#56: The Octagon
The Octagon is one of the most iconic aspects of UFC. It’s an eight-sided fighting cage that sets the sport apart from its cousins, like boxing and other combat sports. Interestingly, the origin story of the Octagon is hotly contested. Despite multiple people claiming that they invented this iconic fighting platform, we all need to say a hearty “thank you” to none other than Chuck Norris.

Jason Cusson worked as the art director for Chuck Norris’ 1980 movie “The Octagon.” Through that film, Cusson designed what would eventually be adopted as the UFC fighting cage. On top of that, Chuck Norris’ film also inspired a lot of other things in the UFC, including signature moves. Thanks, Chuck. We owe you one.