UFC 5 - BELFORT VS LIDDELL

UFC 5 - BELFORT VS LIDDELL

The UFC 37.5 main event featured a highly anticipated light heavyweight clash between Vitor Belfort and Chuck Liddell.

VITOR BELFORT'S ROAD TO UFC 37.5

Belfort was making his return to the UFC after a nearly four-year absence. His last UFC appearance was a stunning knockout victory over Wanderlei Silva at UFC Brazil in October 1998, when he was just 21 years old. The young Brazilian phenom had established himself as one of the most feared strikers in the sport with his blitzing hand speed and knockout power. After leaving the UFC, Belfort had some success in PRIDE FC but was coming off a loss to Kazushi Sakuraba.

CHUCK LIDDELL'S RISE

On the other side, Chuck Liddell was riding a five-fight winning streak and rapidly emerging as one of the top light heavyweight contenders. "The Iceman" had put the division on notice with his powerful striking and iron chin. His most recent win was a TKO victory over former UFC champion Vitor Belfort's mentor, the legendary Murilo Bustamante. A win over Belfort would likely earn Liddell a shot at the 205-pound title.

The stage was set for an explosive battle between two of the most dangerous strikers in the game. With both men possessing fight-ending power in their hands, the UFC 37.5 main event had the potential for fireworks and a highlight-reel finish.