Where do I begin……
The other night, I sat in bed on an off UFC week and had this feeling of wanting to watch some WEC fights. When you think WEC, you think of fast, powerful and exciting fights in the lower weight classes. What better person to get all three of these fight qualities from than by Joseph Benavidez. I decided to find his fight against former long reigning champion at the time Miguel Angel Torres, who had just lost his championship. People felt this would be the fight for Torres to go back on the title hunt, but Benavidez would not be denied that night. One of the most high paced, bloody fights you can ever watch. Benavidez ending up finishing Torres via Guillotine in round 2. From there I always thought, why doesn’t he have a nickname? He’s too exciting of a fighter to not have some sort of a nickname. So I thought of a couple to myself, “ Bloody Joe Benavidez”, “YO Joe Benavidez”, “ Joe Elbows Benavidez”, “ Mighty Joe Benavidez”, alas none of these really stuck or had a ring to it.
Having the privilege of getting to watch Joe continue is career in the UFC, from putting together massive winning streaks, dominating two different weight classes, and getting the chance to fight for the title a couple of times…which not many people can say they had the opportunity to do once. Then it came to me, Joseph Benavidez never needed a nickname. With the legendary career this pioneer had , his was enough. Some people get nicknames to be popular or never be forgotten but Joseph Benavidez carved his name in combat sports history. From his record setting number of knockouts in flyweight history and tying for most wins in the flyweight division. You can’t say Flyweight or Bantamweight without mentioning his name.
Besides his in cage career, I’ve never heard so many positive things about a someone who beats guys up for living. From allowing us to see his relationship blossom with his wife and UFC broadcaster Megan Olivi, to entering the world in which he loves so much in fashion, travel and film. I spoke to Megan earlier this year and I asked her what was the first thing that comes to her mind when she thinks Joseph. She responded “ He’s just the best, he has the patience of a saint, he just so kind..he would give the shirt off of his back if someone needed it. No matter how bad days are, or what challenges come our way, having the qualities he has makes life so much easier”.
Reading post from other fighters, reporters and coaches there was always one common feeling expressed about Joe, “An amazing human being”. This amazing human being allowed to interview him earlier this year and I got experience these amazing qualities first hand. I’ve interviewed a lot of different figures with Combat Sports and I’ve never felt more comfortable. It felt as if I was speaking to a friend I’ve known for years. Anytime I’m asked what my favorite interview was I always bring this one up because it just showed how human someone who is a important figure can be. He ended our conversation with “ Love you guys and thanks for the support throughout the years…All love and treat people with kindness”. Something that Joe will always be known for.
To the man who never needed a nickname, can’t wait to see what you have in store next. Though your fighting career might have come to and end your fight to make an impact on this world continues. Thank you for always giving me the time to speak with you. it’s always an honor. To anyone reading this please go and watch all of this pioneer’s fights and make sure to check out his movie reviews, you’ll thank me later!!