Chuck Liddell

Chuck Liddell
Liddell in 2005
BornCharles David Liddell
(1969-12-17) December 17, 1969 (age 54)
Santa Barbara, California, U.S.
Other namesThe Iceman
Height6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
Weight205 lb (93 kg; 14 st 9 lb)
DivisionLight Heavyweight (1998–2010)
Heavyweight (2018)
Reach76+12 in (194 cm)
Fighting out ofSan Luis Obispo, California, U.S.
TrainerJohn Hackleman
Ryan Langcake
John Lewis
Chuck Sandlin
Rank8th Dan black belt in Kajukenbo
Black belt in Koei-Kan Karate
Purple belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu[1]
WrestlingNCAA Division I Wrestling
Years active1998–2010, 2018 (MMA)
Kickboxing record
Total22
Wins20
By knockout16
Losses2
Mixed martial arts record
Total30
Wins21
By knockout13
By submission1
By decision7
Losses9
By knockout7
By submission1
By decision1
Other information
UniversityCalifornia Polytechnic State University
Websitechuckliddell.com
Mixed martial arts record from Sherdog
UFC Fighter Profile

Charles David Liddell[2] (born December 17, 1969) is an American former professional mixed martial artist.[3] A professional competitor from 1998 to 2018, Liddell is a former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion (from 2005 to 2007) and is widely credited, along with fellow UFC fighter Randy Couture, with helping bring MMA into the mainstream of American sports and entertainment.[4][5] Known as "The Iceman", Liddell achieved a 16–7 MMA record in the UFC, and an overall MMA record of 21–9, with 13 of his wins coming by way of knockout. He also achieved a 20-2 record in kickboxing, with 16 of his wins coming by way of knockout, and won two national amateur championships. He retired in late 2010, then came out of retirement for one bout in 2018, in a loss to rival Tito Ortiz.[6] On July 10, 2009, Liddell was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame.[7]

Early life

[edit]

Born in Santa Barbara, California, Liddell was raised by his single mother and maternal grandfather, who taught Liddell and his siblings boxing techniques from a very young age. Liddell began studying Karate at the age of 12;[8] the tattoo on his scalp reads "Koei-Kan" (幸栄館).[9]

While growing up in Santa Barbara, he often frequented the Del Playa Drive, a street popular for parties in the UCSB college town of Isla Vista. As Liddell wrote in his book Iceman: My Fighting Life, he often found himself in fights with drunk college students older than him.[10]

In high school, Liddell was a four-year starter on the football team at San Marcos High School, playing center and linebacker, and he also excelled at wrestling.[11] In college, he wrestled at Cal Poly, where he attended from 1988 to 1993, and graduated with a bachelor's degree in business/accounting in 1995.[12] Liddell was inducted into the Cal Poly Hall of Fame in 2009.

Mixed martial arts career

[edit]

Lidell competed as an amateur in both folkstyle wrestling and kickboxing. He wrestled for Cal Poly from 1988 to 1993 and compiled an amateur kickboxing record of 20 wins (16 KOs) and 2 losses (becoming a two-time national amateur champion) before transitioning to mixed martial arts.[13]

UFC

[edit]

Early success

[edit]

Liddell made his UFC debut in 1998 during UFC 17 in Mobile, Alabama with a decision victory over Noe Hernandez.[14][15] In his next bout, he faced Brazilian fighter Jose "Pele" Landi-Johns at an International Vale Tudo Championship event in São Paulo, Brazil, which was bare-knuckle. Despite being a heavy underdog in his opponent's home country, Liddell dominated the vale tudo fighter on the feet, and won via decision. After a technical submission loss to top contender Jeremy Horn shortly after, Liddell began establishing his reputation as a top contender with dominant victories over Kevin Randleman, Murilo Bustamante, Vitor Belfort, Amar Suloev, Jeff Monson, and Renato Sobral. Liddell was also the first UFC fighter to fight in Pride, where he represented the organization against fellow kickboxer Guy Mezger, knocking him unconscious.[16]

Liddell vs. Couture
[edit]

By 2002, Liddell was considered the #1 contender for the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship, with growing popularity and support from his fans. The UFC tried to arrange a title bout with then-champion Tito Ortiz, but Ortiz cited scheduling conflicts.[17]

To force Ortiz's hand, they created an interim light heavyweight championship and matched Liddell with Greco-Roman wrestler and former heavyweight champion "The Natural" Randy Couture at UFC 43. Couture neutralized Liddell's hooks with straight punches and eventually began taking "The Iceman" down at will. Couture eventually gained full mount and forced a referee stoppage due to a barrage of punches.[18]

Pride Grand Prix Tournament against Overeem/Jackson
[edit]

After his defeat to Couture, Liddell entered the Pride 2003 Middleweight Grand Prix tournament as the official UFC representative. Liddell defeated Alistair Overeem in the first round of the tournament. In the action-packed bout, Liddell was getting out-landed by the taller, quicker and more technical striking of Overeem; later in the round Liddell landed an overhand punch to the head of Overeem, sending him staggering into the ropes. Liddell then rushed in with knees and straight rights and knocked Overeem out at the end of the first round.

In the next round, Liddell was eliminated by fan-favorite Quinton "Rampage" Jackson. In the first round of his fight with Jackson, Liddell landed shots as he found his distance but Jackson countered with powerful strikes, rocking Liddell numerous times. In the second round, Jackson continued to out-land Liddell with big punches, but could not finish him. Later in the second round a visibly exhausted Liddell was taken down and received a barrage of punches from the ground. His corner threw in the towel, giving Jackson the upset victory.

