Michael Bisping retires garnering legendary status.

It’s often hard to see the qualities that would make up a legend. For some it’s an individual that changes the sport entirely, a person who brings something new to the table that has never been seen before. But sometimes a person who embodies hard work, dedication to their craft, and an undying will can just as easily define what makes a legend in a given sport.

Michael Bisping falls into that latter category.

There are a few words to describe Michael “The Count” Bisping. One word that fits nicely is polarizing. While he may have been held in high regard for some fans, enjoying his bravado and willingness to back it up, others would say Bisping was a rude man who was tasteless in his approach to dealing with his opponents.

I’ll admit, growing up watching Michael Bisping I saw a man who didn’t necessarily wow me with his other worldly mixed martial arts ability. Instead, I knew that when the Manchester native stepped inside the cage that the masses would be privy to a man with equal parts heart and skill try to prove that all his brash talk, all his bravado wasn’t merely histrionics. Each and every time, win, lose, or draw, Michael Bisping put everything into every performance inside the octagon.

If you asked Michael Bisping there’s no doubt that he was a legend in his own mind long before we knew how great a fighter he was. But there were clearly moments throughout his career that led you to believe that Michael Bisping would go down in history as one of the greats.

Tied for the most wins in UFC history with former rival Georges St-Pierre and Donald Cerrone, Bisping has clearly left his mark on the sport of mixed martial arts. The last few performances of his career have cemented him as one of the sport’s all time greats. His battle against Anderson Silva proved that he was truly impressive. His knockout of Luke Rockhold at the height of his powers showed just how talented Bisping was and how undying self belief can carry you all the way to greatness.

This highlight reel courtesy of Elite Fightclub showcases how tough Michael Bisping truly was during his career as well as the impressive wins that led him from being a good fighter to one the all time greats.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmypHKxzZJA

Michael Bisping is a man that will always be remembered for his brash attitude and trash talk. But he’ll also be remembered as one of the toughest fighters to ever compete in the sport and that fact will shine through more than anything else.

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