Chuck Liddell Goes Berserk Watching Glover Teixeira Win Title At UFC 267
When Glover Teixeira first arrived at the UFC, little was known about his fighting prowess. But one thing that got him the fame in his early days at the promotion, was him being the sparring partner of Iceman, Chuck Liddell. Now nearly a decade later, the ‘Brazilian Pitbull’ is crowned the champion and the Iceman could not be much happier for him.
Chuck Liddell and Glover Teixeira have shared an excellent relationship since the induction of Teixeira in the UFC. The Brazilian was one of the main training partners that Liddell had during his reign as a Light heavyweight champion. Teixeira’s association with the Iceman earned him a lot of respect from his peers in the promotion and also helped him hone his skills, which has ultimately led to his success.
Glover Teixeira became the second-oldest champion in UFC history, and the oldest person to win their first title when he submitted Jan Blachowicz in the second round at UFC 267. And seeing his old friend and training partner achieving this feat, the Iceman was over the moon, and his unbridled excitement was captured on camera, which was later uploaded on social media for the MMA fans to have a glimpse of it.
It was Chuck Liddell’s coach John Hackleman who first crossed the path with Teixeira. Knowing the Brazilian’s fighting background, Hackleman brought him to train with the light heavyweight champion. The two were quick to make a strong bond with each other, with Chuck often acknowledging Teixeira’s contribution to his success during his days as a champion.
Upon his signing into the UFC, many MMA fans looked at the Brazilian as a potential champion in the future. But after a rather timid display against Jon Jones at UFC 172 in 2014, these thoughts were drastically changed, many branding him as a good fighter but not the champion material. He lost his way somewhat after that defeat, losing to Alexander Gustafsson, Anthony Johnson, and Corey Anderson. But since 2019, the Brazilian rediscovered his mojo and toppled some notable fighters on his way to the Light Heavyweight title.
Now with Teixeira standing at the top of the division with a championship belt wrapped around his waist, it is easier to say that Chuck Liddell could not be happier for him.