Mixed martial arts (MMA) has evolved tremendously over the years, gaining immense popularity, especially with the rise of the UFC. Today, MMA stands shoulder to shoulder with boxing, if not surpassing it in some areas. This article takes a look at the best MMA fighters of all time, focusing on their achievements and impact on the sport. From legends to current champions, these fighters have made a mark that fans will remember for years to come.
Key Takeaways
- MMA fighters have become well-rounded athletes, mastering multiple disciplines.
- Jon Jones and Georges St-Pierre are often regarded as the best of all time.
- The sport has seen incredible female athletes like Amanda Nunes and Ronda Rousey rise to stardom.
- Khabib Nurmagomedov retired undefeated, which is a remarkable feat in MMA history.
- The evolution of MMA showcases fighters from diverse backgrounds, making it a global sport.
1. Jon Jones
Okay, let’s talk about Jon Jones. There’s always a debate about who’s the best ever, but Jones is always in the conversation. He’s just got that something special, you know? He became the youngest fighter to ever snag a UFC championship, and he didn’t stop there. He just kept on winning. He’s got a complicated legacy, that’s for sure, but his skills are undeniable.
He was a force to be reckoned with in the light heavyweight division, racking up 11 title defenses. He took down some serious names like Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, Rashad Evans, Daniel Cormier, and Vitor Belfort. It’s wild to think about how dominant he was. His only official loss? A disqualification because of some illegal elbows. Talk about a technicality!
Then he moved up to heavyweight and beat Ciryl Gane for the vacant championship. Becoming a two-division champ? That’s how you cement your legacy. UFC president Dana White even calls Jones the greatest mixed martial artist ever. That’s high praise, right there. In a sport where things can change in a split second, Jones went 16 years without a real defeat. That’s insane.
Jones’ career is a wild ride of ups and downs, both inside and outside the octagon. But when he’s on, he’s ON. It’s hard to argue with his record and the guys he’s beaten. Love him or hate him, you gotta respect his talent.
Here’s a quick look at some of his achievements:
- UFC Light Heavyweight Champion
- UFC Heavyweight Champion
- Most wins in UFC light heavyweight history (20)
- Most wins in UFC title fights (15)
- Tied for most successful title defenses in UFC history (11)
- Longest unbeaten streak in UFC history (19)
- UFC Hall of Famer
Jon Jones’ impact on MMA is undeniable. He’s set records, beaten legends, and always keeps things interesting. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just getting into the sport, you can’t ignore what he’s accomplished. Joe Rogan has shared his perspective on Jon Jones’ greatness, despite his controversies. He’s a fighter that people will be talking about for years to come. He’s definitely up there with Georges St-Pierre as one of the sport’s greatest of all time.
2. Georges St-Pierre
Georges St-Pierre, often called GSP, is a legend. He’s considered by many to be the greatest MMA fighter ever. He was a UFC welterweight and middleweight champion, defending his welterweight title nine times. That’s a big deal.
GSP was awesome because he mixed old-school and new-school fighting styles. From 2006 to 2013, he was almost perfect, winning 14 of 15 fights, including 12 title fights. He even won 33 rounds in a row at one point. He made MMA super popular in Canada and was a global star. Plus, he spoke out against performance-enhancing drugs, which was important.
He’s also known for having the most takedowns in UFC history. After taking some time off, he came back and won the middleweight title against Michael Bisping, becoming a two-division champion. Then, he left the middleweight title because he had ulcerative colitis. He’s one of those rare fighters who quit while they were still on top.
GSP’s success came from his dedication and well-rounded skill set. He combined striking, wrestling, and jiu-jitsu seamlessly, making him a tough opponent for anyone. He always seemed to have a plan and executed it perfectly.
3. Anderson Silva
Anderson Silva, or "The Spider," is easily one of the most recognizable figures in MMA. I remember watching his fights back in the day and just being amazed. His striking was just on another level. He made it look so effortless, almost like he was dancing in the octagon. It’s hard to forget his UFC middleweight title reign.
