Welcome to the pinnacle of MMA excitement! On December 16, get ready for the grand finale of UFC activities across male and female categories in 2023 – UFC 296.

This spectacular event marks the culmination of an entire year of thrilling battles, making it the ultimate end-of-the-year extravaganza.

Join us as UFC 296 takes center stage, promising a night of intense action, unforgettable moments, and the crowning glory of a year filled with adrenaline-fueled matchups.

UFC 296 Main card

The spotlight gleams on the welterweight zenith as the indomitable Leon Edwards, a symbol of England’s fighting pride, squares off against the resilient Colby Covington in the dazzling city of Las Vegas.

Edwards, having conquered a trilogy, now seeks fresh challenges, while Covington, controversially granted a third title shot, aims to etch his name in the annals of UFC history with wins over now-retired foes.

The co-main event ushers us into a breath-stealing encounter between flyweight monarch Alexandre Pantoja and the dynamo Brandon Royal. 

Pantoja, victorious in a grueling title clash at UFC 290, now faces Royval, a rising force riding a three-fight winning streak, each adorned with consecutive bonuses. The promise of action-packed brilliance hangs in the air.

As the main event and co-main event dazzle, the undercard unleashes its excitement. Stephen Thompson, the venerable “Wonderboy,” collides with the rising Shavkat Rakhmonov in a welterweight showdown. 

The lightweight realm witnesses the return of the resilient Paddy Pimblett against the seasoned Tony Ferguson, adding a layer of intrigue to the mix.

The PPV spectacle kicks off with an explosive welterweight clash between Ian Machado Garry and the relentless Vicente Luque, setting the Octagon ablaze and ensuring an unforgettable night for fervent MMA aficionados.

UFC 296: Bryce Mitchell replaces Giga Chikadze

However, fate, in its unpredictable glory, throws a curveball into the mix. In a sudden twist, Bryce “Thug Nasty” Mitchell boldly steps into the fray on short notice to face the formidable Josh Emmett. 

Mitchell’s spontaneous acceptance injects an element of unpredictability, replacing the originally slated Giga Chikadze.

Emmett, striving for redemption after a back-to-back losing streak, now readies himself for the challenges posed by Mitchell’s multifaceted skill set.

Despite the disappointment over Chikadze’s injury, fight enthusiasts can expect nothing short of a riveting performance from Mitchell. Known not only for his grappling prowess but also for his in-cage theatrics, such as holding a Bible aloft and passionately shouting “freedom,” Mitchell promises a unique flavor to the featherweight clash.

Other UFC 296 Matchups

The UFC 296 fight card continues to unfurl its tapestry of excitement with compelling matchups, including Cody Garbrandt vs. Brian Kelleher, Josh Emmett vs. Bryce Mitchell, and the heavyweight thunder between Martin Buday and Shamil Gaziev. 

Featherweights Lucas Almeida and Andre Fili prepare for their explosive finale, aiming to etch their names in the collective memory of fight fans.

Conclusion

As the anticipation crescendos, UFC 296 stands poised not merely as a showcase of physical prowess. It also promises to be a captivating saga that transcends weight divisions, delivering an adrenaline-soaked experience for MMA enthusiasts worldwide.

Subscribe to Theweasel for the latest in combat sports news, because the symphony of UFC 296 promises to echo in the hearts of fight fans for years to come.

UFC coaches are the north star in the life of professional mixed martial artists.

Quality coaching plays a pivotal role in the success of mixed martial artists in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

Fighters with qualified coaches are more likely to benefit from their professional tutelage and guidance.

Here, we delve into some of the best UFC coaches who have made significant contributions to the success of their fighters.

Coach Greg Jackson

Greg Jackson, a highly influential figure in MMA coaching, operates the renowned Jackson Wink MMA gym in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

His coaching philosophy emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on physical conditioning, technical training, and mental preparation to mold well-rounded fighters. 

Jackson’s strategic brilliance is evident in his ability to identify fighters’ strengths and weaknesses, tailoring training regimens to enhance strengths and address weaknesses. 

He co-founded the Jackson Wink MMA Academy and has successfully coached UFC champions like Jon Jones and Georges St-Pierre. Jackson’s adaptability and effective game plans have solidified his standing as one of the top coaches in the UFC.

Coach Mike Brown

Mike Brown, a former WEC featherweight champion, transitioned seamlessly into coaching. As the head coach at American Top Team, Brown has been instrumental in shaping the careers of UFC champions like Amanda Nunes and Dustin Poirier.

