Dan Hardy, the "Outlaw," has left an indelible mark on the mixed martial arts landscape with his captivating fighting style and unwavering determination. Inspiring the next generation of talent from the UK. In this article, we will delve into the three most memorable fights of Dan Hardy's career, spanning his time in Cage Warriors and the UFC. These bouts not only showcase Hardy's skills but also highlight the resilience and tenacity that have defined his journey in the world of MMA.
Cage Warriors 17: Vs Matt Thorpe Vacant Featherweight Title
Back in 2005, Dan ‘The Outlaw’ Hardy took o Matt Thorpe who took him to a five round 25 minute split decision war, with just one point being the difference maker and rendering Hardy the victor. To this day Hardy states this fight is as big a part of his career as fighting GSP. For the first time the fight saw Hardy stray from his usual strong stand up game, and looked to take the fight to the ground. Something that worked to his advantage as Hardy utilised his skills to etch out the split decision win, and win his first of two Cage Warriors titles.
UFC 95: Vs Rory Markham
UFC 95 took place in London, England, and Hardy would co-main event the fight card in just his second appearance with the UFC. With Hardy having a home country advantage, he made it count against the American Rory Markham, who was coming off a Knockout of the Night Performance against Brodie Farber.
Markham came out pressing as Hardy was on the back foot appearing happy to play the counter striker, but at 40 seconds in that all changed, Hardy is caught by a big left hook, yet he seems to cope with it well.
Hardy focus went up a level as he began catching Markham with his spearing jab, and at 1:05 Hardy lands his signature left hook which floors Markham leaving him in no fit state to fight back.
Hardy quickly finishes off proceedings with a straight right as the referee jumps in to call the bout at 1:09 of round 1.
Hardy celebrated his first UFC career finish.
UFC 146: Vs Duane Ludwig
On the back of a 4-fight losing streak, Hardy took on Duane Ludwig to try and get his first win since 2009, almost 3 years earlier. It would only take one round for Hardy to get back to winning ways in emphatic fashion.
This matchup faced off two great MMA brains; Duane Ludwig a championship-level MMA coach, and Hardy, one of, if not the best MMA analyst of the game.
At 50 seconds in, Hardy double jabs into range but is caught by a straight right counter, causing him to clinch and force Ludwig to the side of the cage. As Hardy exits the clinch, he lands a huge, right elbow, and straight left which buckles Ludwig.
As the round entered its closing stages Hardy looks to feint a jab which at the last second changes to a left hook, a favourite of Hardy’s career, sneaking around Ludwig’s guard and dropping him to the canvas.
Hardy appears to prematurely celebrate as he briefly lifts his arms in celebration, but quickly recognizes that the its not over just yet, he jumps into half guard and thrusts down lethal elbows ends Ludwig at 3:51 of round 1. Not just did Hardu return to the win column but also
it was made that much sweeter as he also won a $70,000 Knockout of the Night bonus.
Conclusion:
Dan Hardy's MMA journey has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, but it is the memorable moments inside the cage that define his legacy. From his early days in Cage Warriors to his time in the UFC, Hardy has showcased his striking prowess, resilience, and determination.
These bouts not only represent crucial victories but also encapsulate the essence of Dan Hardy as a fighter who never shied away from a challenge and consistently delivered thrilling performances for MMA fans worldwide. As we reflect on these three fights, we gain a deeper appreciation for the "Outlaw" and the impact he has had on the sport of mixed martial arts.