This Month’s MMA Birthdays: Jake Shields Celebrates No. 40

Jake Shields will go down in the history books, not only as one of the sport’s most accomplished welterweights but as one of its most polarizing figures, often derided for his commitment to a three-yards-and-a-cloud-of-dust approach to mixed martial arts. The Cesar Gracie protégé will celebrate his 40th birthday on Jan. 9.

A former Shooto, Strikeforce and EliteXC champion, Shields has compiled a 33-11-1 record in more than 19 years as a pro. However, more than half (18) of his wins have come by decision. Between Nov. 12, 2005 and Oct. 23, 2010, Shields rattled off 15 consecutive victories -- Yushin Okami, Carlos Condit, Paul Daley, Robbie Lawler and Dan Henderson were among the victims --…