He emphasizes fight IQ and strategic executions. Which has propelled his fighters to the pinnacle of the sport.

Mike Brown, a former WEC lightweight champion and one of the lead coaches at American Top Team (ATT) in Coconut Creek, Florida, has established himself as a coaching stalwart. 

His expertise spans various martial arts disciplines, enabling him to provide comprehensive training for a diverse range of fighters.

Brown’s notable students include Dustin Poirier, Jorge Masvidal, and Joanna Jędrzejczyk.

Coach Mark Henry

Mark Henry, renowned for his influence in the UFC’s lightweight division, is the head coach of the Ricardo Almeida BJJ Academy. 

His expertise in boxing has significantly contributed to the success of fighters like Frankie Edgar and Eddie Alvarez. Working with top-tier athletes such as Edson Barboza, Henry is widely respected for his technical acumen. 

His strategic approach involves developing game plans that leverage his fighters’ strengths while exploiting opponents’ weaknesses. 

With an emphasis on attention to detail, Mark Henry’s coaching style has produced champions across multiple weight classes, making him a standout figure in the world of MMA coaching.

Javier Mendez

Javier Mendez, the founder and head coach of American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) in San Jose, California, stands as a coaching titan in the UFC.

His gym has produced champions like Khabib Nurmagomedov, Daniel Cormier, and Cain Velasquez. 

Mendez is recognized for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to instill a relentless work ethic in his fighters. Emphasizing discipline, hard work, and mental toughness, Mendez has played a key role in shaping the success of his athletes inside the Octagon.

Trevor Wittman

Trevor Wittman, the founder of Reign Training Camp in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, is a leading innovator in MMA coaching.

His approach is marked by a scientific emphasis, incorporating data-driven analytics and advanced conditioning techniques to optimize fighter performance. 

Wittman’s stable of champions includes Jorge Masvidal, Kamaru Usman, and Namajunas, showcasing the success of his forward-thinking methods in the world of mixed martial arts.

Firas Zahabi

Firas Zahabi, the founder and head coach of Tristar Gym in Montreal, Canada, is renowned for his unique coaching style. He encourages fighters like Georges St-Pierre, Rory MacDonald, and others to cultivate their strengths and styles, breaking away from conventional techniques. 

Zahabi’s emphasis on precision, discipline, and well-rounded skill sets has consistently led to success inside the Octagon.

Known for his strategic brilliance, Zahabi’s approach to coaching has solidified his reputation as one of the best in the sport, contributing to the achievements of his protégés.

Conclusion

These UFC coaches stand out for their unique approaches, bringing success through strategic brilliance, technical mastery, and discipline focus. They’ve left an indelible mark, shaping the careers of some of the UFC’s most successful fighters.

The UFC has thrilled the audience with unforgettable comebacks. Fighters defy the odds, showcasing unmatched resilience and determination.

Join us in reliving the best UFC comebacks that etched indelible moments in mixed martial arts history.

Shocking Combacks In UFC History

Anderson Silva’s comeback at UFC 117

At UFC 117, the showdown between Anderson Silva and Chael Sonnen was something else. Sonnen had the upper hand for nearly five rounds, putting Silva in a tight spot.

But, in those final minutes of the fifth round, Silva pulled off this incredible triangle armbar move, turning the tables and keeping his middleweight title.

Anderson Silva at UFC 117

It’s not just about winning; it’s this story of Silva refusing to give up. The guy went through a beating, but his determination and resilience paid off. This comeback isn’t just about belts; it’s about the spirit of a true fighter. 

UFC 117 isn’t just a fight; it’s a chapter in Anderson Silva’s legacy, showing what it means to be a champion in the world of mixed martial arts.

Kongo’s unexpected comeback vs Pat Barry

At the UFC on Versus 4 event in June 2011, the heavyweight brawl between Pat Barry and Cheick Kongo took an unforeseen turn. Despite Barry knocking Kongo down twice, victory seemed imminent. 

Yet, in a gripping twist, Kongo delivered a powerful right hand that caught Barry off guard, leading to Kongo’s stunning comeback win via Knockout. 

UFC 116: Brock Lesnar vs. Shane Carwin

The way Brock Lesnar’s showdown with Shane Carwin at UFC 116 unfolded was a testament to grit and tenacity. 

Despite getting rocked early in the first round, Lesnar hung tough, weathering Carwin’s onslaught.