Silva’s run in the UFC from 2006 to 2020 was something special. He didn’t just win; he dominated. For seven years, he was untouchable, racking up a UFC record for most consecutive wins. It wasn’t just the wins, though; it was how he won. The way he moved, the precision of his strikes, it was like watching a martial arts movie come to life.
I think what really set Silva apart was his creativity and unpredictability. You never knew what he was going to do next. He had this way of lulling his opponents into a false sense of security before unleashing some crazy strike or submission. It was pure artistry.
Some of his finishes are legendary:
- The knee strikes against Rich Franklin
- Knocking out Forrest Griffin with a jab
- That insane triangle choke on Chael Sonnen when he was getting beat up the whole fight
- And who could forget the front kick knockout of Vitor Belfort?
He had some tough losses later in his career, and that injury was brutal, but it doesn’t take away from what he accomplished. He’s a legend, plain and simple. He’s in the UFC Hall of Fame for a reason. He’s one of those fighters that everyone remembers, and for good reason. He’s a beloved figure in the sport.
4. Khabib Nurmagomedov
Khabib
5. Amanda Nunes
Amanda Nunes, or "The Lioness" as some call her, is without a doubt the most dominant female fighter to ever step into the octagon. I mean, the woman held titles in two different weight classes simultaneously! That’s just insane. She didn’t just win; she dominated.
She’s got wins over basically everyone who’s anyone in women’s MMA. We’re talking Ronda Rousey, Cris Cyborg, Holly Holm… the list goes on. Nunes didn’t just beat them; she often finished them in devastating fashion. It’s hard to argue against her being the GOAT of women’s MMA.
Her career hasn’t been without its bumps, of course. That loss to Julianna Pena was a shocker, but she came back and avenged it like a true champion. That’s what separates the good from the great, right? The ability to bounce back from adversity. Speaking of Julianna, Kayla Harrison’s victory would be something to see.
Here’s a quick look at some of her accomplishments:
- First woman to hold two UFC titles simultaneously
- Most wins in UFC women’s history
- Wins over multiple former champions
- Known for her powerful striking and grappling
It’s easy to forget just how much Nunes has accomplished. She really did take women’s MMA to a new level. Her legacy is secure, and she’ll be talked about for years to come. She’s a true pioneer and a role model for aspiring fighters everywhere.
6. Daniel Cormier
Daniel Cormier, now a respected commentator, carved out an amazing career as a fighter. He was a force to be reckoned with, especially at light heavyweight, before he moved up and took the heavyweight title from Stipe Miocic in 2018.
After becoming a two-division champion, joining a small group of fighters who’ve achieved that feat, and sharing the Octagon with Jon Jones twice, Cormier built an impressive resume by facing some of the toughest opponents in the sport. He’s known for his wrestling background and relentless pressure.
Cormier’s journey is a testament to hard work and determination. He transitioned from wrestling to MMA seamlessly, showcasing his adaptability and skill. His ability to compete at the highest level in two different weight classes speaks volumes about his talent and dedication.
He’s definitely one of the greats, and his insights as a commentator are always on point. It’s interesting to hear his perspective, especially when he talks about Francis Ngannou’s boxing aspirations.
Here are some of Cormier’s accomplishments:
- UFC Light Heavyweight Champion
- UFC Heavyweight Champion
- Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix Winner
7. Henry Cejudo
Henry Cejudo, or "Triple C" as he likes to call himself, is a fascinating figure in MMA. He’s got that Olympic gold medal in wrestling, which is a huge deal, and he translated that into a pretty amazing MMA career. I think what makes him stand out is his ability to adapt and evolve his fighting style. He wasn’t just a wrestler trying to strike; he became a legitimate threat on his feet, which made him super dangerous.
He beat some really good guys, like Demetrious Johnson and Marlon Moraes, to become a two-division champ. That’s no small feat. He retired kind of early, which is a bummer for fans, but he definitely left his mark. It’s interesting to see how fighters like Cejudo view the sport; he understands that the old-school, tough-guy mentality isn’t always the best way to go. It’s about strategy, evolution, and understanding your opponent. Cejudo’s complex legacy in MMA reflects this.
