EVERYDAY HEROES IN THE UFC
Manila - On every last Monday of August, Filipinostake the time to celebrate and honor their country’s national heroes.They include soldiers, presidents, artists,writers and many more proud Filipinos who have demonstrated an unquestionable love for the Philippines anddedicated their life’s work for the betterment of the country. In celebration of National Heroes Day, UFC – home of the world’s best mixed martial artists – also pays homage to their athletes who double up as modern day heroes outside the sport; some of whom include our very own kababayans.
Stipe Miocic, UFC Heavy Weight Champion
UFC Heavyweight Champion and “baddest man on the planet”, Stipe Miocic still works as a fireman and paramedic for the Oakwood Village and Valley View Fire Departments in Cleveland, Ohio. Although he is currently training for his first title defense against No. 3 ranked UFC Heavyweight Alistair “The Reem” Overeem at UFC 203, Miocic still remains committed to hisfirefighting duties because it allows him to do what he loves most: helping others.
Tim Kennedy, No. 12 Middleweight contender
The No. 12 ranked UFC Middleweight contender is one of the few professional mixed martial artists today who alsoactively servesas a Staff Sergeant in the United States Army National Guard. While proudly filling the roles as both a fighter and soldier, Tim Kennedy has won 3 of his 4 UFC bouts which includes a win against current UFC Middleweight champion Michael “The Count” Bisping.
PhillipeNover, UFC Bantamweight
Known for his explosiveness and heavy hands,Phillipe“The Filipino Assassin” Nover understands that he must tone it all the way down when he is in the Lutheran Medical Center where he works as a full-time nurse.When he is not busy saving lives, the proud Filipino-American is currently training for his upcoming Featherweight bout against former UFC Bantamweight champion Renan Baraoas the co main event of UFC FIGHT NIGHT: Cyborg vs. Lansberg.
Brian Stann, former UFC Middleweight Contender
Brian “All-American” Stann is one of those fighters whose nickname is just a perfect fit. A former UFC Middleweight contender, Stann is also a retired U.S. Marine and was awarded the Silver Star Medal for his leadership, endurance and gallantry in combat. Stanncurrently serves as President and CEO of Hire Heroes USA, a non-profit organization that helps veterans find a job after they’ve completed their service. He is also a color commentator for UFC.
Mark Muñoz, UFC FIGHT NIGHT Manila Ambassador and former Middleweight Contender
Retired UFC Middleweight contenderMark “The Filipino Wrecking Machine” Muñoz grew up watching superheroes on TV. Today, he gets to reenact that as a role model and inspiration to kids through his nationwide anti-bullying campaign, encouraging the youth to speak up, get involved and help others in need. Muñoz is also the event ambassador for the upcoming UFC FIGHT NIGHT® MANILA: LAMAS VS. PENNscheduled on October 15, 2016 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
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