Then, in a remarkable turn, Lesnar rallied in the second round, locking in an arm-triangle choke that led to Carwin tapping out.

This fight wasn’t just about techniques and submissions; it was about Lesnar’s ability to bounce back from adversity, showing the human side of a fighter in the raw intensity of the Octagon. 

UFC 116 wasn’t just a victory for Lesnar; it was a display of resilience and the indomitable spirit that defines the heart of a fighter in the world of mixed martial arts.

Nate Diaz vs Conor McGregor

In the heat of UFC 196 in 2016, Nate Diaz, jumping in on short notice, faced off against the formidable Conor McGregor.

Battling through an early storm, Diaz pulled off a shocker by submission. McGregor gave in during the second round. 

It wasn’t just a fight; it was a testament to Diaz’s resilience and his knack for turning things around when the odds seemed stacked against him. 

Frankie Edgar vs. Gray Maynard II

In a gripping contest for the UFC lightweight title, Frankie Edgar faced Gray Maynard’s relentless assault, undergoing a brutal first-round test.

Despite appearing on the brink of defeat, Edgar summoned extraordinary resilience, showcasing heart and determination. 

As the fight progressed, Edgar weathered Maynard’s storm, leading to a hard-fought draw that preserved his championship and solidified the battle in UFC history.

Beyond the immediate triumph, the bout highlighted Edgar’s indomitable spirit and ability to triumph over adversity. 

This resilient performance laid the foundation for the anticipated trilogy with Maynard, promising fans another thrilling chapter in their fierce rivalry.

Stipe Miocic vs Daniel Cormier 

At UFC 241, Stipe Miocic found himself grappling with adversity early on against Daniel Cormier. Undeterred, Miocic recalibrated his approach, focusing on Cormier’s body, ultimately clinching a knockout victory in the fourth round. 

This comeback wasn’t just about reclaiming the heavyweight title; it solidified Miocic’s standing as a resilient champion, showcasing his adaptability and unwavering determination in the face of challenges.

Matt Hughes vs. Frank Trigg II 

In a welterweight title bout at UFC 52, Matt Hughes etched his name in history with a remarkable comeback against Frank Trigg. 

Despite being rocked and nearly submitted, Hughes rallied to secure a rear-naked choke, retaining his title in a memorable victory. 

Dana White, synonymous with the UFC, played a pivotal role in turning MMA into a global sensation as its president. From his roots as a boxing instructor to now a sports figurehead, his journey is truly captivating.

Today, we delve into the defining moments that shaped his legacy, tracing his rise from humble beginnings to leading the UFC globally.

Join us in exploring the highs and lows of White’s extraordinary career in the Octagon, a journey that started with teaching boxing and led to steering the UFC to greatness.

Early Life of Dana White

Dana White, born on July 28, 1969, in Manchester, Connecticut, grew up in a working-class family. His interest in combat sports started early. After finishing high school, he went to the University of Massachusetts Boston, where he began boxing training. White’s passion led him to open his boxing gym and work as an instructor.

In 1992, a significant turning point came when he met Lorenzo Fertitta, a childhood friend turned business partner. 

The Fertitta brothers, successful entrepreneurs intrigued by combat sports, joined forces with White. Together, they envisioned transforming the struggling UFC into a mainstream success.

Dana White became UFC President

In 2001, the Fertitta brothers bought the UFC, making Dana White its president. They revamped the UFC significantly under White’s leadership, introducing weight classes and rules that legitimized the sport. 

White’s bold and sometimes controversial promotion style played a crucial role in the UFC’s ascent. Known for his daring approach and willingness to take risks, he has both admirers and critics.

Despite challenges, White’s vision and determination have played a key role in turning the UFC into a global powerhouse.

Controversies and Criticisms

Dana White’s career is marked by controversy. Criticisms target his aggressive UFC promotion and concerns about fighter compensation and labor relations. 

Recent scrutiny includes the UFC’s approach to health and safety, especially regarding concussions and injuries. Debates arise on MMA’s long-term impact on athletes and the necessary measures for their well-being. 

White’s management style and public image continually draw both praise and criticism.

Legacy and Impact

Despite controversies, Dana White undeniably shaped sports. His relentless drive elevated the UFC to global stardom, boasting a massive fan base and lucrative TV deals. White’s adept navigation of sports, entertainment, and media solidified his industry prominence.

