Over the years, former UFC title challenger Chael Sonnen has become one of MMA’s most recognizable voices. “The American Gangster” regularly shares his takes on YouTube, diving into all things MMA with his signature mix of insight and showmanship.
And while some of his opinions often come off as bizarre (or even inflammatory), Sonnen’s charisma keeps fans watching, even when he rubs fighters the wrong way.
Chael Sonnen Takes Off His Shirt During an Interview
Sonnen recently appeared on “The Bohnfire,” a show hosted by MMA journalist Mike Bohn. But things took an unexpected turn when the former middleweight contender suddenly took off his shirt mid-interview and began flexing.
Striking a pose in the style of the late WWE legend “Ravishing” Rick Rude, Sonnen reenacted one of wrestling’s most iconic mic moments and shared what he regrets not doing in MMA.
“You ever seen Rick Rude? You ever seen when he does this?… I always just wanted one more microphone,” Sonnen said. “The only thing I never got done in this sport — I would have done it when I got done with [Lyoto] Machida if I had beat him, because they would have handed me a microphone. I would have told that audience to sit down.”
Then Sonnen dropped into Rude’s full character, saying, “All you inbred, ingrained sweathogs, sit down, shut your mouth, so your ladies can see what a real man is all about.
“And that’s the only thing I didn’t get to do in this business. But I am a lineal champion,” Sonnen added.
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The video caught the attention of several MMA fans, who shared their reactions in the comments section on Instagram.
One person said the clip made their week: “Week made, Thanks.”
Another fan pointed out Sonnen’s look in the video, possibly referencing MMA personality The Schmo.
“He looks like that one MMA reporter with the big glasses and the lobster tan here.”
Sonnen’s last MMA fight took place in June 2019, when he faced Lyoto Machida in a light heavyweight bout during the co-main event of Bellator 222. The event was held at the prestigious Madison Square Garden in New York.
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The night did not go well for “The American Gangster,” as he suffered a second-round knockout loss. After the fight, Sonnen announced his retirement from MMA. The 48-year-old walked away from the sport with a professional record of 34-17-1.