The Best MMA Fighters To Step Into The Ring
MMA is one of the most dangerous sports, as fighters put their lives on the line. Even after taking all the precautions and safety protocols, the risk of getting seriously injured is possible. The name MMA suggests it involves multiple categories of martial arts, making it incredibly difficult to learn. MMA is more than a fight, it’s also a showcase of skill, and there have been several fighters who’ve mastered their skills to the highest level to showcase their talent to the world.
Every year, we hear about new fighters and the continuation of legacy, but not all can leave their mark. Several elements distinguish the best MMA fighters from the rest, such as accomplishments, title wins, division dominance, and quality of fights. The level of competition possessed by these fighters is commendable. A sport needs these types of athletes as they attract the masses and create noise in the industry. Moreover, it also develops fans’ interest in MMA odds.
Without further ado, let’s dive into the list of some of the best MMA fighters to step into the ring.
Georges St Pierre
Arguably the best MMA fighter of all time. His records are impeccable, and probably the most complete MMA fighter ever. Georges fought in welterweight and middleweight and won UFC Championships in both categories. In his entire career, he had 28 fights and lost only two while defeating some prominent names like Matt Hughes, Carlos Condit, and Nick Diaz.
He has the record for the most wins in welterweight title matches and the second-longest combined champion streak in the UFC. Georges retired in 2013, but some of his fights are still a treat to watch.
Khabib Nurmagomedov
Not many fighters could achieve what Khabib did in his career. Khabib retired with a clean state of 29 wins and was the longest-reigning UFC Lightweight Champion. He was also known as “the eagle”, and his dominance in the ring was unparalleled. His grappling ability and strength made him lethal.
Khabib beat some great names, such as Conor McGregor, Michael Johnson, and many more. Moreover, he was courageous, as it takes a big heart to retire at the peak of one’s career.
Jon Jones
The accolades of Jon Jones speaks volume about his career. He holds multiple UFC records such as becoming the youngest UFC Champion, second-longest winning streak, and most title defenses.
Jon won the light heavyweight championship on two occasions, one in March 2011 and the second in December 2018. In his 28 fights, Jon won 26, controversially losing one against Matt Hamill. The last time he fought was in 2020 and relinquished his title.
Jon hasn’t officially announced his retirement and probably won’t return to the ring. If he did, it would be one of the greatest returns for UFC news.
Anderson Silva
In his prime, he was brutal in the ring, possessing one of the best counterattacks. Silva was nicknamed the Spider because of his signature move, the Spider Kick. He holds the record for the longest championship streak as well as the longest winning streak in the UFC. He held the title for 2,457 days and also won 16 fights during that streak.
One of the best MMA fighters of all time retired after 46 fights with 34 wins and 11 losses. He had some memorable bouts against Vitor Belfort and Dan Henderson. However, last year, Silva returned to boxing in a match against Jake Paul but unfortunately lost the match.
Demetrious Johnson
A former champion of the UFC flyweight division and currently competing in ONE Championship. As well as holding the record for the most takedowns in Flyweight history, Johnson also has the record for his last-second submission in UFC history with a submission win against Kyoji Horiguchi in the fifth round.
He is the only UFC fighter to have recorded more than 10 takedowns in three fights. He is one of the best in the flyweight category.