Liddell vs. Ortiz
[edit]

Returning to the UFC, Liddell was once again in contention for the light heavyweight title, preparing for a match with former champion Tito Ortiz. Eventually, after Ortiz lost the title to Randy Couture, the two would meet in a highly anticipated bout at UFC 47 on April 2, 2004, in Las Vegas, Nevada. After most of the first round was spent feeling each other out, Liddell threw a few punches and a kick which was blocked by Ortiz, with Ortiz slapping himself on the head, taunting Liddell.

When the round ended Ortiz pushed referee "Big" John McCarthy out of his way, into Liddell, and the pair exchanged words. Shortly after the second round started, Liddell landed a flurry of punches that dropped Ortiz and led to a TKO victory. Ortiz has since stated that Liddell's thumb made contact with his eye, causing him momentarily to see "nothing but black".[19] Since UFC 47, the bad blood between both fighters remained, with Ortiz repeatedly stating that he wanted "his" title belt back. Despite the tension, Ortiz and Liddell would not fight again for two and a half years.

Continued success

[edit]
The Ultimate Fighter
[edit]

In early 2005, Liddell was a coach on the inaugural season of The Ultimate Fighter, Spike TV's reality show which featured fighters competing for a UFC contract.[20]

He coached Team Liddell, while then UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Randy Couture coached Team Couture. The series was a success for both Spike TV and the UFC. Both of the winners of the show, Diego Sanchez and Forrest Griffin, were members of Team Liddell and went on to have very successful careers in the UFC.[21]

Liddell vs. Couture II
[edit]

On April 16, 2005, at UFC 52, Liddell fought Randy Couture, again for the light heavyweight title. Couture moved in for a punch, Liddell countered with a big right hand to the temple of Couture, knocking him out cold, making him the new UFC Light Heavyweight Champion.

Liddell in 2007
Liddell vs. Horn II
[edit]

Liddell was scheduled to defend his new title against longtime veteran Jeremy Horn, at UFC 54, a matchup the UFC claimed was demanded by long-time fans of the sport since Horn had given Liddell his first loss.[22] Throughout the bout, Liddell dominated with aggressive punches, causing knockdowns in several rounds. Liddell's defensive wrestling ability, especially his sprawl, stifled the bulk of Horn's offense, which was centered on grappling and submission wrestling.

Liddell eventually won the fight via TKO in 2:46 minutes of the fourth round after Horn informed the referee that he could not see. He had been hit with a right punch to the eye causing him to bleed from his eye as well as his nose. Liddell had successfully defended his title and, in the process, avenged two of his three career losses.

Liddell vs. Couture III
[edit]

On February 4, 2006, at UFC 57, Liddell faced Randy Couture in a rubber match, After an action packed first round, Liddell landed a big punch to Couture's face causing him to bleed, Couture bounced back with a take down of Liddell, but he was able to get up right away. Later in the second round as Couture moved in Liddell countered similar to in the second fight at UFC 52 knocking Couture out, defeating Couture for the second time via knockout in Las Vegas, Nevada, to retain the light heavyweight championship belt. After the fight, Couture announced his retirement from mixed martial arts.

Liddell vs. Sobral II
[edit]

In his next defense, at UFC 62 on August 26, 2006, Liddell would beat Renato "Babalu" Sobral, who he had defeated nearly three years prior. Seconds after the fight started Sobral came running forward throwing punches. Liddell, moving backwards, was landing big punches, and a right uppercut ended the fight at 1:35 of the first round. It was announced during UFC 61 that, were he to defeat Sobral, Liddell would face off against PRIDE Middleweight Champion Wanderlei Silva. The fight failed to materialize due to the competing promotions' inability to reach an agreement. UFC president Dana White attributed this to Silva's subsequent knockout loss to Mirko Filipović.[23]

Liddell vs. Ortiz II
[edit]

In what was the most financially successful UFC event up to that point, Liddell fought a rematch with Tito Ortiz at UFC 66, which took place on December 30, 2006. Liddell's takedown defense neutralized Ortiz's wrestling ability, forcing Ortiz to stand up with a known striker. Although Ortiz did take Liddell down at one point in the fight, Liddell went on to defeat Ortiz via TKO in the third round to defend his light heavyweight championship successfully for a fourth time. It was later revealed that Liddell had torn his MCL prior to the fight. He had also popped the tendon out on the middle finger on his left hand during the fight itself.[24]

Title loss and decline

[edit]
Liddell vs. Jackson II
[edit]

In his fifth defense, Liddell would lose the title at UFC 71 on May 26, 2007, in a rematch with Quinton "Rampage" Jackson. Liddell was knocked down by a right hook less than two minutes into the first round and was unable to defend himself against Jackson's strikes on the ground, resulting in a knockout victory for Jackson. After the loss, Liddell was widely criticized after reports indicated he had been seen in night clubs the week before the event. He responded that it was not anything he had not done prior to his other fights in Las Vegas.[25]

Liddell vs. Jardine
[edit]
Liddell trained with American Boxing Gold Medalist Howard Davis Jr. to prepare for an April 2009 bout against Maurício Rua.

