Cody Rhodes' UFC Mount Rushmore: Who Makes The Cut?

by Jhon Lennon 52 views

Hey wrestling fans and MMA enthusiasts! Ever wondered who Cody Rhodes, the American Nightmare himself, would put on his UFC Mount Rushmore? It's a fun thought experiment, blending the worlds of pro wrestling and mixed martial arts. Let's dive into who might make the cut based on impact, legacy, and overall awesomeness.

Defining the Criteria for the UFC Mount Rushmore

Before we even start tossing names around, let's nail down what exactly makes someone Mount Rushmore material in the UFC. It's not just about racking up wins, although that definitely helps. We're talking about fighters who transcended the sport, became household names, and left an indelible mark on the UFC's history. Think about guys who revolutionized fighting styles, delivered unforgettable moments, or simply possessed that 'it' factor that drew millions of viewers.

  • Impact: Did they change the game? Did their fighting style influence future generations of fighters? Did they bring new fans to the sport?
  • Legacy: What's their lasting contribution to the UFC? Are they still talked about years after their prime? Do they hold any significant records or titles?
  • Marketability: Let's face it, some fighters are just more captivating than others. Did they have the charisma, the backstory, or the fighting style that made people tune in to watch them fight? Did they have an impact outside of the octagon?
  • Dominance: While not the only factor, how dominant were they during their peak? Did they consistently defeat top contenders? How long did they hold titles?

With these criteria in mind, let's start constructing Cody Rhodes' hypothetical UFC Mount Rushmore.

Potential Contenders for Cody's UFC Mount Rushmore

Okay, guys, this is where it gets fun. There are so many legends to choose from, and everyone's list is going to be a little different. But here are some of the names that consistently come up in these kinds of discussions:

Royce Gracie: The Pioneer

You simply cannot talk about the UFC's Mount Rushmore without mentioning Royce Gracie. He was the face of the UFC in its early days, winning UFC 1, UFC 2, and UFC 4. Gracie's dominance in the early UFC events showcased the effectiveness of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu against other martial arts styles. He wasn't the biggest or the strongest guy, but his technical prowess and submission skills were revolutionary. Gracie's impact goes beyond just wins and losses; he introduced a whole new audience to the world of grappling and helped establish BJJ as a fundamental component of MMA. He set the stage for the sport's growth by demonstrating that size and strength weren't everything, and that technique and strategy could prevail. Even though the sport has evolved drastically since his time, his influence remains undeniable.

Chuck Liddell: The Iceman

Chuck Liddell was one of the biggest stars of the UFC's early 2000s boom period. With his mohawk, ice-cold demeanor, and explosive knockout power, Liddell captured the imagination of fight fans. His rivalry with Randy Couture was legendary, and his fights were always guaranteed to be exciting. Liddell's impact on the UFC was massive; he helped bring the sport into the mainstream and made it cool to be an MMA fan. He was the face of the UFC during a crucial period of growth, and his thrilling fights helped attract a new generation of fans. He was the light heavyweight champion and defended the title multiple times, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest fighters of his era. Liddell's popularity transcended the sport, making him a recognizable figure even to those who didn't follow MMA closely. He's the kind of guy that even your grandma might recognize!

Georges St-Pierre: The Dominator

Georges St-Pierre (GSP) is widely considered one of the most complete and dominant fighters in MMA history. His technical skills, athleticism, and strategic approach to fighting were unmatched. GSP dominated the welterweight division for years, defeating a who's who of top contenders. He was known for his meticulous preparation and his ability to adapt his game plan to exploit his opponents' weaknesses. Beyond his in-cage accomplishments, GSP was also a role model for aspiring fighters, known for his humility, professionalism, and dedication to the sport. He took the sport to new heights. His two reigns as welterweight champion are a testament to his consistency and longevity. GSP's commitment to excellence both inside and outside the cage has cemented his place as a true icon of the sport. He's the guy who always seemed one step ahead of everyone else. Also he had a great performance against Michael Bisping after a long time away from the sport.

Anderson Silva: The Spider

Anderson Silva, "The Spider", is arguably the most naturally gifted fighter to ever step into the UFC octagon. His striking skills were mesmerizing, his movement was fluid and unpredictable, and his finishing ability was unparalleled. Silva's reign as middleweight champion was one of the most dominant in UFC history, and he holds the record for the longest title reign in UFC history at 2,457 days. He seemed untouchable for a long period of time, dispatching opponents with ease and flair. His fights were not just contests; they were performances. Silva's charisma and showmanship made him a global superstar, and his fights were must-see events. Even in his later years, Silva continued to deliver memorable moments, showcasing his enduring love for the sport and leaving a lasting impression on fans worldwide. He's the kind of fighter who made you believe anything was possible. Some might remember him as the "Best version of Bruce Lee in real life".

Honorable Mentions

  • Randy Couture: A true legend and the only fighter to win titles in both the heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions.
  • Jon Jones: Arguably the most talented fighter of all time, but his personal issues have tarnished his legacy.
  • Ronda Rousey: A pioneer for women's MMA and a crossover star who brought a new audience to the sport.
  • Conor McGregor: The biggest star in UFC history, known for his striking skills and his gift for self-promotion.

Final Thoughts: Cody's Potential Picks

So, who would Cody Rhodes ultimately choose for his UFC Mount Rushmore? It's tough to say for sure, but based on his appreciation for MMA history and his own wrestling background, I'd guess he'd lean towards fighters who revolutionized the sport and pushed its boundaries. Maybe Royce Gracie for his pioneering spirit, Chuck Liddell for his role in bringing the UFC to the masses, Georges St-Pierre for his technical excellence, and Anderson Silva for his unparalleled artistry. Of course, that's just my speculation! What do you guys think? Who would be on your UFC Mount Rushmore? Let me know in the comments below!