Imagining an MMA Hall of Fame: Borderline Candidates, Part 1

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Antonio Rogerio Nogueira
“Minotoro” Deep (2001, 2002); HOOKnSHOOT (2002); Pride Fighting Championships (2002, 2002-03, 2004-07); Universal Fighting-Arts Organization (2002); Gladiator (2004); Hardcore Championship Fighting (2008); Affliction (2008, 2009); Sengoku (2008); Jungle Fight (2009); Ultimate Fighting Championship (2009-Current)
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CASE FOR: While his twin brother was generating more attention in the heavyweight division, “Minotoro” was quietly forging an excellent career at light heavyweight. He beat Dan Henderson, Alistair Overeem, Guy Mezger and Kazushi Sakuraba in Pride Fighting Championships, plus Tito Ortiz and Rashad Evans in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. He also looks to have some more gas in the tank, not taking the enormous punishment from giant men that his brother did over the years. CASE AGAINST: Nogueira has had a very good career but perhaps not an exemplary one. He never worked his way into the title mix and was not the star “Minotauro” was. Nogueira also suffered a few setbacks against opponents he probably should have beaten. VERDICT: Should he go in? No.

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