On July 11, 2007, Dana White confirmed in an interview with Yahoo! Sports that a rumored bout between Wanderlei Silva and Liddell had been canceled indefinitely. Silva and Liddell were supposed to fight in the main event at UFC 76 in Anaheim, California.[26] Instead, Liddell would face Keith Jardine.[27]

In the main event of UFC 76, Liddell came out landing his signature right hand to the head of Jardine, rocking him backwards, but Jardine stayed in the fight. After a dominant first round for Liddell, Jardine started to land low leg kicks continuously, while Liddell was unable to time his strikes against the unorthodox southpaw. Liddell lost a close split decision, making it the first time he had suffered consecutive losses in his career.[28][14] Liddell stated he wanted a rematch and claimed he had never taken Jardine seriously.

Liddell vs. Silva
[edit]

On October 23, 2007, White announced that a matchup between Liddell and Wanderlei Silva would finally take place at UFC 79. Liddell defeated Silva via unanimous decision, out-landing Silva with harder, more efficient punches and getting two takedowns later in the fight. Both fighters were awarded "Fight of the Night" honors. This fight was voted 2007's Fight of the Year at the first annual World Mixed Martial Arts Awards and ultimately was Liddell's final victory in MMA.

Liddell vs. Evans
[edit]

On February 1, 2008, Maurício "Shogun" Rua revealed that he had recently signed a contract to fight Liddell,[29] however on March 4 it was announced on UFC.com that Rua was receiving surgery on his knee and had been forced to withdraw from the fight. It was later officially announced that undefeated wrestler "Suga" Rashad Evans would replace Maurício Rua in a bout at UFC 85 in London, England. However, a hamstring injury forced Liddell to withdraw from the fight.[30]

On September 6, 2008, Liddell faced Rashad Evans at UFC 88. He lost the fight via knockout in the second round after Evans connected with an overhand right. The loss led to renewed criticism of Liddell over-relying on the same coaches and training partners.[31]

Shortly after his knockout loss to Evans, long-time trainer John Hackleman confirmed that Liddell was participating in training sessions with American Top Team to "round out his skills", although he remained officially associated with Hackleman and The Pit fight team.[32]

Liddell vs. Shogun
[edit]

On January 17, 2009, Dana White confirmed during the UFC 93 post fight press conference that Liddell's next fight would be against the 2005 Pride Middleweight Grand Prix Champion Maurício "Shogun" Rua at UFC 97 on April 18 in Montreal, Canada.[33]

Liddell was defeated by Rua due to punches late in the first round resulting in a technical knockout. After the fight, White declared that Liddell would retire from fighting.[34][35]

White stated, "I care about him. I care about his health, and it's over, man. It's over."[34] White went further, saying, "At the end of the day, I care about these guys. I don't want to see anybody stick around too long. You're never going to see Chuck Liddell on the canvas again."[35] In May however, Liddell's trainer, John Hackleman, claimed 'with confidence' that Liddell had at least one more fight in him and was "definitely on top of the food chain."[36]

In a later interview, White went on to say, "Can I tell him not to fight? Absolutely not. If he still wants to fight, he can fight. I'm not saying, 'It will never happen. It will never happen.' But he made a deal with me [not to fight]."[37]

Hall of Fame and talks of retirement
[edit]

On July 10, 2009, at the UFC 100 Fan Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada, Liddell was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame.

Chuck Liddell with the fans at the UFC 100 Fan Expo

After UFC 101 in August, Dana White stated that "I don't want him to (fight). He wants to, so we'll see what happens."[38] Two days later, Liddell went on record to say that he was undecided on the matter and that "it's hard for an athlete to quit what he's done his whole life."[39] Liddell went on to say that he would be "making that decision in the gym, not in the ring" after sparring sessions.

Liddell vs. Franklin
[edit]
In his final UFC fight Chuck Liddell suffered his third consecutive knockout defeat to Rich Franklin at UFC 115 in Vancouver, Canada.

It was later announced that Liddell would be coaching against fierce rival Tito Ortiz on the 11th season of The Ultimate Fighter, with the two of them fighting each other on June 12, 2010, at UFC 115. However, in March, it was rumored that Ortiz had pulled out for unknown reasons and would be replaced by former UFC middleweight champion Rich Franklin.[40] This was denied by UFC president Dana White.[41]

On April 7, 2010, White confirmed that Liddell vs. Ortiz 3 would be the main event for the card.[42] However, on April 12, 2010, the main event was changed to Liddell vs. Rich Franklin.

On June 12, 2010, Liddell faced Franklin at UFC 115 in Vancouver, Canada. Franklin connected with a counter right hook, knocking Liddell unconscious with five seconds remaining in the first round. Earlier in the fight, Franklin had broken his arm blocking a body kick from Liddell. Only a few hours after the match, UFC President Dana White declared that Chuck Liddell would not fight in the UFC ever again.[43]

UFC retirement

[edit]

With the opinions and considerations of his family and friends in mind after losing three consecutive fights by knockout, Liddell decided to end his fighting career on December 29, 2010. At the UFC 125 press conference, Liddell announced his retirement and stated he would be taking the position of Vice President of Business Development within the UFC.[44] Liddell was visibly emotional at the announcement, acknowledging his retirement and an end to his fighting with words of farewell: "Most of all I want to thank my fans and my family. I love this sport and I'm excited to go to this new stage in my life and keep promoting the best sport in the world, the sport I love... now that I'm retired."