Beyond business, his impact on MMA is undeniable. A vocal advocate for athletes, White worked to improve opportunities and recognition. His efforts elevated MMA and its fighters, opening doors for a new generation fighters like McGregor, Israel Adesanya, and many more. to pursue dreams in the sport.

Personal Life

Away from the limelight, Dana White is a committed family man, married to Anne White, and a father of three.

Despite his busy schedule, he emphasizes the balance between his professional and personal life. Known for philanthropy, White supports various charitable causes.

Dana White and wife

With a net worth of around $500 million as of 2023, White serves as the UFC president, contributing significantly to its growth.

Beyond business, his philanthropic endeavors include a $1 million donation to a brain health center and generous contributions to causes like Dustin Poirier’s charity and many others.

While limited information exists about his hobbies, White’s lifelong involvement in combat sports, especially boxing, and his passion for poker, evident in high-stakes tournaments, are known. Details about his religion remain undisclosed.

Conclusion

Dana White’s journey from a humble boxing instructor to the president of the UFC is a testament to his passion, determination, and vision. 

His impact on the world of sports and entertainment is undeniable, and his legacy will continue to shape the future of MMA for years to come. 

Love him or loathe him, there is no denying that Dana White has left an indelible mark on the world of combat sports.

UFC begins her journey from a tough spot. It took a lot of work to become a household name is a phenomenon that deserves attention.

The promotion was founded in 1993 and celebrated its 30th anniversary recently.

The promotion’s triumph is a testament to perseverance, innovation, strategic marketing, and above all, effective leadership.

Let’s delve into the pivotal factors that have fueled the UFC’s evolution and unparalleled success.

Early Days Of UFC

The UFC used to have a notorious reputation. It was perceived as a gritty and underground sport that lacked the respect and widespread appeal given to traditional sports like basketball, boxing, or football. 

It was owned by Semaphore Entertainment Group (SEG), and financial troubles led to the UFC’s sale to Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta in 2001. The Fertitta brothers established Zuffa to operate the UFC, appointing Dana White as the company’s president.

Everything changed under the guidance of visionary leadership who reformed the organization. The proof of this is the unparalleled success achieved by the promotion.

During its early phases, the UFC promoted its events as a quest to find the most efficient martial art, sparking a mix of curiosity and doubt. The UFC faced numerous challenges, including disapproval, regulatory hurdles, and concerns about safety and credibility. 

Despite these hurdles, the organization actively addressed the issues, by enhancing safety measures and satisfying regulatory concerns, both of which changed the public perception.

This bold approach played a crucial role in the UFC’s journey from an unconventional and controversial activity to a widely recognized, approved, and respected sport. The deliberate steps and inclusive measures, propelled the UFC into the mainstream, ultimately contributing to its remarkable success in the world of sports.

 Evolution of UFC

One of the many crucial factors in the UFC’s success is its adaptability. In the early 2000s, the sport faced criticism and regulatory hurdles, causing a decline in popularity. 

Under Dana White and the Fertitta brothers, the organization responded by implementing stricter rules and prioritizing disciplined athletes. This strategic shift enhanced the sport’s image and broadened its audience.

While navigating from humble origins to global acclaim, the UFC confronted challenges, exemplified by the attempt to establish the Women’s Flyweight division in 2017. 

A fight scene from the early days of UFC

Despite initial enthusiasm, roster difficulties led to its discontinuation in 2019, highlighting the intricacies of expanding and sustaining specific weight classes in the organization’s evolution.

This proactive approach not only tackled challenges head-on but also positioned the UFC for a significant resurgence in popularity.

International Expansion

The UFC’s foray into international markets proved instrumental in its ascent to mainstream success. Through hosting events in diverse countries and recruiting fighters worldwide, the organization successfully tapped into new markets, fostering a global fan base.

This international expansion not only bolstered revenue but also cemented the UFC’s status as a genuinely global sport.

The strategic outreach and inclusivity in recruiting fighters from various regions contributed significantly to the organization’s widespread recognition and popularity on a global scale.

Marketing and Branding

The UFC’s success owes much to strategic marketing initiatives, encompassing the development of a robust brand, active engagement with fans via digital and social media, and forging partnerships with diverse stakeholders.

A pioneer in leveraging social media, streaming platforms, and digital marketing, the organization has effectively connected with its audience. 

Features such as live event streaming, interactive fan polls, and direct engagement with fighters on social media platforms have collectively cultivated a strong sense of community and belonging among fans. 