It’s hard to deny Cejudo’s impact on the sport. He showed that with the right mindset and dedication, you can achieve incredible things, even if you’re not the biggest or strongest guy in the room.
Here’s a quick look at some of his accomplishments:
- Olympic Gold Medal (Wrestling)
- UFC Flyweight Champion
- UFC Bantamweight Champion
- One of the few two-division champions in UFC history
8. BJ Penn
BJ Penn, nicknamed "The Prodigy," is a fighter whose record (16-14-2) doesn’t fully capture his impact. He was a natural talent, earning a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu in just three years. Penn achieved the distinction of being only the second fighter in UFC history to hold titles in two different weight classes (welterweight and lightweight).
While his career ended with a series of losses, his prime showcased greatness. He was considered by many to be the greatest lightweight of all time, until Khabib came along. Penn was also a pioneer in fighting outside his weight class, often facing bigger opponents. One notable example is his 2005 fight in Japan against Lyoto Machida, who weighed 225 pounds and later became a UFC light heavyweight champion. At his peak in 2009, he was in the conversation for the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world.
Penn’s willingness to take on any challenge, regardless of size, made him a fan favorite. His Hawaiian spirit and natural fighting ability were always on display, win or lose. He’s a UFC Hall of Famer, and rightfully so.
Here’s a quick look at some of his key accomplishments:
- UFC Lightweight Champion
- UFC Welterweight Champion
- Second UFC fighter to win titles in multiple weight classes
9. Stipe Miocic
Stipe Miocic, now 42, continues to impress fans and solidify his status among the heavyweight greats. He’s known for his incredible run with three title defenses. It’s easy to see why he’s considered one of the best. He’s got a great record and has beaten some top fighters.
Miocic’s background is pretty diverse. He was a Golden Gloves boxing champion and a Division I wrestler. Plus, he played college baseball. That’s a well-rounded athlete right there. He’s also a firefighter paramedic in Ohio, which is pretty cool. He’s a true UFC Hall of Famer.
Here’s a quick look at some of his accomplishments:
- Two-time UFC heavyweight champion
- Four title defenses
- Wins against Daniel Cormier, Francis Ngannou, and Junior dos Santos
Miocic’s legacy is secure, but he’s still determined to add to it. A win against Jon Jones would definitely spark a debate about who the greatest MMA fighter of all time really is.
10. Randy Couture
Randy Couture, "The Natural," is a legend. He’s one of those guys who just seemed to get better with age. Couture wasn’t the most athletic, but his wrestling and toughness made him a force. He’s a UFC Hall of Famer, and for good reason.
He spent a good chunk of his career fighting for titles and is known as the first great heavyweight in MMA. He used his Greco-Roman wrestling skills to control opponents and deliver ground and pound. His run from 2000 to 2004 was something else, grabbing both the heavyweight and light heavyweight titles. Those fights with Tito Ortiz and Chuck Liddell? Classic MMA. He even holds the record as the oldest fighter to win a bout in UFC history at 47 years, 68 days.
Here’s a quick look at some of his accomplishments:
- Three-time UFC heavyweight champion
- Two-time UFC light heavyweight champion
- First multi-division champion in UFC history
- Most championship reigns in UFC history (six)
Couture’s longevity and ability to adapt made him a fan favorite. He wasn’t always the flashiest fighter, but he was always effective. He showed that heart and determination can take you a long way in this sport. He is also among the fighters with the most consecutive fights.
11. Chuck Liddell
Chuck "The Iceman" Liddell, with his signature mohawk, was more than just a fighter; he was a pop culture icon. Liddell wasn’t just about looks; he had the skills to back it up. A former light heavyweight champion, he defended his title four times. His rivalry with Tito Ortiz was legendary, and he was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame. Liddell’s impact extended beyond the Octagon.
