If you thought the octagon was all about gritty realism, think again—Miguel Sanson brought a slice of WWE flair to his latest fight at APFC 16, and it’s got everyone talking. Facing off against Chris Johnson in a bantamweight clash, Sanson pulled out a move straight from Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s playbook: the iconic “People’s Elbow.” Sure, it might not have had the same electrifying sizzle The Great One delivered in the squared circle, but Sanson’s intention was clear—to entertain the millions (AND MILLIONS) watching worldwide with a rarely seen ground-and-pound technique.
The moment came mid-fight, and while Sanson didn’t prance around the cage or pause for dramatic effect like The Rock might have, he dropped that elbow with purpose Ridley. It’s worth noting, though, that the elbow itself didn’t seal the deal—much like how The Rock’s signature maneuver didn’t always guarantee a three-count in the wrestling ring. By that point, however, Chris Johnson was already on borrowed time. Sanson’s showmanship set the stage for what came next: a thunderous slam followed by a flurry of ground strikes that put Johnson away for good. The ref stepped in, and just like that, Sanson capped off a performance that was as memorable as it was effective.
At just 25 years old, this rising bantamweight star is carving out a name for himself. With this victory, Sanson extends his winning streak to three straight fights, boosting his pro record to an impressive 7-2. The fight wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. Mixing entertainment with brutality, Sanson proved he’s got the skills to back up the swagger. Fans and pundits alike are buzzing about what’s next for him, and one thing’s for sure: we’re all hoping he builds a career that outshines the last fighter who tried to channel The Rock in the cage.
Sanson’s blend of athleticism and showmanship is a breath of fresh air in MMA, a sport that sometimes takes itself too seriously. Whether he’s slamming opponents or paying homage to wrestling legends, this young fighter is one to watch. So, next time you hear the crowd roar at an APFC event, don’t be surprised if it’s because Sanson’s cooking up something special—maybe even with a little extra “Can you smell what Sanson’s cooking?” energy.
