by - soumya ranjan
The military and mixed martial arts have a lot in common. Among the key qualities fostered in military troops and mixed martial artists are honor, courage, and devotion. To survive in the battlefield and in the octagon, one needs discipline and a strong will. So here are few MMA fighters who have served in the military.
Brain Stann - The Former UFC heavyweight served in the United States Marine corps from 2003 to 2008. For his outstanding leadership and bravery in the face of the enemy during Operation Iraqi Freedom, he received the Silver Star in 2005. He competed in UFC from 2009 to 2013 registering six wins to his name.
Jorge Rivera- He enlisted in the US Army in his early 20s and was stationed at Fort Polk in Louisiana as a 19K Armored Calvary Scout. He served in the military for two years before deciding to leave to pursue a mixed martial arts career. Before calling it quits on his career, he faced off against notable opponents like Chris Leben and Michael Bisping over his seven years as a formidable fighter in the sport.
Liz Carmouche - Before beginning her MMA career, Liz Carmouche worked as an aviation electrician for the Marines. She served in the service for five years in all, performing three Middle East tours. She completed her military service in 2009, and a year later, her professional MMA career got off to a stellar start.
Neil Magny- The veteran UFC welterweight fighter served in the Illinois National Guard for a number of years as a light-wheeled mechanic. He also served in Afghanistan during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007. Magny learnt how to fight in hand-to-hand combat in the National Guard. He took first place in the "All-Army Combatives" and "All-Guard Combatives" amateur combat competitions for the Army.
Randy Couture - Prior to winning two division titles in UFC, Randy Couture worked as an air traffic controller for the army for six years, from 1982 to 1988. He spent his final four years representing the army in international wrestling tournaments after finishing his tour as a Staff Sergeant in the 101st Airborne Division.