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FIGHT ODDS

Sherdog’s Top 10: World Series of Fighting Finds

C.J. TuttleAug 07, 2014
Nick Newell's improbable career features 10 finishes among his 11 victories. | Jeff Sherwood/Sherdog.com


4. Nick Newell


Newell was born with a congenital amputation -- a shortened left arm that ends just below the elbow. It was a distinction many felt would prevent him from succeeding in the fight game. Those beliefs were proven blatantly wrong, as Newell opened his career 11-0 with 10 finishes.

After winning the Xtreme Fighting Championship lightweight title in 2012, “Notorious” joined the WSOF roster and continued his tear. Following submission finishes that wound up on ESPN, Newell was met with increased hype and expectations. The 28-year-old took everything in stride, including countless media obligations.

Everything culminated in a lightweight title shot against Justin Gaethje at WSOF 11. Newell brought the fight to his opponent in the opening frame, but following what he viewed as two illegal knees to the head, the tide turned. Gaethje handed Newell the first loss of his professional career but also lit the kind of fire under him that only a loss can provide.

Number 3 » Anthony Johnson