I got this idea just the other day, when the FiveKnuckles staff was sitting around chatting about their favorite fighters. As was to be expected, the rationale was not of a high level, with all of us claiming that we "just liked" certain fighters. As much as I could tell you about a particular fighter's style and history, when it comes to why I like him, I really just can't put my finger on it. But for you, the FiveKnuckles faithful, I will now attempt to do just that.

Fighters I Love:

Matt Hughes. I realize that the country boy has actually become a popular target for people's least favorite fighter in the past few years, but I can't help but love the guy. Luckily, I can tell you why. While I watched UFC back in the day (I'm talking Denver Amphitheatre shows), my recent interest in the sport started with UFC 52. Of course, that card was home to the famous second showdown between Hughes and Trigg. As a wrestler myself, I was immediately grabbed by Hughes and his ability to toss Trigg around the octagon like a rag doll. At that moment, I was hooked, and I had Matt Hughes to thank. In my later years, Hughes would become the subject of one of my favorite articles, an interview I did with him just days before his loss to Thiago Alves.

Marcus Davis. Davis has always appealed to me because of his drop the gloves and throw down style. He appreciates the fans, knows he's putting on a show for their benefit, and rarely disappoints. He's got great hands to match the style and I look forward to his fights. He's an enjoyable interview as well; I always enjoy my calls with Marcus.

Randy Couture. Who doesn't love Couture? From his spanking (literally) of Tito Ortiz to his embarrassment of Tim Sylvia, there's no one better at taking down the heels of the UFC. He's a timeless legend and although I have never been fortunate enough to interview him, I can safely say that he's one of my favorites. His impact on the sport is immeasurable and I believe that is reflected in his fan base, which is arguably the largest in the sport.

Fighters I Love To Hate:

BJ Penn. I never liked Penn for a number of reasons. First, I thought he was cocky. Of course, I like Matt Hughes, but Penn's cockiness always rubbed me the wrong way, like he didn't even want to be fighting. At least with Hughes, you knew he wanted to be in there. Second, I didn't believe that Penn was living up to his true talent. To have the level of potential he does and still come in out of shape is a travesty. Finally, I think he's a crybaby. He made excuses before the GSP greasegate scandal and he certainly continued that trend after. Grow up, BJ.

Matt Serra. Here's another guy that people love to hate. Maybe it's the mouth, the attitude, or the fighting style, but I can't enjoy a Serra fight (unless he's being pounded into the ground). This is a man who is supposed to be a black belt in jiu jitsu and yet he turtles when GSP has side-back control. Where is the technique, the talent?...