Thirty nine fights and twelve years after the start of his MMA career, Antonio Nogueira finally fought professionally on Brazilian soil…and what a fight it was. Some will say the supernatural element of the the Eminem walkout music curse doomed Brendan Schaub from the start, but who knows really, and who cares? Big Nog is back.
Big Nog made his way to the Octagon amongst the screams and chants, the arena was electric. The two heavyweights met in the middle and started with the throwing of bombs immediately. After 18 months away from the cage, Nog looked a little flat footed and rusty, even taking a few scary shots. The Portuguese chants channeled some sort of energy into Big Nog though, propelling him forward. With each shot Nog seemed to get stronger, nearing zombie Nog status. Eventually Big Nog overwhelms The Hybrid, landing fearsome combinations and making Schaub crumple into a heap.
The place goes bonkers. Nog works the mic, small children cry and opposing gangs from the favelas celebrate in the street together. Even busting out into a choreographed dance a la West Side Story as Paulo Thiago looks on.
Pride never die.
