UFC: Fight for the Troops
| Company type | Mixed martial arts event |
|---|---|
| Industry | Mixed martial arts |
| Founded | December 10, 2008 |
| Headquarters | Fayetteville, North Carolina , United States |
| Parent | Ultimate Fighting Championship |
UFC: Fight for the Troops—also referred to as UFC: Fight for the Troops 1 and UFC Fight Night 16'—was a mixed martial arts competition organized by the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) on December 10, 2008. The event took place at the Cumberland County Crown Coliseum in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
Background
This occasion represented the UFC's inaugural effort to honor and assist military personnel by generating financial support for the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, an organization dedicated to helping seriously injured service members, veterans, and families of those who lost their lives in service. The broadcast reportedly raised approximately $4 million in contributions.
Initially publicized during UFC Fight Night: Diaz vs. Neer on September 17, 2008, the fight card experienced several last-minute substitutions. Razak Al-Hassan replaced Brian Stann in a bout against Steve Cantwell, while Jim Miller accepted a fight against Matt Wiman on just three weeks' notice, stepping in for Frankie Edgar.
The event was distinguished by an unusually large number of severe injuries, with competitors including Corey Hill, Razak Al-Hassan, Brandon Wolff, Jonathan Goulet, Nate Loughran, and Yoshiyuki Yoshida requiring medical attention and hospitalization.
The refereeing team comprised Dan Miragliotta, Donnie Jessup, Al Coley, and Mario Yamasaki.
Results
Bonus awards
Monetary bonuses of $30,000 were awarded to fighters for exceptional performances:
- Fight of the Night: Matt Wiman vs. Jim Miller
- Knockout of the Night: Josh Koscheck
- Submission of the Night: Steve Cantwell