Liddell’s career highlights include:
- UFC Light Heavyweight Championship
- Most knockouts in light heavyweight division history (10)
- Coaching on the first season of "The Ultimate Fighter"
Liddell’s appearance on "Dancing with the Stars" showed a different side of the fighter, one far removed from the intensity he displayed in the Octagon. It helped broaden his appeal and brought new fans to the sport.
He also holds the record for most knockdowns in UFC light heavyweight history, tied at 14. Speaking of knockdowns, Liddell is among the fighters with the most career knockdowns in UFC history.
12. Max Holloway
Max Holloway, also known as "Blessed," is a fighter that you just can’t ignore when talking about the best. He’s a former UFC Featherweight Champion and is known for his incredible striking and relentless pace. He’s one of those guys who just keeps coming at you, and his cardio seems endless.
He’s got some serious records too. For example, he landed the most strikes in UFC history, which is just insane. It shows how active and dominant he’s been in his fights. He’s also got a crazy amount of significant strikes landed.
Here’s a quick look at some of his stats:
- Former UFC Featherweight Champion
- First American to win the featherweight championship in the UFC.
- Went on a 13-fight win streak
- Most significant strikes landed in UFC history: 3,457
- Knockout wins: 13
Holloway’s fighting style is something to behold. He’s always pushing forward, throwing combinations, and putting pressure on his opponents. He’s not afraid to take a punch to land one, and that’s what makes him so exciting to watch. He’s a true warrior in the octagon.
He’s definitely earned his spot on this list. He’s a fighter who always brings it, and he’s got the stats and the accolades to back it up. He’s a true legend in the making, and I can’t wait to see what he does next. He is one of the best MMA fighters of all time.
13. Tony Ferguson
Tony Ferguson, man, what a ride. He’s one of those fighters that you just can’t help but root for, even if things haven’t exactly gone his way lately. His run was something else, though, a real testament to grit and unorthodox skill.
He’s got a bunch of finishes, too. He is known for his exciting fights. He is tied at tenth for most fight-night bonuses.
Ferguson’s style is just wild. It’s unpredictable, and he always comes to fight. You never know what he’s going to do next, and that’s what makes him so fun to watch. He’s a true entertainer, win or lose.
He’s had some wars in the octagon. Here are some fighters with the most fight-night bonuses:
- Charles Oliveira
- Jim Miller
- Donald Cerrone
- Dustin Poirier
- Nate Diaz
14. Cris Cyborg
Cris Cyborg is a force to be reckoned with. She’s held titles in multiple major organizations, including UFC, Strikeforce, Invicta FC, and Bellator. That’s a serious accomplishment, showing her dominance across different platforms. She’s a true legend in the sport.
Cyborg’s career is marked by a long undefeated streak, lasting over a decade. That kind of consistency is rare and speaks volumes about her skill and dedication. She’s a fighter who consistently delivers, making her a must-watch every time she steps into the cage.
Here are some of her accomplishments:
- Bellator Featherweight Champion
- Former UFC Featherweight Champion
- Strikeforce Champion
- Invicta FC Champion
It’s interesting to see Cris Cyborg’s boxing career taking off too. She’s clearly not one to shy away from a challenge, and it’ll be exciting to see how she continues to evolve as a fighter.
15. Ronda Rousey
Ronda Rousey, a name synonymous with the rise of women’s MMA, absolutely deserves a spot on this list. Her impact on the sport is undeniable, bringing unprecedented attention and mainstream appeal to female fighters. Before Rousey, women’s MMA was often relegated to the sidelines, but she changed all that.
She wasn’t just a fighter; she was a star. Rousey’s judo background gave her a unique edge, and her armbar finishes became her signature. She stormed through the competition, racking up a 12-0 record before facing Holly Holm. That loss to Holly Holm at UFC 193 was a shock, and her subsequent defeat against Amanda Nunes led to her retirement from MMA.
Even though her career was relatively short, Rousey’s influence is still felt today. She paved the way for future generations of female fighters and proved that women could be just as dominant and exciting as their male counterparts. She even got inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame. Now she’s doing her thing in the WWE.
