[1] Curious as to what he could learn, he started training in Goshin Jujutsu for around six to eight months before competing in an amateur Vale Tudo competition.

In his early days, he would go on to train in Kickboxing, Judo, Wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Muay Thai periodically with various instructors, including Marco Ruas and Renzo Gracie.

Later, Freeman's career hit a low point with four losses in a row, but he returned with a submission win in a rematch with Stanislav Nuschik.

The heavy underdog, Freeman lived up to his nickname as he systematically ground Mir down and broke his spirit, winning a first round stoppage in front of the English crowd.

[2] Victory gave Freeman the chance to make his mark on the UFC Heavyweight division but his next fight saw him stopped by Andrei Arlovski.

Seven months later, a draw against middleweight Vernon White signalled the end of Freeman's second stint in UFC and led to his return to the British MMA scene.

After one successful fight for the Cage Warriors promotion, Ian took a break from MMA, citing chronic fatigue syndrome and an overly intense training schedule.

Defeating Robinson within one round with his now-customary ground and pound, Freeman vacated the title and announced he was dropping to Light Heavyweight.

[13] Ian has recently agreed to be ring announcer for Clan Wars,[14] Ireland's first Pro ISKA governed MMA competition.