Mark Coleman will forever have his name in the MMA history books. The former Olympic wrestler and NCAA Division I champion became the first ever UFC heavyweight champion back at UFC 12 in 1997. After having a 5-0 start to his career, Coleman fought Dan Severn for the inaugural heavyweight title – it was a bout set to unify the UFC superfight championship and the UFC tournament championship to determine the first ever UFC heavyweight champ. That night in Dothan, Ala., Coleman submitted the more experienced Severn almost three minutes into the fight. It was one of the best moments of his life. Related Former UFC champ Tim Sylvia says birth of son altered his fighting spirit “Euphoria,” Coleman said recalling the night on UFC Fight Pass’ “Where Are They Now?” “I was overwhelmed with joy happiness, excitement.
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Video: Mark Coleman recalls the night he became the first UFC heavyweight champion – MMA Junkie