Rousey’s legacy extends beyond her wins and losses. She inspired countless women to pursue their dreams in combat sports and helped break down barriers that had long existed. Her confidence and charisma made her a role model for many, and her impact on the sport will never be forgotten.
Here are some of her accomplishments:
- 2008 Olympic bronze medalist in Judo
- Former UFC Bantamweight Champion
- Six successful title defenses
16. Fabricio Werdum
Fabricio Werdum is a name that always comes up when talking about the best heavyweight fighters. He’s got a really impressive record, and he’s known for his amazing jiu-jitsu skills. Seriously, he’s one of the best submission artists to ever step into the Octagon.
He’s had some incredible wins over some huge names. I mean, submitting Fedor Emelianenko? That’s legendary. And then beating guys like Cain Velasquez to win the UFC Heavyweight title? Just wow.
Here’s a quick look at some of his accomplishments:
- Former UFC Heavyweight Champion
- Two-time Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu World Champion
- ADCC World Champion
Werdum’s career is a testament to the power of persistence and skill. He faced setbacks, but he always came back stronger, proving that he could compete with the best in the world. His ground game was just on another level, and that’s what made him so dangerous.
He might not be at the very top of everyone’s list, but you can’t deny his impact on the sport. He’s a true legend.
17. Demetrious Johnson
"Mighty Mouse" Demetrious Johnson is a name that always comes up in GOAT discussions, and for good reason. The guy was just dominant for a long time. He’s got a record of 27-3-1, which is pretty amazing when you consider the level of competition he faced. He’s known for his incredible speed, technique, and well-rounded skill set.
He was the inaugural UFC flyweight champion, and he defended that title a record 11 times. That’s insane! He just seemed unbeatable for a long time. His fights were always exciting because he could do it all – wrestle, strike, submit. He’s now fighting in ONE Championship, where he continues to prove he’s one of the best MMA fighters of all time.
Johnson’s impact on the flyweight division is undeniable. He brought legitimacy and excitement to a weight class that many initially overlooked. His technical brilliance and strategic approach to fighting set a new standard for the division.
Here are some of his accomplishments:
- Inaugural UFC Flyweight Champion
- 11 Consecutive Title Defenses in the UFC
- Current ONE Championship Flyweight Champion
- Most submissions in UFC title fights (five)
18. Frankie Edgar
Frankie Edgar, "The Answer," is a fighter who always brought it. He might not have had the most intimidating physical presence, but his heart and grit were undeniable. He’s one of those guys who just wouldn’t quit, and that’s why he’s on this list. He’s a legend, plain and simple.
Edgar’s career is marked by some serious wars. He’s known for his incredible cardio and wrestling, which allowed him to push a pace that few could match. He’s got some serious stats to back it up too. He is in the top 10 for significant strikes landed, with 1801 significant strikes.
Here’s a quick look at some of his accomplishments:
- UFC Lightweight Champion
- Multiple Fight of the Night awards
- A true warrior spirit
Edgar’s longevity in the sport is a testament to his dedication and skill. He faced a who’s who of MMA legends and always gave a good account of himself. He’s the kind of fighter that fans respect, even if they weren’t always rooting for him.
He also has a high control time percentage. He is ranked 7th for top control time with 1 hour, 32 minutes, and 34 seconds.
19. Rose Namajunas
Rose Namajunas, or "Thug Rose" as she’s known, is a fighter who brings a unique blend of skill and mental fortitude to the octagon. She’s a two-time strawweight champion in the UFC, which is no small feat. What makes her stand out? Well, she’s got a black belt in taekwondo, karate, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. That’s a diverse skillset right there.
Namajunas is the first woman in UFC history to regain a title after losing it. That shows a lot about her resilience and ability to adapt. She’s not just a physical fighter; she’s got a strong mental game too.
She’s still relatively young in the fight game, so there’s definitely potential for her to climb even higher on lists like this. It’s exciting to think about what she might accomplish in the future.
