Croatian · Split, Croatia · Born 10 September 1974Croatian mixed martial artist and former kickboxer, known for his devastating left high kick and successful careers in PRIDE FC and UFC
Mirko 'Cro Cop' Filipović is a Croatian fighter and former PRIDE Grand Prix Champion, widely regarded as the greatest kickboxer ever to transition to MMA. His left high kick was so devastating that opponents would rather clinch than risk being knocked out. His famous catchphrase — 'right leg hospital, left leg cemetery' — perfectly captured the danger he posed. He was a Croatian national hero and world police champion in addition to his MMA career.
His signature left head kick that knocked out numerous opponents in spectacular fashion, earning him the motto 'Right leg hospital, left leg cemetery.'
How They Played
Cro Cop was renowned for his exceptional striking ability, particularly his devastating left high kick that earned him the nickname for his signature knockout technique. His background in kickboxing gave him superior stand-up skills compared to most heavyweight mixed martial artists of his era. He possessed excellent timing, distance management, and the ability to end fights with a single perfectly placed kick to an opponent's head.
Lasting Impact
Cro Cop is considered one of the greatest heavyweight strikers in MMA history and helped establish PRIDE as the premier heavyweight division during the mid-2000s. His success brought significant attention to Croatian MMA and inspired a generation of European fighters to pursue careers in mixed martial arts.
Career Honours
- PRIDE FC Heavyweight Grand Prix Champion 2006
- K-1 World Grand Prix 2012 Final 16 participant
- DREAM heavyweight tournament finalist
- UFC Heavyweight division top contender (2007)
- 2 Hot 2 Handle Tournament Winner
- PRIDE FC Heavyweight Grand Prix 2005 finalist
- Croatian Sports Person of the Year
- KSW Heavyweight Champion
Croatian Athletes