Chuck Liddell

What is like to live without fear? This is the question Chuck Liddell is asked the most. According to his 2008 New York Times Best Seller "Iceman: My Fighting Life," the answer is simple: "I have no idea, because I have nothing to compare it to. I like fighting, always have."

For two years, Chuck "The Iceman" Liddell reigned as the UFC light heavyweight champion. With an extensive background in kickboxing, he relies primarily on his background in Kempo and Koei-Kan karate. He began wrestling in college, and now uses those skills to defend against takedowns with an unorthodox, relaxed, hands-down stance. Preferring to deliver blows at an angle, he is noted for his exceptional takedown defense and knockout ability.

Chuck Liddell started training for his career at the age of 12 in Santa Barbara. He was a four-year starter on the football team at San Marcos High School, and became a Division I wrestler at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, graduating in 1995 with a B.A. in Business. As a graduation gift to himself, he had his iconic tattoo inked on his scalp, which reads "Koei-Kan" ("prosper with happiness"). He transitioned to mixed martial arts when he earned a purple belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu under John Lewis.

Liddell made his UFC debut in 1998 with a decision victory over Noe Hernandez. He soon established his reputation as a devastating striker with victories over Tito Ortiz, Renato Sobral and Wanderlei Silva over the next few years. On May 26, 2004, he knocked out Randy Couture in two minutes, winning the Light Heavyweight Title. He defended his titles successfully five times, all ending with either a knockout or a TKO. He surrendered his belt after losing in a match-up with Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, three years to the day of being crowned champion.

But this setback hasn't deterred him. Chuck loves to fight, and is determined to win back the title.