In all honestly I was reluctant to sign such a list, though I respect Tanner, because there are so many 'all time greats'. However, I now realize that Tanner contributed much more to this sport than he could have with some well hyped wins. Evan Tanner contributed to the very soul of MIxed Martial Arts. His heart and stoicism, as well as his views on the future of MMA helped shape the sport in a big way. Many won't admit it and will pass it of as an obession with the man's death, but the fact is Evan Tanner fully diserves to be in the HOF because he was a unique individual; one of the few guys who could have saved MMA from its overly commercial and white-bread future in north America.
It's not just about impossible wins and long championship reigns when it comes to the predecessors of today's MMA athletes. It's all about the trailblazers and the guys whose styles laid the foundation for the athletes that will take the sport to an unforeseen level.
Evan was a true pioneer of mixed martial arts, not just a pioneer as far as taking one discipline mainstream. The fact that he trained himself off of video tapes reinforces his motto and is the stuff of legend.
This petition is not a knee-jerk reaction to a tragedy from shocked fans. The man is a legitimate Hall of Famer and should be recognized as such.
I support this petition, and think that Evan would be an exemplary addition to the Hall of Fame. He was not only a Hall of Fame caliber Mixed Martial Artist, but a Hall of Fame caliber human being as well.
I support this petition. Someone that represented the sport perfectly inside and outside of the octagon, through good times and bad, is the exact kind of person that deserves to be in the Hall of Fame!! Your dearly missed Evan!