This innovative approach not only enhances the fan experience but also solidifies the UFC’s position as a leader in modern sports marketing.

Conclusion

The UFC’s global success is a testament to perseverance, innovation, and strategic marketing. Through adaptation, international expansion, and groundbreaking strategies. 

It transformed from a niche sport to a sports and entertainment giant. The journey highlights the power of brand-building, vision, teamwork, and dedication to excellence.

Title defense is a occur when a title holder successfully defends their title against a challenger.

Winning a UFC title is hard but defending it is twice harder. Do you know why? It’s because being a champion puts a lot of top-tier targets on your back.

However, as hard as it seems, some badass UFC female fighters manage to achieve this feat on multiple occasions. 

Here is the list of UFC female fighters with the most title defenses.

• Amanda Nunes’s 10 title defenses

Born on May 30, 1988, in Brazil, Amanda Nunes, fondly known as “The Lioness,” stands as the unrivaled force in the UFC, with a remarkable 22-5 record. Her journey unfolds as a tale of dominance, weaving through two weight divisions—bantamweight and featherweight.

Amanda Nunes with two titles.

Notably, The Lioness holds the UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship twice, defending it five times, and the Women’s Featherweight Championship once, with two successful defenses. 

Beyond statistics, her legacy pulses with the energy of versatility, showcased in her victories over renowned fighters.

Facing the likes of Ronda Rousey, Valentina Shevchenko (twice), Raquel Pennington, Holly Holm, and Germaine de Randamie, Nunes’s triumphs read like chapters in a story of unparalleled skill and resilience.

While her recent retirement adds a bittersweet note, Nunes leaves behind a human story of triumph, embodying the essence of female fighting excellence and etching her name as the undisputed queen in the vibrant history of the UFC.

• Valentina Shevchenko 7 title defenses

Marching into the UFC spotlight, Valentina Shevchenko, or “The Bullet,” emerges as a formidable force in the flyweight division, defending her title with precision and flair.

Born on March 7, 1988, in Kyrgyzstan, Shevchenko boasts a stellar 23-4 record, signaling her prowess as a versatile fighter in both bantamweight and flyweight divisions.

In the Women’s Flyweight division, Shevchenko’s dominance echoes through seven successful title defenses, with her latest showcase of skill on June 12, 2022. 

A fighting goddess, Shevchenko’s journey spans various disciplines—Muay Thai, taekwondo, boxing, judo, and kickboxing.

Her mastery culminated in an extraordinary seven-defense streak, only recently halted by Alexa Grasso. This setback fuels her quest to reclaim the title, positioning her for further glory.

Victories over formidable opponents like Joanna Jedrzejczyk, Jessica Eye, Liz Carmouche, Katlyn Chookagian, and Jennifer Maia underline her well-rounded excellence in both striking and grappling.

Shevchenko, the queen of precision, continues to etch her name as one of the most skilled fighters in UFC history.

• Joanna Jedrzejczyk 5 defenses

Hailing from Poland, Joanna Jedrzejczyk, once known as the “Polish Hammer,” carved her legacy in the UFC’s Women’s Strawweight division with a formidable 16-5 record. 

Joanna Jedrzejczyk

In 2014, the division quickly witnessed Jedrzejczyk’s dominance, becoming its second champion in 2015. Her aggressive striking and technical footwork marked a reign that saw her defend the title five times.

Jedrzejczyk’s journey in the strawweight division reached its pinnacle with victories over Jessica Penne, Valerie Letourneau, Claudia Gadelha (twice), and Karolina Kowalkiewicz. Each defense showcased her striking prowess, underlining her ability to overwhelm opponents with relentless pressure. 

The streak, however, met its end in 2017 at the hands of Rose Namajunas, yet Jedrzejczyk’s contributions endure, solidifying her as one of the greatest female fighters in UFC history. 

• Ronda Rousey 6 defenses

Ronda Rousey is an American trailblazer, who captivated the world with her submission prowess, earning the distinction of being the first female UFC champion. 

Born on February 1, 1987, her legacy in the Women’s Bantamweight division is etched with a record of 12-2, marked by an impressive reign defending the title six times.

Rousey’s impact transcends the octagon; she not only showcased dominance with her armbar finishes but also paved the way for women in the UFC, becoming a beacon of inspiration for a generation of female athletes. 

In the realm of iconic victories, Rousey’s armbars and swift finishes became emblematic in women’s MMA.