On September 8, 2013, during an interview on the Opie and Anthony show, Liddell stated that there was a possibility of one last comeback, similar to George Foreman.[45]

Return and second retirement

[edit]

Liddell announced on April 14, 2018, that he was coming out of retirement to target a third fight with Tito Ortiz. The fight took place on November 24, 2018, under Oscar De La Hoya's Golden Boy Promotions.[46][47] Liddell lost the fight via knockout in the first round.[48]

On March 3, 2020, Liddell announced in a TMZ interview that he has retired from mixed martial arts again.[49]

Fighting style

[edit]

Chuck Liddell was one of the first successful proponents of the "sprawl and brawl" MMA fighting style, which relied on takedown defense and standup fighting in an era where wrestling had been the dominant force. Liddell's style (a hybrid of karate and kajukenbo) focused mainly on the hands, although he was also successful at times with the head kick. To viewers, his unique striking style did not appear refined but his combination of speed, accuracy, and power meant that he was one of the most dangerous knockout artists of his time. While not the most defensively sound, for years he was known for having a granite chin and being near-impossible to knock out.

[edit]

On October 11, 2021, Liddell was arrested and booked into a Los Angeles-area jail on a misdemeanor charge of domestic battery. He was held at the Malibu Sheriff's Station on a $20,000 bond. After his bond was met and Liddell was released, he posted a statement on his Instagram page stating he was the victim of domestic violence, but offered to protect his family from legal issues and voluntarily went into custody instead of his wife. The court hearing for this case was scheduled on October 13, 2021.[50] According to the legal report, Liddell and his wife were pushing each other during an argument, and Liddell had marks on his face and chest, while his wife did not have any physical marks on her after the incident. The District Attorney's office opted not to charge Liddell or his wife.[51] Three days after the alleged domestic incident, Liddell filed for a divorce.[52]

Personal life

[edit]
With Joba Chamberlain in 2009

Liddell is associated with John Hackleman and The Pit fight team. His brother Sean, who also competed in MMA and fought in the WEC, retired in 2007 with a 1–2 record.[53][54] He has a brother named Dan and a sister named Laura.[55]

Liddell continues to train in San Luis Obispo, California, where he attended college along with fellow team member and friend Wyatt Courtney. He has a daughter with MMA fighter Casey Noland. From a prior relationship he has a son.[56][57][58] Liddell proposed to his now ex-wife Heidi Northcott on November 4, 2010.[59] Their daughter was born in 2011.[60][61] Their son was born in 2013.[citation needed]

Liddell is a former part-owner of two bars in Lincoln, Nebraska: Dillinger's and NZone.[62]

In 2010, he opened The Ultimate Iceman, a memorabilia store in San Luis Obispo.[55] This store was closed in 2011 to focus on online sales.[63]

Liddell endorsed John McCain in the 2008 United States presidential election.[64][65]

Liddell's moniker, "The Iceman", was coined by his trainer, John Hackleman, of Liddell's calm and relaxed temperament before fights.[10]

My pulse rate rarely goes up or down, no matter how tense or relaxed the situation. In fact, that's how I got my nickname: the Iceman. Hackleman gave it to me around my third kickboxing match. We were hanging out in the locker room before the fight, and he noticed that I wasn't breaking a sweat or shaking out my arms to release some of the jitters and didn't have any other nervous tics. He told me he had been in countless pro fights and was anxious before every one of them. Meanwhile, I looked as if I were going for a stroll in the park. He thought I had ice in my veins.[66]

After retirement, Liddell served as Vice President of Business Development within the UFC.

Good Morning Texas interview

[edit]

In March 2007, shortly before UFC 68, he appeared on Good Morning Texas (Texan version of Good Morning America) for an interview, and to promote the film 300, but appeared to be very drowsy and fell asleep mid-interview. The interview ended when Liddell asked the host who he would like to fight.[67] UFC President Dana White, along with Liddell's head coach Scott VanGilder, explained that Liddell had pneumonia and had taken a large dose of sedatives the night before the interview.

[edit]

On May 9, 2007, Liddell became the first UFC fighter to be on the cover of ESPN The Magazine.[68] Liddell released his autobiography, Iceman: My Fighting Life, on January 29, 2008,[69] and it spent multiple weeks on the New York Times' best seller list.

Filmography

[edit]
Film
Year Title Role Notes
1981 The Postman Always Rings Twice Boy Scout Uncredited
2001 How High Tough Guy
2003 Cradle 2 the Grave Cage Fighter Uncredited
2006 Bachelor Party Vegas "The Iceman"
2007 The Death and Life of Bobby Z "Maddog"
2008 Drillbit Taylor Himself
2009 The Ballad of G.I. Joe Gung-Ho
2010 Passion Play (film) Aldo
2013 Kick-Ass 2 Himself
2013 Fight Life MMA Documentary
2015 War Pigs Sergeant McGreevy
2015 Riot Balam
2018 Silencer Nels
2019 D-Day: Battle of Omaha Beach General Omar Bradley Direct-to-Video
2019 Acceleration Hannibal
2020 Cagefighter: Worlds Collide Marcus
2020 Fight of Fury Crime Boss
2023 Steve-O's Bucket List[70] Himself Direct-to-video
Guest appearances
Television
Year Title Role Notes
2006 Blade: The Series Graft
2007 Entourage Himself 1 episode
2007 Punk'd 1 episode
2009 The Simpsons Himself (voice) Episode: "The Great Wife Hope"
2009 Dancing with the Stars Himself 15 episodes
2009 Deadliest Warrior
2011 Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior Martinez 1 episode "Death by a Thousand Cuts"
2011 Blue Mountain State Himself 1 episode "Trap Game"
2011 The Being Frank Show 2 episodes
2011 Hawaii Five-0 Himself 1 episode
2013 Bones 1 episode "The Lady on the List"
2017 Workaholics Uncle Mike 1 episode
2018 Ultimate Expedition Himself 2 episode
2018 Celebrity Big Brother HouseGuest - 11th Place
2023 The Eric Andre Show Episode: "Football Is Back"

