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UFC 5, titled "The Return of the Beast," took place on April 7, 1995, at the Independence Arena in Charlotte, North Carolina. This event marked a significant milestone in the evolution of MMA, as it introduced the first Superfight Championship to the UFC format. The Superfight Championship pitted two of the sport’s biggest names, Royce Gracie and Ken Shamrock, against each other in a historic matchup.

 

 

While the tournament format was still present, the Superfight Championship added a new layer of excitement, giving fans a chance to witness a headlining bout separate from the bracket system. Royce Gracie and Ken Shamrock’s epic battle went for an astounding 36 minutes and ended in a draw, showcasing the raw endurance and technical skill required at the highest levels of MMA competition.

 

The main tournament featured legendary fighters like Dan Severn, who displayed his dominance in wrestling and claimed victory over all challengers to win the tournament championship.

 

Fight Card for UFC 5

 

Tournament Bracket Round of 8

 

• Fight 1: Dan Severn vs. Joe Charles
• Fight 2: Oleg Taktarov vs. Ernie Verdicia
• Fight 3: Dave Beneteau vs. Andy Anderson
• Fight 4: Todd Medina vs. Larry Cureton

 

Semi-Finals

 

• Fight 5: Dan Severn vs. Oleg Taktarov
• Fight 6: Dave Beneteau vs. Todd Medina

 

Final

 

• Fight 7: Dan Severn vs. Dave Beneteau

 

Superfight Championship

 

• Fight 8: Royce Gracie vs. Ken Shamrock (Superfight Championship – Draw)

 

UFC 5 marked a pivotal step in the evolution of the UFC by introducing the Superfight Championship, paving the way for modern title bouts and championship systems. While Royce Gracie’s draw with Ken Shamrock disappointed some fans hoping for a decisive victory, it underscored the physical and mental challenges of prolonged grappling bouts.

 

Dan Severn’s triumph in the tournament showcased the dominance of wrestling as a martial arts base in MMA. His powerful takedowns and control over opponents were revolutionary for the time, earning him the title of tournament champion.