Sherdog’s Top 10: World Series of Fighting Finds

C.J. TuttleAug 07, 2014
Steve Carl's top-notch submission skills earned him WSOF gold. | Keith Mills/Sherdog.com



7. Steve Carl


A four-fight veteran of Bellator MMA, Carl is an accomplished submission specialist who has achieved success against the likes of Josh Burkman, Brett Cooper and Tyler Stinson.

Still, it was not until Carl joined the WSOF fold that he was able to call himself a world champion, finishing Burkman by triangle choke and capturing the organization’s inaugural 170-pound title. Submitting opponents has become a trend, as he has racked up 16 finishes in such fashion.

Carl got a taste of his own medicine at WSOF 9, falling victim to a vicious leg lock from Rousimar Palhares, as he tapped to an inverted heel hook in just 69 seconds and surrendered his championship to the Brazilian in the main event. The 29-year-old has yet to see action since then, but upon his return, Carl will likely be inserted back atop the title picture. Perhaps a rematch with Palhares will be in store.

Number 6 » Rick Glenn