Sustained excellence over time also factors into the GOAT discussion. Fighters like ...

The Biggest Rivalries in ONE Championship History ONE Championship isn’t just about the athletes’ skills—it’s also about the fierce rivalries that have defined eras and driven the sport to new heights. From early clashes that set the tone for the organization’s future to modern battles that leave fans on the edge of their seats, these rivalries have become integral to the ONE Championship narrative. 1. Eduard Folayang vs. Shinya Aoki A Battle of Contrasting Styles One of the earliest and most storied rivalries in ONE Championship was between Eduard Folayang and Shinya Aoki. Folayang, known for his dynamic striking and relentless pace, clashed with Aoki—a submission specialist with a fluid, unpredictable grappling style. Their encounters were more than just fights; they were ideological battles between two martial arts philosophies. Impact on the Sport Their matchups not only elevated both fighters’ profiles but also set a precedent for how contrasting techniques could blend into...