Television

[edit]

Liddell was one of 16 people to compete on Season 9 of Dancing with the Stars. He and professional dance partner, Anna Trebunskaya got 11th place in Week 4.[71]

In 2009, Liddell made a guest appearance on The Simpsons in Season 21, Episode 3 The Great Wife Hope.[72]

In 2018, Liddell was a houseguest on the first U.S. season of Celebrity Big Brother, where he was the first person evicted.[73]

In October 2019, ESPN released the first of their 30 for 30 specials to focus on mixed martial arts. The film, called 'Chuck and Tito',[74] focused on the fights and feud between Liddell and Tito Ortiz.[75][76]

Championships and awards

[edit]

Mixed martial arts

[edit]

Kickboxing

[edit]

Mixed martial arts record

[edit]
Professional record breakdown
30 matches 21 wins 9 losses
By knockout 13 7
By submission 1 1
By decision 7 1
Res. Record Opponent Method Event Date Round Time Location Notes
Loss 21–9 Tito Ortiz KO (punches) Golden Boy Promotions: Liddell vs. Ortiz 3 November 24, 2018 1 4:24 Inglewood, California, United States
Loss 21–8 Rich Franklin KO (punch) UFC 115 June 12, 2010 1 4:55 Vancouver, Canada
Loss 21–7 Maurício Rua TKO (punches) UFC 97 April 18, 2009 1 4:28 Montreal, Canada
Loss 21–6 Rashad Evans KO (punch) UFC 88 September 6, 2008 2 1:51 Atlanta, Georgia, United States
Win 21–5 Wanderlei Silva Decision (unanimous) UFC 79 December 29, 2007 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Fight of the Night. Fight of the Year (2008).
Loss 20–5 Keith Jardine Decision (split) UFC 76 September 22, 2007 3 5:00 Anaheim, California, United States
Loss 20–4 Quinton Jackson KO (punches) UFC 71 May 26, 2007 1 1:53 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Lost the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship.
Win 20–3 Tito Ortiz TKO (punches) UFC 66: Liddell vs. Ortiz December 30, 2006 3 3:59 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Defended the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. Fight of the Night.
Win 19–3 Renato Sobral TKO (punches) UFC 62: Liddell vs. Sobral August 26, 2006 1 1:35 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Defended the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. Knockout of the Night.
Win 18–3 Randy Couture KO (punch) UFC 57: Liddell vs. Couture 3 February 4, 2006 2 1:28 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Defended the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship.
Win 17–3 Jeremy Horn TKO (retirement) UFC 54 August 20, 2005 4 2:46 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Defended the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship.
Win 16–3 Randy Couture KO (punches) UFC 52 April 16, 2005 1 2:06 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Won the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. Knockout of the Year (2005).
Win 15–3 Vernon White KO (punch) UFC 49 August 21, 2004 1 4:05 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 14–3 Tito Ortiz KO (punches) UFC 47 April 2, 2004 2 0:38 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Loss 13–3 Quinton Jackson TKO (corner stoppage) Pride Final Conflict 2003 November 9, 2003 2 3:10 Tokyo, Japan 2003 Pride Middleweight Grand Prix Semifinals.
Win 13–2 Alistair Overeem KO (punches) Pride Total Elimination 2003 August 10, 2003 1 3:09 Saitama, Saitama, Japan 2003 Pride Middleweight Grand Prix Quarterfinals.
Loss 12–2 Randy Couture TKO (punches) UFC 43 June 6, 2003 3 2:39 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States For the interim UFC Light Heavyweight Championship.
Win 12–1 Renato Sobral KO (head kick) UFC 40 November 22, 2002 1 2:55 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 11–1 Vitor Belfort Decision (unanimous) UFC 37.5 June 22, 2002 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 10–1 Amar Suloev Decision (unanimous) UFC 35 January 11, 2002 3 5:00 Uncasville, Connecticut, United States
Win 9–1 Murilo Bustamante Decision (unanimous) UFC 33 September 28, 2001 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 8–1 Guy Mezger KO (punch) Pride 14 - Clash of the Titans May 27, 2001 2 0:21 Kanagawa, Japan
Win 7–1 Kevin Randleman KO (punches) UFC 31 May 4, 2001 1 1:18 Atlantic City, New Jersey, United States
Win 6–1 Jeff Monson Decision (unanimous) UFC 29 December 16, 2000 3 5:00 Tokyo, Japan
Win 5–1 Steve Heath KO (kick to the head) IFC WC 9 July 18, 2000 2 5:39 Friant, California, United States Won the IFC World Light Heavyweight Championship.
Win 4–1 Paul Jones TKO (punches) UFC 22 September 24, 1999 1 3:53 Lake Charles, Louisiana, United States
Win 3–1 Kenneth Williams Submission (rear-naked choke) NG 11 March 31, 1999 1 3:35 Los Angeles, California, United States
Loss 2–1 Jeremy Horn Technical Submission (arm-triangle choke) UFC 19 March 5, 1999 1 12:00 Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, United States
Win 2–0 Jose Landi-Jons Decision (unanimous) IVC 6 August 23, 1998 1 30:00 São Paulo, Brazil
Win 1–0 Noe Hernandez Decision (unanimous) UFC 17 May 15, 1998 1 12:00 Mobile, Alabama, United States

