Outside of Luke Rockhold and most of his UFC opponents, Michael Bisping seems to be a well-liked man. The Brit, who knocked out Rockhold to capture the UFC middleweight championship at UFC 199, received a massive celebration as he greeted his co-workers at FOX Sports.
Featuring as a part-time FOX Sports analyst, the crew made a massive fuss over Bisping for dethroning Rockhold and becoming the first British champion in UFC history. 'The Count' was introduced by Kenny Florian and cheered by the rest of the FOX Sports employees. He even received his own cake.
Bisping, who has been competing in MMA's premiere promotion for a decade, had solidified himself as a rounded veteran capable of giving any fighter a serious challenge in the Octagon. Shifting through the top-10 185-pound rankings over the years, the 37-year-old has been a part of the UFC since Rich Franklin was champion in 2006. Despite his experience and tenacity, however, none expected Bisping to usurp Rockhold at The Forum in Inglewood, Calif.
The Clitheroe-raised fighter stunned Rockhold with a counter left hook in the first round and followed up with another one to take home the title. It's expected that Bisping will defend the belt against Ronaldo 'Jacare' Souza, although many are campaigning for a rematch with his old rival, Dan Henderson. His first title defense is likely to take place by the end of the year.
Get the latest gear
