After six years in the business, San Jose-based mixed martial arts promotion company Strikeforce is saying farewell to the octagon on January 12. In 2006, Strikeforce made its MMA debut at a sold out HP Pavilion, where San Jose’s own Frank “The Legend” Shamrock made quick work of legendary Gracie family member, Ceaser Gracie.

Over the six year span, Strikeforce promoted more than 60 live events with some of the greatest fighters to ever enter the cage, while also introducing the world to rising stars. Frank Shamrock, Josh “The Punk” Thomson, Bobby Southworth, Nick Diaz, Jake Shields and Gilbert Melendez were a few local veterans of the sport who helped bring Strikeforce mainstream attention, while new comers Daniel Cormier, Luke Rockhold and fan favorite Cung Le were introduced to the big stage.

Mixed Martial Arts history was made often at the Shark Tank during the organization’s events, including one of the biggest upsets in MMA, Fedor Emelianenko’s submission loss and the retirement of Frank Shamrock.

Strikeforce’s last event, “Strikeforce: Marquardt vs. Saffiedine,” will be in Oklahoma City on January 12. It airs on showtime Showtime at 7pm.