Rose Namajunas is known for her striking and grappling skills, but her mental toughness is what truly sets her apart. She’s shown the ability to bounce back from losses and perform under pressure, making her a formidable opponent in the strawweight division.
Here’s a quick look at some of her accomplishments:
- Two-time UFC Strawweight Champion
- First woman to regain a UFC title after losing it
- Black belt in multiple martial arts
- Defeated some of the biggest names in the division
It’s hard to deny her place among the greats. She’s proven herself time and time again. It will be interesting to see how Islam Makhachev’s dominance evolves in the future.
20. Michael Bisping
Michael Bisping, "The Count," carved out a legendary career marked by resilience and determination. He wasn’t always the flashiest fighter, but his grit and never-say-die attitude made him a fan favorite. Bisping’s journey to the top was a long and winding road, filled with ups and downs, but he ultimately reached the pinnacle of the sport by capturing the UFC Middleweight Championship.
Bisping’s career is a testament to hard work and perseverance. He faced numerous setbacks, including a detached retina that severely impaired his vision. Despite these challenges, he continued to fight, showcasing incredible heart and determination. His victory over Luke Rockhold to win the title is one of the most memorable moments in UFC history, proving that anything is possible with enough dedication. It’s interesting to note that Michael Bisping faced Matt Hamill at UFC 75, a fight that added to his undefeated record at the time.
Here’s a quick look at some of Bisping’s career highlights:
- UFC Middleweight Champion
- The Ultimate Fighter 3 Winner
- Longest tenured UFC fighter (at the time of retirement)
Bisping’s story is one of overcoming adversity and achieving the impossible. He wasn’t the most naturally gifted athlete, but he possessed an unwavering belief in himself and a relentless work ethic. These qualities, combined with his fighting skills, made him a true champion and an inspiration to aspiring fighters everywhere. His legacy extends beyond his accomplishments in the cage; he proved that with enough heart and determination, anything is possible.
21. Aljamain Sterling
Aljamain Sterling, often called "Funk Master," has definitely made his mark in the bantamweight division. He’s known for his grappling skills and his ability to grind out wins. While he’s faced his share of criticism, especially regarding some of his title defenses, you can’t deny his accomplishments. He’s a former champion, and that’s something few fighters can claim.
Sterling’s career has been a mix of exciting wins and controversial moments. He’s got a style that can be frustrating for opponents, but effective. He’s always working to improve, and that’s what keeps him in the conversation among the best MMA fighters today.
Here are some of his key strengths:
- Strong wrestling base
- Excellent submission skills, especially his rear-naked choke
- Cardio for days
Sterling’s journey hasn’t been without its bumps, but he’s shown resilience and determination. He’s a fighter who’s always looking to prove himself, and that makes him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division.
He’s got a few records that are worth noting:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Title defenses | 1 |
| Win Streak | 6 |
| Submission Wins | 4 |
22. Israel Adesanya
Okay, so Adesanya. Where do we even start? "The Last Stylebender" definitely made a splash in the UFC, and for a while, it felt like he was untouchable. His striking is just beautiful to watch, like a dance, but with punches and kicks that can knock you out cold. He’s got a real knack for controlling the distance and just picking apart his opponents.
But, and this is a big but, his recent performances have been… well, let’s just say they haven’t been vintage Adesanya. He’s had some tough losses, and it makes you wonder if he’s still got that fire. Still, you can’t deny what he’s accomplished. He’s a former champ, and he’s given us some seriously memorable fights. He’s still got time to turn things around, and I wouldn’t count him out just yet. He’s still got the middleweight rankings to climb.
Here’s a quick look at some of his stats:
- Reach: 80 inches
- Height: 6’4"
- Record: 24-3 (as of today’s date)
Adesanya’s impact on the sport is undeniable. He brought a new level of flair and showmanship to the UFC, and his fights are always must-see TV. Even if he’s not at the very top right now, he’s still a huge draw and a major figure in the MMA world.
He’s definitely one of those fighters that people will be talking about for years to come. Whether he can recapture his former glory remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure: he’s given us a lot to remember.