Triumphs over formidable opponents like Miesha Tate (twice), Sara McMann, Alexis Davis, and Cat Zingano solidified her status as a pioneer. 

Despite her last title defense occurring on August 1, 2015, Rousey’s impact on the sport and the empowerment of female athletes resonates far beyond her time in the octagon.

Title defenses pose a unique challenge in the world of UFC. Unlike snagging a title initially, defending it truly separates the champions from the contenders, as Althea Gibson wisely noted. 

So now imagine successfully defending it multiple times, shouldn’t that be considered a feat? It’s like a football team maintaining a winning streak across all competitions. 

This article delves into the remarkable feats of the UFC male fighters with the most title defenses.

• Jon Jones’s 13 title defenses 

Jon “Bones” Jones, a powerhouse in the light heavyweight division. His journey began in 2011 when, at just 23, he clinched the UFC championship by defeating Shogun Rua at UFC 128. What followed was a remarkable reign with a record-setting 13 successful title defenses.

Jon Jones

Jones not only defended his title but also boasts records for the most wins, most submission victories, and the longest win streak in the 205-pound division. 

His list of conquered challengers reads like a who’s who of the division, including Quinton Jackson, Lyoto Machida, Rashad Evans, and Daniel Cormier, to name a few.

Transitioning to the heavyweight category in March 2020, Jones left an indelible mark on the light heavyweight division, solidifying his status as one of the UFC’s all-time greats.

•  Demetrious Johnson – Flyweight (11 Title Defenses)

In another weight class, Demetrious Johnson, a maestro in the flyweight division, began his era of dominance in 2012. His championship defense record stands at an impressive 11 times. 

Notable opponents like John Dodson (twice), Joseph Benavidez (in a rematch), Ali Bagautinov, and Henry Cejudo tested him.

Despite a setback in a rematch against Cejudo at UFC 227 in August 2018, where he suffered a split decision loss, Johnson’s legacy endures. 

He was later traded to ONE Championship for Ben Askren, where he triumphed in the ONE Flyweight Grand Prix tournament, showcasing his resilience and skill on a global stage.

• Anderson Silva – Middleweight (10 Title Defenses)

Anderson Silva, known as the “Spider,” left an indelible mark in UFC history with 10 title defenses, securing the No. 3 spot. 

His journey began in October 2006, claiming the middleweight title by defeating Rich Franklin.

The ‘Spider’ defended his title against a formidable lineup, including Nate Marquardt, Rich Franklin (in a rematch), Dan Henderson, and Chael Sonnen (twice).

Silva holds records for the most finishes in title fights (nine) and the highest number of fights in the middleweight division (13).

Chris Weidman ultimately ended Silva’s reign in a championship showdown in 2013.

• Jose Aldo – Featherweight weight ( 7 Title Defenses)

Jose Aldo, a featherweight legend, notched an impressive seven title defenses since the WEC merged with the UFC in 2010. 

Facing tough opponents like Mark Hominick, Kenny Florian, and Chad Mendes, Aldo showcased his dominance. 

Despite a setback against Conor McGregor in 2015, Aldo seized redemption in July 2016, reclaiming the title with a victory over Frankie Edgar.

• Georges St-Pierre – Welterweight (9 Title Defenses)

Georges St-Pierre, the esteemed Canadian MMA athlete, rebounded from a disappointing loss to Matt Serra in his first title defense. 

Reclaiming his welterweight belt in a rematch in April 2008, St-Pierre went on to retain his championship an impressive nine times. His reign included victories over Jon Fitch, BJ Penn, and Johnny Hendricks. 

After relinquishing his title in 2013, GSP made a triumphant return, securing the middleweight championship by defeating Michael Bisping in November 2017.

Conclusion 

In the relentless arena of the UFC, fighters like Jon Jones, Demetrious Johnson, Anderson Silva, Jose Aldo, and Georges St-Pierre forged legacies through tenacious title defenses. 

From Jones’s record-setting reign to Silva’s mesmerizing performances, each defense added layers to their stories. Aldo showcased resilience, and St-Pierre, after a hiatus, returned triumphantly. 

These champions transcend mere winners; they are legends and their multiple title defenses are a testament to that.

UFC Rankings is like the leaderboard for a given weight class. The rankings are the comparative standings of the top active fighters in the given weight division.

How is UFC Ranking Determined?

