THE BEAST

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The worlds of music and sports are closely linked, sharing many similarities and stories. The metal genre of music is commonly used at major sporting events to create suspense, drama, and excitement. Watch combat sports live on television, including the latest card from the Ultimate Fighting Championship, and you'll recognize some famous metal used on the soundtrack. Famous boxers also use Metal as the background music in their approach to the ring. 

There's something about a gladiator approaching the arena to a banging metal track that gets fans excited. It's an almost spiritual experience. If you have yet to notice Metal's close working relationship with combat sports, listen closely when you next watch a huge fight live on television. The upcoming UFC schedule has many eye-catching fixtures, and you can follow the show at leading TV broadcasters and online. 

Plan your viewing, grab the  Bovada bonus code  to land a free bet, make your predictions, and enjoy an evening of action-packed fights and Metal music. Professional MMA and boxing shows are great fun to follow, and you can add an extra edge of drama by calling the result. Pick the winner or play one of the many specials offered by online bookmakers, including total rounds, winning rounds, and the fight to end within 60 seconds. Make your passion for combat sports pay while you enjoy the hard-hitting Metal soundtrack used by fighters.

Sport offers an escape

Metal artists love hearing their songs used on the big stage at packed-out fight venues. But did you know some singers, songwriters, and artists have an even closer relationship with sports? From boxing to football and tennis to hockey, many of the names you know and love from the Metal scene are also talented athletes. 

Some play for fitness, using their love of sport to help fill the hours while on tour. Others are more talented and, rumor has it, could've made it as a professional athlete had they not pursued a career in music.

Keep reading as we list some recognizable names from the Metal music scene that could've appeared on your sports schedule had they accepted a different path in life. The list of talented musicians with a flair for sport is longer than you might think, and cutting the numbers to fit in this article took a lot of work. 

With that in mind, we tried to cover all bases and ensure there's something for everyone, from  a Motorhead legend  and talented table tennis player to System of a Down's soft spot for winter sports. You'll find what follows an interesting, informative, and eye-opening read.

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Lemmy Kilmister

The legendary frontman of Motörhead, Lemmy Kilmister, was renowned for his gravelly vocals and unrelenting stage presence. However, beyond his musical genius, Lemmy possessed a remarkable skill in table tennis. Did you know that one?

Only a few fans appreciated this hidden talent until stories emerged of his fierce competitiveness and proficiency in the game. Lemmy's passion for table tennis was as intense as his love for rock 'n' roll, showcasing a side to him that was as agile with a paddle as he was with a bass guitar. A passion for table tennis would've been worth its weight in gold on tour, although worthy opponents were usually hard to find.

Serj Tankian

Serj Tankian, the enigmatic voice behind System of a Down, isn't just a master of delivering powerful vocals. He's also an avid skier, finding solace and exhilaration on the slopes. 

Despite the adrenaline-pumping nature of heavy metal performances, Serj finds a different kind of thrill in navigating snowy terrains. His love for skiing isn't just a casual hobby; it's a testament to his versatility and passion for embracing diverse experiences beyond music. We find it difficult to imagine Serj gliding down the slopes in silence. Perhaps he had music blaring out of earphones to keep him going.

Mikael Åkerfeldt

Mikael Åkerfeldt, the multifaceted musician leading Opeth's progressive metal journey, has a lesser-known passion for soccer. Growing up in Sweden, a nation deeply entrenched in soccer culture, Mikael developed a strong affinity for the sport. 

Despite dedicating his life to music, his love for soccer never waned. He's been spotted participating in friendly matches, showcasing a skill set that harmonizes with his musical finesse. Mikael was also a regular at major soccer venues and loved European competitions.

Bruce Dickinson

Bruce Dickinson, the iconic frontman of Iron Maiden, is not just a powerhouse on stage but also a skilled fencer. His interest in fencing dates back to his youth, and he pursued it fervently even as his music career soared. 

Bruce competed at a high level, displaying finesse and discipline in this centuries-old sport that paralleled his command over a roaring crowd during a concert. His dedication to fencing stands as a testament to his multifaceted nature beyond the heavy metal scene. Fencing's loss is music's gain, as it's difficult to imagine a life where Iron Maiden didn't exist. Thankfully, Bruce chose the right path in life.

Corey Taylor

Corey Taylor, known for his dynamic presence in Slipknot and Stone Sour, has a surprising connection to the world of wrestling. A passionate fan since childhood, Taylor didn't just admire wrestling from the sidelines; he actively participated. 

His love for the sport led him to make guest appearances in wrestling events, showcasing his enthusiasm for this physically demanding and theatrically charged activity. By all accounts, Corey is a man you wouldn't want to mess with, and that's saying something on the Metal scene, where you'll find more than a few tough men.

Dave Mustaine

Dave Mustaine, the founding member of Megadeth and a pivotal figure in the thrash metal genre, has a profound passion for golf. Despite the stark contrast between the thunderous riffs of heavy Metal and the tranquility of a golf course, Mustaine found solace and joy in playing golf. 

His dedication to the sport and the precision it demands reflects the same commitment he brings to crafting intricate guitar melodies. You'd have to look twice if you were on course and spotted Dave swinging a club, that's for sure.