Robinson was born to a family of martial artists.[7] His father, Norman Robinson, was one of the first practitioners of Shotokan Karate in South Africa and helped instigate the establishment of the South African branch of the Japan Karate Association.[8] His grandfather, Jack Robinson, was a pioneer of judo in South Africa and set up an establishment that would later become Judo South Africa.[8]
Grappling career
Robinson's earliest sporting achievement was in 1982, when he became the South African judo champion in the heavyweight division.[7]
Robinson competed in the 1996 Sumo World Championship with only a few months of training.[2][3] In the finals, he defeated Emmanuel Yarbrough to become champion of the openweight class.[2][3][9]
On 26 August 2000, he fought for the promotion, World Extreme Fighting at the event WEF – New Blood Conflict. He faced Joe Leyva and won by submission in less than 30 seconds.[11]
On 23 February 2001, he fought for the promotion, Ultimate Fighting Championship at the event UFC 30.[11] He faced Bobby Hoffman and was knocked out in the first round by a standing elbow strike.[11][12] However Hoffman failed a drug test afterwards and the decision was changed to a no-contest.[11]
Personal life
Robinson lives in Johannesburg with his wife Deirdre and daughter.[7]
Robinson set up a martial arts academy in 2001 in South Africa.[7]
Mark Robinson at the International Wrestling Database
Mark Robenson at the International Wrestling Database
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