Melvin Manhoef is one of the most popular and richest Fighter who was born on May 11, 1976 in Paramaribo, Paramaribo District, Suriname.
At the age of 18, Manhoef had his first fight, which he won by decision. He made his comeback in September 2001, as part of Chakuriki Gym. In 2004, Manhoef entered the Cage Rage promotion in London. He became the British Cage Rage Light Heavyweight Champion by beating Fabio Piamonte at Cage Rage 13. He defended his title for almost two years, until entering the K-1’s MMA affiliate promotion Hero’s in 2006. He won his first fight at Hero’s 4 against Shungo Oyama by technical knockout in first round.
At Dynamite!! 2008 Melvin fought Mark Hunt as a late alternate at heavyweight, despite usually functioning at two weight classes below his opponent. Regardless of the size disadvantage, he knocked down the iron-jawed Samoan in 18 seconds and followed with punches as he was postured over Hunt, until the referee stopped the fight. It was the first time Hunt was finished by knockout in his MMA career. He fought former WEC Middleweight Champion Paulo Filho on 20 July 2009 at Dream 10. Despite early success on the feet with his striking offensive, Manhoef was taken down and submitted via armbar in the first round.