[89]

Pay-per-view bouts

[edit]
No. Event Fight Date PPV Buys
1. UFC 43 Liddell vs. Couture June 6, 2003 49,000
2. UFC 47 Ortiz vs. Liddell April 2, 2004 105,000
3. UFC 52 Couture vs. Liddell 2 April 16, 2005 280,000
4. UFC 54 Liddell vs. Horn August 20, 2005 150,000
5. UFC 57 Liddell vs. Couture 3 February 4, 2006 400,000
6. UFC 62 Liddell vs. Sobral August 26, 2006 500,000
7. UFC 66 Liddell vs. Ortiz 2 December 30, 2006 929,000
8. UFC 71 Liddell vs. Jackson May 26, 2007 675,000
9. UFC 76 Liddell vs. Jardine September 22, 2007 475,000
10. UFC 79 Liddell vs. Silva (co) December 29, 2007 650,000
11. UFC 88 Liddell vs. Evans September 6, 2008 480,000
12. UFC 97 Liddell vs. Shogun (co) April 18, 2009 650,000
13. UFC 115 Liddell vs. Franklin June 12, 2010 520,000
14. Liddell Vs Ortiz 3 Liddell vs. Ortiz 3 November 24, 2018 40,000
Total sales 5,903,000

Books

[edit]
  • (2008) Iceman: My Fighting Life. Dutton Adult. ISBN 978-0-525-95056-1.[90]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Official Chuck Liddell Website The Iceman". icemanmma.com. Archived from the original on September 8, 2008. Retrieved July 5, 2011.
  2. ^ "Chuck Liddell "The Iceman" | MMA Fighter Page".
  3. ^ "Why the UFC's new $1.5B deal with ESPN isn't just about the money". www.yahoo.com. May 23, 2018. Retrieved November 8, 2022.
  4. ^ Hendricks, Maggie. "The dance is over for Chuck Liddell - Cagewriter". Sports.yahoo.com. Retrieved November 2, 2010.
  5. ^ Meltzer, Dave (April 19, 2009). "White on Liddell's future: 'He's done'". Sports.yahoo.com. Retrieved November 2, 2010.
  6. ^ "Chuck Liddell (2009) - Cal Poly Athletics Hall of Fame". Cal Poly. Retrieved November 10, 2022.
  7. ^ "Liddell, 'Mask' ushered into UFC Hall of Fame". LasVegasSun.com. July 11, 2009. Retrieved July 10, 2018.
  8. ^ Montgomery, Cliff. "Learning From UFC Champion, Chuck Liddell". ExtremeProSports.com. Retrieved June 28, 2007.
  9. ^ "Koei-Kan Karate-Do". KoeiKan.com. Archived from the original on January 27, 2013. Retrieved July 24, 2007.
  10. ^ a b Liddell, Chuck (2008). Iceman : my fighting life. Chad Millman. New York, N.Y.: Dutton. ISBN 978-0-525-95056-1. OCLC 166367897.
  11. ^ "Chuck Liddell (2009) - Cal Poly Athletics Hall of Fame". Cal Poly. Retrieved November 10, 2022.
  12. ^ "Chuck Liddell (2009) - Cal Poly Athletics Hall of Fame". Cal Poly. Retrieved November 10, 2022.
  13. ^ Cal Poly Athletics Hall of Fame: Chick Liddell. gopoly.com. Accessed September 1, 2024.
  14. ^ a b "Chuck".
  15. ^ "UFC 17 | Redemption | UFC". September 14, 2018.
  16. ^ Gobetz, Mitch (May 23, 2007). "Iceman Looking for the Final Revenge". MMAWeekly.com. Retrieved September 9, 2007.
  17. ^ Reilly, Joe (March 9, 2004). "UFC 47 Profile: Tito Ortiz". Wrestling101.com. Archived from the original on March 2, 2009. Retrieved January 25, 2009.
  18. ^ "SLO fighter Liddell loses title bout". The Tribune. San Luis Obispo, California. June 8, 2003. p. 26. Retrieved June 24, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
  19. ^ Barnes, Jared (December 20, 2006). "Ortiz looks to continue challenger trend". Blogs.chron.com. Archived from the original on January 18, 2007. Retrieved January 25, 2009.
  20. ^ "Chuck Liddell: Summary". TV.com. May 26, 2007. Retrieved January 25, 2009.
  21. ^ "UFC, KOTC, and K-1 Salary breakdown". MMAWeekly.com. August 11, 2005. Retrieved January 25, 2009.
  22. ^ Sherdog.com. "Fight Finder - Chuck "Iceman" Liddell's Mixed Martial Arts Statistics". Sherdog.com. Retrieved January 25, 2009.
  23. ^ Barnes, Jared (September 15, 2006). "Liddell–Silva on the shelf for now". Blogs.chron.com. Archived from the original on March 5, 2010. Retrieved January 25, 2009.
  24. ^ Meltzer, Dave (December 31, 2006). "UFC Post-show Notes". The Wrestling Observer website. Retrieved June 28, 2007.
  25. ^ "UFC Roundup: Liddell Responds to Partying Rumors, a UFC Lawsuit, and More". UFCDaily.com. June 3, 2007. Archived from the original on September 26, 2007. Retrieved June 28, 2007.
  26. ^ Iole, Kevin (July 11, 2007). "Silva-Liddell fight quashed". Sports.yahoo.com. Retrieved January 25, 2009.
  27. ^ "Report: Chuck Liddell Chose Keith Jardine as UFC 76 Opponent". Ufcdaily.com. July 29, 2007. Archived from the original on March 30, 2008. Retrieved January 25, 2009.
  28. ^ "Jardine outguns Liddell, garners split decision". September 23, 2007.
