Jon Jones was elected “athlete of the year”. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa publicity)
The World MMA Awards, widely regarded as being the Oscars of MMA, was held Friday night in Las Vegas. On the occasion, Jon Jones and Ronda Rousey received trophies for being elected the best fighters of the year.
“Best Coach” honors went to the Brazilian Rafael Cordeiro for the work he has been doing at his Los Angeles academy Kings MMA, beating head coach of Team Nova União Dedé Pederneiras, who was also in the running.
The prize for “Best Submission” went to Frank Mir for his arm-splitting keylock on Rodrigo Minotauro in December 2011.
Brazil’s Edson Barboza was credited with having performed the “Best Knockout,” for the spinning kick that put Terry Etim’s lights out while still on his feet at UFC Rio 2. Cesar Gracie’s academy was honored with the prize for best MMA Gym of the Year.
“Revelation of the Year” honors went to UFC middleweight Chris Weidman, who edged out Renan Barão.
Here’s a list of the award winners:
Best Fighter: Jon Jones (UFC)
Best Female Fighter: Ronda Rousey (Strikeforce/UFC)
Revelation of the Year: Chris Weidman (UFC)
Best Fight: Jamie Varner vs Joe Lauzon
Best Knockout: Edson Barboza (vs. Terry Etim at UFC Rio 2)
Best Submission: Frank Mir (vs. Rodrigo Minotauro at UFC 140)
Best Coach: Rafael Cordeiro
Best Team: Cesar Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
Best Referee: Herb Dean
Businessman of the Year: Dana White
Personality of the Year: Joe Rogan
Best Casual-Wear Brand: Bad Boy
Best Technical-Clothing Brand: Clinch Gear
Best Equipment: Pretorian
Best Promotion: UFC
Media Outlet of the Year: Sherdog.com
Journalist of the Year: Ariel Helwani
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