By J.L. Kirven

Every sport was well-represented at the 44th annual National Sports Collectors Convention this week in Cleveland. Even boxing, mixed martial arts and wrestling fans saw some unique pieces of fighting history. Here were five of Mantel’s favorite combat sports items at The National.

2021 Conor McGregor Panini Prizm PSA Gem Mint 10

You can’t call yourself a mixed martial arts fan without knowing The Notorious One. Conor McGregor is the face of UFC and the first fighter to hold titles in two different weight classes simultaneously. This 2021 Panini Prizm card of the former featherweight and lightweight kingpin is valued at $500 and could be worth even more the day McGregor hangs up the gloves.

Autographed Hulk Hogan Poster

Few wrestlers have reached the popularity of Hulk Hogan. Even though he’s now 70 years old, there are still Hulkmaniacs today who hope he’ll return to the ring. The next best thing could be this signed poster from one of his many reigns as the World Wrestling Federation heavyweight champion.

"Rocky II" Boxing Trunks

He might not have been a real fighter, but Rocky Balboa has inspired up-and-coming champions to step into the ring ever since debuting on the screen in 1976. Many Rocky fans remember when he finally overcame rival Apollo Creed to win the heavyweight title in their historic rematch in “Rocky II.” Fiterman Sports honors that movie with a signed trunk from actor Sylvester valued at $1,500.

Speed Bag from the 1900s

Boxers from the turn of the century were known for following grueling training schedules and pioneering training methods still used today. One piece of old-school equipment that has remained a staple is the speed bag, and this one from Sport and Spool Antiques has certainly seen its share of contenders. The bag is still in working condition but could make a fine centerpiece for $350.

"Thrilla in Manila" Ticket Stub

Muhammad Ali vs Joe Frazier is not only boxing’s greatest rivalry but also perhaps the greatest rivalry between two single athletes in the history of sports. The two men couldn’t be more different, but their three fights helped solidify the 1970s as the golden age of the sport. Frazier famously beat Ali in their first match in 1971 before Ali evened the score in 1974. Their most hellacious bout came in their third and final meeting in 1975, when Frazier challenged Ali for the title in the Philippines. The Thrilla in Manila is considered one of the most brutal fights of the 20th century because it lasted 14 rounds. Ali called the experience the closest thing to death he'd experienced, while Frazier had to be stopped from taking more punishment before the final round. These ticket stubs from Heritage Auctions are valued at over $15,000.