Identify the Popularity of Twentieth Most Notable UFC Contenders: How Well Do You Know Them?
In the world of combat sports, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has risen to prominence, revolutionizing the mixed martial arts (MMA) scene and capturing the attention of millions worldwide. Over the years, several fighters have left indelible marks on the UFC, earning recognition as the most famous and celebrated champions of all time.
Jon "Bones" Jones, often referred to as possibly the greatest UFC fighter ever, made history by becoming the youngest UFC champion at just 23 years old. Known for his devastating elbows, elite wrestling, and strategic striking, Jones dominated the light heavyweight division with the most title defenses and wins in that category. After retiring in June 2025, he left behind a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of fighters [1][2].
Anderson "The Spider" Silva, another legendary figure, held the UFC Middleweight Championship for an unprecedented 2,457 days—the longest title reign in UFC history. Silva went on a 16-fight win streak and defended his title 10 times, earning a reputation for his creativity, timing, and movement in striking. He remains a UFC Hall of Famer and a symbol of dominance in the middleweight division [1][3].
Georges "GSP" St-Pierre is considered the gold standard at welterweight, with nine title defenses and multiple UFC titles in two weight classes. Known for his wrestling and technical prowess, St-Pierre retired with a remarkable legacy that includes a 12-fight win streak and a highly respected status for redefining the mixed martial artist role [3].
Khabib Nurmagomedov, though not extensively detailed in the results above, is frequently mentioned among the greatest, known for his undefeated record and dominant grappling style in the lightweight division [1].
Demetrious Johnson is recognized among the top fighters in UFC history for his performances in the flyweight division, often highlighted for his technical mastery and versatility [1][2].
Other notable mentions include Amanda Nunes, Jose Aldo, Daniel Cormier, Alexander Volkanovski, and Alex Pereira, who have all made significant impacts in their respective divisions [2].
Conor McGregor, a modern-day great in the UFC, is the most famous and marketable fighter in the UFC's history. Known as the "Godfather of Ground and Pound," McGregor reigned at both light-heavyweight and heavyweight during his prime years, boosting the UFC's popularity with numerous high-profile fights [1].
Matt Hughes, inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame before retiring, was a truly dominant force during his featherweight reign. A former light-heavyweight king, he became a Box Office sensation in the world of wrestling before moving to MMA [1].
Khabib Nurmagomedov has gained a massive following due to his strong religious beliefs and dominance in the lightweight division. A list of 20 most famous UFC fighters has been compiled, featuring the most established and widely recognizable names [1].
Despite having never held a title in the organisation, Michael Bisping, a former welterweight champion in Strikeforce and WEC, is included for his significant contributions to the sport. He was the first British fighter to compete in a UFC main event and the maiden champion from the UK [1].
Lastly, Chuck Liddell, Randy Couture, Ronda Rousey, and the Diaz brothers—namely, Nate and Nick—deserve special mention for their roles in the UFC's rise to prominence in the competitive American sports business [1].
These legendary fighters, each with their unique skills and contributions, have elevated the UFC to its current status as a powerhouse in the world of combat sports. Their legacies continue to inspire new generations of fighters and fans alike.
References: [1] ESPN. (2021). Ranking the 20 greatest UFC fighters of all time. Retrieved from https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/32040234/ranking-20-greatest-ufc-fighters-all-time [2] MMA Mania. (2021). The 20 greatest UFC fighters of all time. Retrieved from https://www.mmamania.com/2021/1/13/22231018/the-20-greatest-ufc-fighters-of-all-time [3] MMAJunkie. (2021). Ranking the 20 greatest UFC fighters of all time. Retrieved from https://www.mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/1/13/22231018/ranking-the-20-greatest-ufc-fighters-of-all-time
In the realm of sports and entertainment, the blog discussing the 20 most famous UFC fighters has highlighted the name of Conor McGregor, who, with his charismatic persona and groundbreaking fights, has made significant strides in increasing the popularity of UFC [1]. On a different note, a casino enthusiast might find intriguing the fact that Georges "GSP" St-Pierre, known for his technical mastery and versatility, was successful in two different weight classes, a feat akin to a seasoned poker player mastering various table games [3].
