Here’s a rare classic as two legends collide in the early days of their careers: It’s Frank Shamrock vs. Dan Henderson at The Contenders (International Wrestling Forum) on October 11, 1997 in Sioux City, Iowa. The event which pitted wrestlers against submission fighters was shown live on pay-per-view with approximately 250 fans in attendance.
Longtime MMA fans will recognize many names on the card. The full results of the evening were as follows:
- Carlos Newton beat Chris Barnes (2:47 – 5th Rnd) via submission.
- Matt Hume beat Kenny Monday (0:45 – 1st Rnd) via submission.
- Joao Roque beat Dennis Hall (3:00 – 5th Rnd) via decision.
- Mike Van Arsdale beat Renato Verissimo (3:00 – 5th Rnd) via decision.
- Townsend Saunders beat Andre Pedernerias (3:00 – 5th Rnd) via decision.
- Frank Shamrock beat Dan Henderson (0:56 – 1st Rnd) via submission.
- Tom Erikson beat Tsuyoshi Kousaka (3:00 – 5th Rnd) via decision.
It’s hard to believe nearly 15 years later Dan Henderson will be fighting for the UFC light heavyweight title in just a few weeks. It’s been one helluva ride!