UFC Rankings are determined through a panel of media members, journalists, and UFC commentators. The panel votes on the top fighters in each division, and the averaged results from the weekly UFC rankings. 

The criteria for voting involve the panel’s subjective assessment of a division’s top performers. This means that other people may have a different opinion on who should or should not be on the ranking, it’s subjective, unlike science. 

Pound-For-Pound UFC Rankings:

Pound-for-pound rankings are the comparative standings of all the champions and top-standing fighters of all the weight divisions combined. 

It’s like the overall best player or student award. The creamiest of the cream across all divisions.

Pound-For-Pound UFC Rankings:

1. Islam Makhachev (25-1-0): Makhachev claims the top spot with an impressive record and a relentless fighting style.

2. Jon Jones (27-1-0): A perennial force, Jones continues to showcase his prowess and remains a stalwart in the Pound-For-Pound hierarchy.

3. Alexander Volkanovski (26-3-0): The featherweight champion proves his mettle, earning a spot among the Pound-For-Pound elite.

4. Leon Edwards (21-3-0): Riding high in the welterweight division, Edwards solidifies his standing with a formidable record.

Flyweight Division UFC Ranking:

Champion: Alexandre Pantoja (26-5-0)

Brandon Moreno (21-7-2): A relentless contender, Moreno eyes the flyweight throne with an impressive track record.

2. Deiveson Figueiredo (21-3-1): Former champion Figueiredo remains a potent force in the division.

3. Amir Albazi (17-1-0): Albazi’s ascent in the flyweight ranks showcases his potential for future contention.

4. Brandon Royval (15-6-0): Known for his exciting style, Royval looks to climb the flyweight ladder.

Lightweight Division UFC Ranking :

Champion: Islam Makhachev (25-1-0)

1. Charles Oliveira (34-9-1): The seasoned Oliveira eyes the lightweight throne, showcasing a mix of striking and grappling prowess.

2. Justin Gaethje (25-4-0): Gaethje’s explosive style and knockout power keep him in the championship conversation.

3. Dustin Poirier (29-8-1): A fan favorite, Poirier’s resilience and striking make him a constant contender.

4. Beneil Dariush (22-5-1): Dariush’s well-rounded skills and recent victories position him as a threat in the lightweight division.

Welterweight Division:

Champion: Leon Edwards (21-3-0)

1. Kamaru Usman (20-4-0): The welterweight king, Usman’s dominance and strategic brilliance make him a formidable champion.

2. Belal Muhammad (23-3-1): Muhammad’s consistent performances and resilience place him as a top contender in the division.

3. Colby Covington (17-3-0): Known for his intense rivalries, Covington’s skill set keeps him among the welterweight elite.

4. Gilbert Burns (22-6-0): Burns’ grappling prowess and striking ability continue to make him a force in the division.

Middleweight Division:

Champion: Sean Strickland (28-5-0)

1. Israel Adesanya (24-3-0): Former champion Adesanya remains a striking virtuoso and a top contender in the middleweight division.

2. Dricus Du Plessis (20-2-0): Du Plessis’ explosive style and finishing ability make him a dark horse in the division.

3. Robert Whittaker (24-7-0): The former champion Whittaker’s well-rounded skills keep him among the middleweight elite.

4. Jared Cannonier (17-6-0): Known for his power, Cannonier is a constant threat in the middleweight division.

Light Heavyweight Division:

Champion: Alex Pereira (9-2-0)

1. Jamahal Hill (12-1-0): Hill’s striking prowess and recent performances have elevated him in the light heavyweight division.

2. Jiri Prochazka (29-4-1): Prochazka’s dynamic style and knockout power make him a thrilling contender in the division.

3. Magomed Ankalaev (18-1-1): Ankalaev’s consistent performances showcase his potential for a bright future in the division.

4. Jan Blachowicz (29-10-1): The former champion Blachowicz’s experience and well-rounded game keep him in the title conversation.

Heavyweight Division:

Champion: Jon Jones (27-1-0)

1. Tom Aspinall (14-3-0): Aspinall’s impressive performances and finishing ability make him a rising star in the heavyweight division.

2. Ciryl Gane (12-2-0): Gane’s technical prowess and undefeated record position him as a serious contender for the heavyweight title.

3. Sergei Pavlovich (18-2-0): Pavlovich’s powerful striking and solid record keep him in the mix among the heavyweight elites.

4. Stipe Miocic (20-4-0): The former champion Miocic remains a legend in the heavyweight division, known for his resilience and skill.