  29. ^ Caplan, Sam (February 1, 2008). "Shogun Says He's Signed to Fight Liddell in June". FiveOuncesofPain.com. Retrieved February 5, 2008.
  30. ^ "Chuck Liddell Injured, Forced to Withdraw from UFC 85". UFC.com. April 21, 2008. Archived from the original on April 23, 2008. Retrieved April 22, 2008.
  31. ^ Nate, Kid (December 5, 2008). "Chuck Liddell Training With American Top Team". BloodyElbow.com. Retrieved January 25, 2009.
  32. ^ Barnes, Jared. "Liddell training at American Top Team". Blogs.chron.com. Archived from the original on September 9, 2010. Retrieved January 25, 2009.
  33. ^ Morgan, John (January 17, 2009). "Chuck Liddell vs. Mauricio "Shogun" Rua to headline UFC 97 in April". MMAjunkie.com. Archived from the original on July 14, 2012. Retrieved January 25, 2009.
  34. ^ a b Stupp, Dann (April 19, 2009). "Dana White: Chuck Liddell is retired". Mmajunkie.com. Archived from the original on January 29, 2013. Retrieved November 2, 2010.
  35. ^ a b DANA WHITE ON CHUCK LIDDELL: "END OF AN ERA" Archived April 20, 2009, at the Wayback Machine
  36. ^ Lane, Jon (May 4, 2009). "Trainer John Hackleman: Chuck Liddell has "more than one fight left in him"". MMAjunkie.com. Archived from the original on May 7, 2009. Retrieved August 20, 2009.
  37. ^ Oswald, Brian (May 22, 2009). "Dana White Adds Fuel to the Chuck Liddell fire". FOX Inside Fights. Archived from the original on May 24, 2009. Retrieved August 20, 2009.
  38. ^ Stupp, Dann (August 11, 2009). "Dana White still uncertain whether Chuck Liddell's retirement is permanent". MMAjunkie.com. Archived from the original on August 15, 2009. Retrieved August 20, 2009.
  39. ^ "Chuck Liddell: 'Hard for an Athlete to Quit What He's Done His Whole Life'". Mmafighting.com. Archived from the original on August 16, 2009. Retrieved November 2, 2010.
  40. ^ "The World's Greatest MMA Magazine". Fighters Only Magazine. Archived from the original on April 20, 2010. Retrieved November 2, 2010.
  41. ^ "Twitter/Dana White: Not true! We are doing cou". Twitter.com. Retrieved November 2, 2010.
  42. ^ "Dana White: Tito Ortiz-Chuck Liddell 'Definitely' Main Event for UFC 115". mmafighting.com. Retrieved April 7, 2010.
  43. ^ "Dana White: I guarantee that Chuck Liddell will not fight for the UFC ever again". LowKick.com. Retrieved June 13, 2010.
  44. ^ "Chuck Liddell's UFC retirement official, named executive VP of business development". mmajunkie.com. December 29, 2010. Archived from the original on July 11, 2012.
  45. ^ "Chuck Liddell Retires, Named UFC Vice President of Business Development". MMAWeekly.com. December 29, 2010.
  46. ^ "Chuck Liddell coming out of retirement, targeting November fight against Tito Ortiz". sports.yahoo.com. May 14, 2018. Retrieved May 15, 2018.
  47. ^ "Chuck Liddell announces that he's coming out of retirement, targeting Tito Ortiz fight in late 2018". MMAFighting.com. May 14, 2018. Retrieved May 15, 2018.
  48. ^ "Tito Ortiz gets revenge on Chuck Liddell with vicious knockout in trilogy". MMAjunkie. November 25, 2018. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
  49. ^ Jesse Holland (March 3, 2020). "Chuck Liddell retired from MMA, open to wrestling 'The Rock' in WWE". mmamania.com.
  50. ^ "Chuck Liddell released from jail on bond, says he was victim in assault that led to his arrest". MMA Junkie. October 11, 2021. Retrieved October 12, 2021.
  51. ^ Martin, Damon (October 18, 2021). "Ex-UFC champ Chuck Liddell will not be charged following arrest for domestic violence". MMA Fighting. Retrieved October 19, 2021.
  52. ^ Martin, Damon (October 16, 2021). "Ex-UFC champ Chuck Liddell files for divorce just days after domestic violence arrest". MMA Fighting. Retrieved October 19, 2021.
  53. ^ "Escovedo KO's Hamlett; Shonie Wins Hard Fought Battle, Liddell Saved By Referee For Win". Onzuka.com. October 23, 2003. Retrieved June 28, 2007.
  54. ^ "Sherdog.com: Sean Liddell". sherdog.com. Retrieved October 29, 2019.
  55. ^ a b "Biz Buzz: Chuck Liddell to open sports store". Sanluisobispo.com. April 16, 2010. Archived from the original on May 26, 2010. Retrieved January 5, 2011.
  56. ^ "A Day in the Life of Carlos". The Orange County Register. August 10, 2006. Archived from the original on October 1, 2007. Retrieved June 28, 2007.
  57. ^ Glock, Alison (May 14, 2007). "This guy scares you?". ESPN.com. Retrieved June 28, 2007.
  58. ^ "Noland to fight in front of home crowd at Cal Poly". Sanluisobispo.com. May 18, 2010. Archived from the original on June 14, 2011. Retrieved December 13, 2010.
