By MATT MOLGAARD
MMANEWS.COM Staff Writer

In nearly 20 years of genuine recognition, mixed martial arts has produced heels, cowards, comedians, and of course, icons. Dating back to the early 1990’s, the sport has seen some truly memorable characters compete inside the cage (and or ring). Whether you’re new to the sport or not, if you’ve done your homework, you’re likely familiar with some of MMA’s more famous characters; if you’ve been slacking on your history lessons, allow me to bring you up to speed.

#25 Ikuhisa Minowa:

While”Minowaman” may not sport the most impressive professional record in the business, he’s built himself an untouchable legacy. Known for his willingness to fight anyone, anywhere, Minowa has thrilled Japanese and American fans since the mid 90’s. A slick submission game has led to a number of quality wins for the brash warrior, including victories over 7’2” tall Hong Man Choi, Bob Sapp, Don Frye, Phil Baroni and Gilbert Yvel.

#24 Guy Mezger:

Guy Mezger is one of the few “old school” fighters who managed to follow the learning curve as the sport grew at an exponential rate. An always dangerous striker with impressive kicks and big power in both hands, Mezger has gone to war with some of the best fighters to compete in MMA. Amongst his career highs are wins over Tito Ortiz, Semmy Schilt, and Yuki Kondo. Interestingly enough, he may be best remembered for the hell he gave champions Chuck Liddell and Wanderlei Silva in losing bids.

#23 Mauricio Rua:

“Shogun” burst onto the scene in 2002; he was immediately recognized as a gifted fighter, and rightfully so. At the tender age of 23 Shogun blasted through some of the sports’ most dangerous 205 pound fighters to win a Pride Fighting Championships belt. Included in his extensive list of victims are Alistair Overeem, Ricardo Arona, Antonio Rogerio Nogueira, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, Chuck Liddell and Lyoto Machida.

#22 Bas Rutten:

Bas may be one of the most underappreciated warriors in the history of this beloved sport. That comes not from a lack of fighting, but a lack of exposure, as Rutten spent the vast majority of his career fighting in Japan for Pancrase, which the average American was not privy to viewing. However, make no mistake, this man is one bad mofo. An advanced understanding of the submission game, and a liver kick from hell aided Rutten in his quest for supremacy in the 1990’s. Quality opponents like Frank Shamrock, Maurice Smith, Guy Mezger and Kevin Randleman are just a few of the men to feel Rutten’s wrath.