Here's some choice quotes from wikipedia:

"Filipović started his professional career in 1996 as a kickboxer, following the footsteps of his compatriot Branko Cikatić. At the time, Filipović was working as a commando in the Croatian police anti-terrorist unit Alpha (stationed in Lu�ko near Zagreb), which earned him his nickname Cro Cop."

and

"Filipović is renowned for his devastating left high kick which he has used to knock out many of his opponents. Filipović also employs ferocious low leg kicks, body kicks, and punches to the body and head. His legs are arguably the most dangerous in MMA today. His kicks have become ever stronger over the years, due to working on his thigh muscles with weights and body weight exercises. His thighs have gotten so impressive that he is known in Japan as "Meaty Thighs." He often spurns longer combinations for solitary strikes intended to finish an opponent instantly."

So he was on special forces AND is one of the most skilled hand-to-hand fighters alive?  Yeah, I would say that qualifies him as a "badass."

The question remains, will he win his Feb fight in UFC [Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic (21-4-2) vs. Eddie Sanchez (6-0)]?

I'd say yes, Eddie Sanchez's record comprises of fighters I've never heard of.