  59. ^ "Ultimate Fighting Star Chuck Liddell Gets Engaged". PEOPLE.com. November 12, 2010. Retrieved November 12, 2010.
  60. ^ "With Daughter On The Way, Chuck Liddell Settling Into Retirement Life". Fightline.com. October 21, 2011. Archived from the original on May 2, 2012. Retrieved October 22, 2011.
  61. ^ Liddell, Chuck (January 6, 2012). "Announce the birth of my baby daughter". Facebook. Archived from the original on February 26, 2022.
  62. ^ Vogel, Karl (January 20, 2007). "Q&A with Matt Lindland". Journalstar.com: Lincoln Journal Star website. Archived from the original on March 28, 2009. Retrieved January 25, 2009.
  63. ^ Liddell, Chuck. "The Ultimate Iceman Store has moved". Facebook.
  64. ^ "More athletes taking political stands - Jon Wertheim". CNN. September 9, 2008. Archived from the original on June 22, 2011. Retrieved May 8, 2010.
  65. ^ "Q&A with Randy Couture". The Baltimore Sun. April 11, 2008. Archived from the original on May 3, 2016. Retrieved May 8, 2010.
  66. ^ "100 fighter nickname origins". The Underground. Retrieved May 17, 2018.
  67. ^ Gross, Josh (March 1, 2007). "Rough Morning for "The Iceman"". Sherdog.com. Retrieved June 28, 2007.
  68. ^ "UFC Conquers the Worldwide Leader in Sports". UFC.com. May 1, 2007. Archived from the original on June 27, 2007. Retrieved June 28, 2007.
  69. ^ Cain, Jeff (January 8, 2008). "New Book Chronicles the Life of Liddell". MMAWeekly.com. Retrieved January 8, 2008.
  70. ^ Bucksbaum, Sydney (November 1, 2023). "Steve-O's Bucket List trailer reveals a 'fucked up love story' that makes people pass out". Entertainment Weekly. Retrieved November 8, 2023.
  71. ^ Bosland, Katie; Escherich, Katie (October 14, 2009). "Ultimate Fighter Chuck Liddell Knocked Out of 'Dancing'". ABC News.
  72. ^ ""Brazilian "Jiu-Jitsu" as self-defense wins over "The Simpsons"". Graciemag. October 14, 2012. Archived from the original on August 9, 2020. Retrieved April 21, 2020.
  73. ^ Maher, Natalie (February 13, 2018). "Get to Know the 'Celebrity Big Brother' Cast: Mark McGrath, Omarosa & More". Billboard.
  74. ^ "30 for 30 Documentary on UFC Legends Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz Marks the Series' First to Cover the Sport of MMA". September 26, 2019.
  75. ^ Pettry, Jay (September 26, 2019). "Chuck Liddell, Tito Ortiz Featured in First MMA '30 for 30' Special". Sherdog.
  76. ^ Christie, Jennifer Cingari (September 26, 2019). "30 for 30 Documentary on UFC Legends Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz Marks the Series' First to Cover the Sport of MMA". ESPN Press Room (Press release) – via espnpressroom.com.
  77. ^ "UFC Championship Lineage". OCRegister.com. July 2, 2007. Archived from the original on November 3, 2007. Retrieved January 25, 2009.
  78. ^ Thomas Gerbasi (January 6, 2013). "Ten Best - 2012 (and before) Knockouts of the Year". Ultimate Fighting Championship.
  79. ^ a b c d e f UFC.com (June 6, 2023). "UFC Stats - Light Heavyweight Division". ufc.com.
  80. ^ Byron Pillay (April 23, 2023). "Power Puncher Pavlovich Wants Heavyweight Title After Record Extending Knockout". Sports Brief.
  81. ^ "Top 10 Most Impressive Finishing Streaks In MMA History". Verdict MMA. Retrieved November 20, 2023.
  82. ^ Mike Bohn (July 14, 2024). "DUFC on ESPN 59 post-event facts: Jean Silva joins short list with two wins in 14 days". mmajunkie.usatoday.com. Retrieved July 14, 2024.
  83. ^ "International Fighting Championshipswarrior's Challenge Ix". Full Contact Fighter. Retrieved July 12, 2015.
  84. ^ "Liddell Highlights Sherdog 2006 Awards". sherdog.com.
  85. ^ "Imagining an MMA Hall of Fame: The Inaugural Class". Sherdog. Retrieved July 12, 2015.
  86. ^ "2001 Co-Competitor of the Year". Archived from the original on December 20, 2010.
  87. ^ "Contact Support". Archived from the original on October 6, 2011. Retrieved July 12, 2015.
  88. ^ Casey, Jordan (June 11, 2007). "Spike TV Holds First Annual Guys Choice Awards Show". AllNewsHeadlines.com. Archived from the original on June 16, 2007. Retrieved June 28, 2007.
  89. ^ Sherdog.com. "Chuck". Sherdog. Retrieved November 25, 2018.
  90. ^ Liddell, Chuck; Chad Millman (January 29, 2008). Iceman: My Fighting Life. Dutton Adult. ISBN 978-0525950561.
[edit]
Awards and achievements
Preceded by 6th UFC Light Heavyweight Champion
April 16, 2005 – May 26, 2007
Succeeded by