Brian Johnston (born July 28, 1969) is an American former mixed martial artist and professional wrestler who competed throughout the mid-1990s, most notably in the Ultimate Fighting Championship and New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Johnston retired after suffering a massive stroke in 2001.
Contents
Career
Ultimate Fighting Championship
Johnston holds a black belt in judo and was a former Golden Gloves amateur boxing champion with an undefeated amateur kickboxing record of 12-0, as well as an experienced amateur wrestler. His effective mix of precision striking and ground fighting, as seen with other fighters such as Erik Paulson, Matt Hume, and Marco Ruas, would set the standard for what are now common traits in modern-day fighting styles. Johnston fought many notable fighters in their prime, such as Don Frye, Mark Coleman and Ken Shamrock, while competing in the UFC.
Professional wrestling
Initially trained by Brad Rheingans, Johnston made his professional wrestling debut in 1997, losing to Naoya Ogawa at NJPW G1 Climax Special 1997. Throughout his whole career Johnston was used as a tag team wrestler, teaming with such names like Don Frye, Osamu Kido, Tadao Yasuda, Dave Beneteau, and Kazuyuki Fujita. He had a notable appearance at the 1999 G1 Tag League, teaming with Takashi Iizuka.
Retirement
In August 2001, Johnston suffered a massive stroke while in Japan prior to a fight, at 32 years of age and 3 weeks after his wedding. He was subsequently forced to retire. Johnston would train several team mates to impressive MMA victories, over notables such as Mark Kerr, K-1 fighter Jan Nortje and MMA fighters Ryan Gracie and Ken Shamrock.
Career accomplishments
Mixed martial arts
Ultimate Fighting Championship
UFC Encyclopedia Awards
Knockout of the Night (One time) vs. Reza Nasri