When was Brock Lesnar’s last UFC fight?
Brock Lesnar, known for his imposing size and athleticism, was one of the most feared heavyweight champions in the UFC. This article explores the details of his last fight in the UFC, the subsequent controversy surrounding it, and the significance of the bout.
The Historic Fight
In July 2016, at UFC 200, more than four years after his loss to Alistair Overeem at UFC 141, Brock Lesnar faced Mark Hunt, a powerful striker from Down Under. The matchup showcased a contrast in styles, with Lesnar’s exceptional wrestling abilities challenging Hunt’s striking talent.
Lesnar began the fight strong, utilizing his wrestling pedigree and size advantage to take Hunt down multiple times, neutralizing his striking. In the second round, Lesnar continued his takedown-heavy approach while Hunt looked for opportunities to unleash his knockout power.
In the third round, Lesnar capitalized on Hunt’s miscalculated punches, pinning him against the cage. From there, Lesnar transitioned to a mount position and delivered a barrage of haymakers. Lesnar won the fight via unanimous decision.
The Controversy
Despite Lesnar’s emphatic victory over Mark Hunt, the result was later changed to a no-contest due to Lesnar’s failed out-of-competition and night-of-fight drug tests. Lesnar tested positive for clomiphene and hydroxy-clomiphene, two anti-estrogen drugs.
As a result, Lesnar received a one-year suspension retroactive to the date of the fight and was fined $250,000, which amounted to 10% of his disclosed fight purse of $2.5 million. Interestingly, Mark Hunt filed a lawsuit against the UFC, alleging that the promotion was aware of Lesnar’s PED use before the fight.
Aftermath and Legacy
Although Brock Lesnar’s UFC career consisted of only eight fights, his title reign and last fight left a significant impact. He reached new levels of stardom during his time as a UFC champion, and his return fight at UFC 200 was a massive success for the promotion.
An important aspect of Lesnar’s title run and his last fight was his battle with diverticulitis, a condition that affected his intestines. This medical condition plagued him throughout his career and led to extended periods of inactivity.
Despite the controversy and health challenges, Lesnar’s last UFC fight showcased his unique combination of size, strength, and wrestling dominance. The success of UFC 200 demonstrated his star power, and he solidified his place in the hearts of UFC fans.
Conclusion
Brock Lesnar’s last UFC fight took place at UFC 200 against Mark Hunt, where he secured a unanimous decision victory by outwrestling his opponent. Although the decision was later changed to a no-contest due to Lesnar’s failed drug tests, his impact on the sport and his reign as champion remain significant chapters in the history of the UFC’s heavyweight division.
Watch the full fight below: