Watch: One-handed MMA fighter wins fight, destroys critic immediately afterward
It’s not surprising that people would doubt Nick Newell.
He was born without much of his left arm, he’s 31 years old, and he hadn’t fought in two-and-a-half years.
But Friday, Newell defied the odds once again, with a first-round submission over Sonny Luque at the Arena Theater in Houston.
He used kicks to set up Luque against the cage, then used a face crank to force him to tap out at the 2:10 mark.
https://twitter.com/AXSTVFights/status/972339899620671488
“Life’s a cold, hard place, and it’ll chew you up and spit you out, but if you make it your b—-, you can do anything,” Newell said after the fight. “You can either become a victim of circumstances, or you can create your own. I’m out here. I’m creating my own circumstances.”
Now he is ready for a new challenge: He wants a chance at the UFC lightweight championship.
Newell with a first-round face crank submission finish. He tells the camera “UFC, I’m coming!” #LFA35
— Marc Raimondi (@marcraimondi) March 10, 2018
The fact that Newell has been able to compete in MMA is impressive enough; that he’s been so successful is nearly inconceivable.
After Friday’s win, his career record is a remarkable 14-1, with his only defeat coming at the hands of Justin Gaethje.
“I’m one of the best fighters in the world, and I belong in the UFC,” Newell said after the fight. “That’s it. That’s final. I gave you 14 reasons why I belong in the UFC. I’m one of the best fighters in the world, and I’ve proved it 14 times.”
One could understand Newell’s doubters, but there are critics who say he shouldn’t be allowed to fight at all.
@NotoriousNewell I don't care to see you in the @ufc unless you're against someone with a similar handicap. There are certain advantages and disadvantages to your body type. Makes no sense to have someone with 4 full limbs fight you. I'm sure understand.
— Darren Cesca (@DarrenCesca) March 10, 2018
Newell had a fiery response.
“I am who I am, & you are who you are based on mindset alone.” he tweeted. “You see a reason to quit, and I see no excuses. I’m a champion, and you’ll never be anything.
“Come to West Haven sometime & I’ll give you a wedgie.”
Sounds like a serious challenge.
We wouldn’t bet against him. Would you?
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