Mark Hunt, New Zealand's granite-chinned goliath, returned from an 18-month hiatus following the demise of PRIDE FC to face current K-1 super-heavyweight champion Semmy Schilt at the K-1 World Grand Prix in Kanagawa, Japan earlier this morning.
This was scheduled to be Hunt's only appearance for K-1 before returning to mixed martial arts on May 8 under the new DREAM promotion.
After winning the K-1 World Grand Prix by knocking out heavily-favored Jerome LeBanner in 2001, Hunt eventually transitioned to the world of mixed martial arts in 2004, competing for PRIDE FC and finishing with a record of 5-3.
Standing in his way was the 6'11" Semmy "Hightower" Schilt, who won the title of super-heavyweight champion after outlasting Mighty Mo at the 2007 World Grand Prix in 2007. Schilt has been on an absolute tear as of late having gone 12-0 with 5 (T)KO's since a decision loss to Hong Man Choi in 2006.
Was Hunt able to reclaim the title he held so long ago? Or did Hightower ruin the Islander's homecoming?
Full results (and spoilers for those still waiting to see it) dead ahead. To check out the video click here.
K-1 2008 World Grand Prix from Yokohama Arena in Kanagawa, Japan
Results courtesy of K-1 Official Website:
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