Top 10 greatest mixed martial artists of all time

Mixed martial arts (MMA) has transcended its humble origins, evolving into a global phenomenon that captures the essence of raw combat. The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and other prominent MMA promotions have catapulted the sport into mainstream consciousness, challenging even the dominance of professional boxing.

As we navigate through the annals of MMA history, here are the top 10 greatest mixed martial artists of all time:

10. Conor McGregor (22-6)

Conor McGregor‘s flamboyant persona and aggressive fighting style make him a true MMA icon. The first simultaneous two-division champion in UFC history, McGregor’s trash-talking prowess and knockout ability have left an indelible mark. Beyond the cage, his foray into boxing against Floyd Mayweather showcased his global appeal, cementing his status as one of the highest-paid athletes in the world in 2021.

9. Jose Aldo (31-8)

Jose Aldo’s journey from World Extreme Cagefighting to UFC featherweight champion is a testament to his lethal Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills. With eight title defenses and an 18-fight winning streak, Aldo’s dominance defined an era. Despite a 2015 loss to McGregor, Aldo’s legacy remained intact, culminating in his retirement in 2022 after an illustrious career.

8. Daniel “D.C.” Cormier (22-3-1 NC)

A force in Strikeforce and UFC, Daniel Cormier’s grappling prowess catapulted him to two-weight-class champion status. Cormier, the second fighter in UFC history to hold titles simultaneously, retired gracefully after back-to-back losses to Stipe Miocic. Now thriving as a UFC commentator, Cormier’s strategic brilliance inside the octagon continues to resonate.

7. Stipe Miocic (20-4)

Former Golden Gloves boxing champion, Division I wrestler, and baseball player, Stipe Miocic personifies athleticism. A two-time UFC heavyweight champion with four title defenses, Miocic’s victories over elite competitors showcase his diverse skill set. Balancing his fighting career with a role as a firefighter paramedic underscores his unwavering dedication.

6. Fedor “The Last Emperor” Emelianenko (41-7-1 NC)

Though never gracing the UFC, Fedor Emelianenko remains a heavyweight legend. A power puncher with reckless ground-and-pound skills, Emelianenko’s versatility was showcased in Pride, Strikeforce, and Bellator. His absence from the UFC only adds to the mystique surrounding this MMA icon.

5. Anderson Silva (34-11-1 NC)

Anderson Silva’s reign as middleweight champion, spanning 2,457 days, is an unparalleled feat in UFC history. A striking maestro, Silva’s 16-fight win streak and 10 middleweight title defenses solidify his standing as the greatest in his division. Despite setbacks later in his career, Silva’s resiliency and will to win remain etched in MMA lore.

4. Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson (27-3-1)

Despite his stature at 5-foot-3 and 125 pounds, Demetrious Johnson’s wrestling prowess and lightning-fast takedowns set him apart. The UFC’s first flyweight champion with 11 title defenses, Johnson’s dominance in the flyweight division is unparalleled. Now plying his trade in ONE Championship, Johnson’s legacy continues to grow.

3. George St-Pierre (26-2)

George St-Pierre’s ascent from childhood adversity to welterweight greatness is the stuff of legends. A 13-fight winning streak with nine title defenses showcases St-Pierre’s wrestling acumen and record-setting takedowns. The rare fighter who walked away at the pinnacle, St-Pierre’s legacy remains untouched.

2. Khabib “The Eagle” Nurmagomedov (29-0)

Khabib Nurmagomedov’s flawless record and dominant ground game define his legacy. Victories over top contenders like McGregor, Gaethje, Poirier, and Dos Anjos solidify Khabib as one of the greatest lightweights. Retiring in his prime with an unblemished record, Khabib’s legacy looms large over the lightweight division.

1. Jon “Bones” Jones (27-1-1 NC)

Jon Jones’ meteoric rise to light heavyweight dominance, with 11 title defenses, establishes him as the greatest in his division. Wins over legendary fighters like Rampage Jackson, Rashad Evans, and Daniel Cormier showcase Jones’ versatility. Recent success in the heavyweight division, culminating in a championship win, cements Jones’ legacy as the GOAT.

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