BJ Penn is inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame

Penn (photo) was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame.

The UFC Hall of Fame has new members starting on Saturday (11). The Hawaiian B.J. Penn, former Ultimate champion in the lightweight and welterweight divisions, veteran Bas Rutten, collaborator Jeff Blatnick joined the select group of honorees. In addition to them, the epic combat between  Matt hugs and Frank Trigg was placed in the honorary post of 'signature fights'.

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When taking the stage to receive the honor during 'fight week' in Las Vegas, B.J. Penn was applauded by the public. The Hawaiian, one of two fighters in history to win belts in two different categories, will join his record-holding colleague, Randy Couture, on the list of the most illustrious names in the history of the largest MMA organization on the planet.

Jeff Blatnick, Olympic medalist in Greco-Roman wrestling, former UFC commentator, was one of those responsible for standardizing the UFC rules at the beginning of the event. He was included in the “Contributors” section of the Hall of Fame, alongside Charles “The Mask” Lewis (late owner of Tapout.

Dutchman Bas Rutten, the fourth Ultimate heavyweight champion in history, entered the 'Hall of Fame' in the pioneers section. He, who ended his career with 28 wins, four defeats and one draw, is currently a commentator in the USA. During the tribute, Rutten was compared with current historical names such as Anderson Silva e Ronda Rousey.

Hall of Fame Members

The newly crowned join names like Mark Coleman, Randy Couture, Pat Miletich, Royce gracie, Matt hugs, Tito Ortiz, Chuck Liddell, Forrest griffin, Dan Severn, Ken Shamrock, Stephan bonnar and Charles “The Mask” Lewis.