Known as the New York Bad Ass, Baroni (16-19) built a reputation for his explosive fighting style, imposing physique and larger-than-life personality. His journey from
Ultimate Fighting Championship The latest episode of VICE TV’s “The Dark Side of the Cage” now covers the knockout of a global mixed martial arts veteran.
The episode, titled “Phil Baroni: The Fall of a New York Badass,” explores Baron’s rise and fall.
VICE TV’s “Dark Side of the Cage” revisits Phil Baron’s rise, arrest and unsolved case in Mexico
Baroni entered the UFC in 2001 and quickly gained attention for his aggressive fighting style, imposing physique and outspoken personality. His 18-second knockout of the former UFC middleweight champion Dave Menn
is one of the most memorable finishes of his career. The former UFC fighter competed for several major promotions including
Pride FC, Impact power,
EliteXC,
Bellator
and One championshipfacing notable opponents such as Frank Shamrock, Nick Diaz,
Evan Tanner, Matt Lindland, Yoshiyuki Yoshida and Hayato Sakurai.
The documentary examines how the line between Baron’s combative persona and his true identity became increasingly difficult to separate.
In January 2023, Baroni was arrested in Mexico after the death of his girlfriend in a hotel room in San Pancho, Nayarit. Mexican authorities charged him with aggravated femicide. Baroni remains in jail in Mexico while his case is pending. He has not been convicted.
The documentary looks back at the fighter who captivated audiences in the early years of MMA, while also examining the events that changed the public’s perception of him.
Watch the full episode in the player below. “Dark Side of the Cage” Season 2 airs Tuesday nights at 9:00 PM ET on VICE TV.
