By MATT MOLGAARD
MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer

Professional fighters earn their living entering a cage (and or ring), pummeling opponents and relishing the bright lights. Personalities often shine through, leaving an assortment of tastes in the mouths of viewers. Some embrace the roll of the villain (be it intentionally or not), some emerge as true fan favorites due to warm and personable attitudes, and some play the politically correct card and uphold rather safe, but flat personas.

To be fair to all, I suppose that’s simply a part of the game. For every Benson Henderson, there’s bound to be a Jamie Varner; for every Randy Couture, we’re sure to see a Wes Sims emerge. For every Dan “The Handler” Hornbuckle (21-2) however, there’s just a Dan Hornbuckle; humble, polite, proud, driven, but most significant: genuine… truly genuine. It’s rare to see a man at the young age of 29 years old so comfortable in his own skin, but Hornbuckle is just that: at peace with himself, his home life, his fans and his blossoming career.

For those unfortunate enough to have never seen Dan fight, it’s quite a site. Due in part to his extremely effective skill set yes (the man possesses nice striking and beautiful submissions), but also due in part to the pre and post fight actions and overall demeanor of a man who cares endlessly for those who support his career and his family. A man who carries his heart on his sleeve. And hey, it’s not just for show.

Melody, Hornbuckle’s wife earned the moniker of “lucky charm” by an overtly proud Dan in front of thousands of viewers following his first round submission win over Steve Carl (10-2) at Bellator Fighting Championships 19. While it may be unfair, I can’t imagine any similar sentiment escaping the lips of say… War Machine. But there was someone else on Hornbuckle’s radar that night as well, and I’m certain not many would have expected it.