23. Thiago Alves
Thiago Alves, also known as "Pitbull," is a name that most MMA fans recognize. He’s been around for a while, and while he might not be at the very top of everyone’s list, he’s definitely earned his spot in the conversation. He’s known for his striking power and aggressive style. Alves has fought some of the best in the welterweight division.
Alves has a total of 23 UFC fights, putting him up there with some of the most active fighters in the organization. He’s known for his striking, and while he might not be at the very top in terms of takedown defense, he’s still a tough competitor. He has a respectable number of finishes in his career. Speaking of finishes, he’s got a good number of KO/TKO wins under his belt, showcasing his power. Thiago Alves has announced his retirement from combat sports following a knockout loss to Mike Perry at KnuckleMania 4.
Alves is a fighter who always brought excitement to the cage. His fights were often wars, and he never backed down from a challenge. While he may not have reached the very top of the sport, he’s a fighter who will be remembered for his toughness and willingness to go toe-to-toe with anyone.
Here’s a quick look at some of his stats:
- Number of UFC Fights: 23
- Finishes: A good amount, showcasing his ability to end fights.
- KO/TKO Wins: A testament to his striking power.
24. Donald Cerrone
Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone is a name that’s synonymous with activity and toughness in the MMA world. He’s the kind of fighter who’d take a fight on short notice, any time, any place. I always respected that about him. He’s a true gunslinger.
Cerrone holds some impressive records. He’s tied for second in most UFC fights and also tied for second in most UFC finishes. He’s also second for total fight night bonuses. The guy just knew how to put on a show.
Cowboy wasn’t always the most technical fighter, but he brought an exciting style to the cage. He was always willing to stand and trade, and that made for some memorable battles. He had a knack for submissions too, catching opponents when they least expected it.
Here’s a quick look at some of his accomplishments:
- Most Fight Night Bonuses: 18
- Most Finishes in UFC History: 23
- Significant Strikes Landed: 1748
Cerrone’s willingness to fight anyone, anywhere, made him a fan favorite. He might not have always reached the very top of the mountain, but he left a lasting impact on the sport. He’s a fighter people will remember for a long time.
25. T.J. Dillashaw and more
It’s tough to definitively rank the best ever, and plenty of fighters deserve recognition. This list could easily be twice as long, and still leave out worthy contenders. So, let’s give a shout-out to some other amazing athletes who just missed the cut.
Guys like Michael Bisping, who had a great career, and Frankie Edgar, who always brought it. Don’t forget about Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone, who always put on a show. Even though T.J. Dillashaw has faced some controversy, his skills can’t be denied. There are so many amazing fighters, it’s hard to include everyone!
It’s important to remember that these rankings are subjective and based on a variety of factors, including dominance, longevity, competition, and overall impact on the sport. Different people will have different opinions, and that’s part of what makes MMA so great.
Wrapping It Up
So, there you have it. The world of MMA has seen some incredible fighters over the years, each leaving their mark in different ways. From the early days with Royce Gracie to the modern legends like Jon Jones and Amanda Nunes, these athletes have pushed the limits of what’s possible in the sport. It’s not just about the titles or the records; it’s about the impact they’ve made on fans and the sport itself. As MMA continues to grow, we can only imagine who will rise next and how they’ll shape the future of this thrilling sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MMA?
MMA stands for Mixed Martial Arts. It is a sport that combines different fighting styles, like boxing, wrestling, and jiu-jitsu.
Who is considered the greatest MMA fighter of all time?
Many people believe Jon Jones is the greatest MMA fighter ever due to his impressive record and skills.
How many weight classes are there in MMA?
MMA has several weight classes, including lightweight, welterweight, middleweight, and heavyweight.
What is the UFC?
The UFC, or Ultimate Fighting Championship, is the biggest organization for MMA fights in the world.
Can women fight in MMA?
Yes, women can and do fight in MMA. There are many successful female fighters, like Amanda Nunes and Ronda Rousey.
How do fighters win in MMA?
Fighters can win by knockout, submission, or judges’ decision after the fight ends.
