Australian boxing veteran Lucas Browne, who has fought some of the toughest names in boxing such as Tyson Fury and Dillian Whyte, has revealed that no one hit him harder than former UFC star Mark Hunt.
During an interview on the “David ‘White Rhino’ Allen YouTube channel,” Browne recounted his sparring experience with Hunt and admitted being overwhelmed by the sheer force of the UFC legend’s strikes.
“I sparred with Mark Hunt. I hit him with everything, and he just smiled at me. Then he went, ‘Bang.’ He hit me the hardest I’ve ever been hit in my life,” Browne explained. “Without a doubt. He hit me in the forehead, and I went, ‘Wow.’”
Browne, who retired earlier this year after a career spanning 15 years and holding titles like the WBA Oceania and IBF Australasian heavyweight belts, stands firm in his claim. Despite sparring with figures like Tyson Fury and going up against Dillian Whyte in an official bout, he still considers Hunt’s power to be unmatched.
Mark Hunt’s MMA Career: Power and Controversy
Mark Hunt, known as “The Super Samoan,” transitioned into the UFC after making a name in PRIDE FC by defeating stars like Wanderlei Silva and Mirko Cro Cop.
Though his UFC debut in 2010 against Sean McCorkle didn’t go his way, Hunt quickly cemented himself as a fan favorite with four consecutive wins, including knockouts against fighters like Cheick Kongo and Stefan Struve.
Hunt later earned an interim title shot at UFC 180 but fell short against Fabricio Werdum. While he picked up a couple more wins, his career took a hit after facing Brock Lesnar at UFC 200 in 2016. Though originally a loss, the bout was turned into a no-contest when Lesnar tested positive for a banned substance.
Hunt later sued the UFC, claiming they allowed Lesnar to fight despite knowing about the failed drug test. However, Hunt lost the case and was ordered to pay $388,235 in legal fees.
Even with the controversies, Hunt’s punching power was undeniable. He continued to compete in the UFC until 2018, departing with a mixed record. In his last competitive bout, Hunt scored a fourth-round TKO victory over Sonny Bill Williams in a boxing match in May 2022.
Browne’s praise for Hunt’s striking power only adds further weight to the legacy of the New Zealand combat sports icon, whose knockout ability remains the stuff of legend in both MMA and boxing circles.
