The greatest fighters in UFC history have left a mark on the sport that continues to inspire new generations of athletes. These champions broke records, dominated divisions, and showcased unmatched talent and determination. From flyweights to heavyweights, the greatest fighters in UFC history have shown excellence inside the Octagon.
List of 5 Greatest Fighters in UFC History
5. Demetrious Johnson
Demetrious Johnson, often called “Mighty Mouse,” is one of the greatest fighters in UFC history due to his technical brilliance, speed, and consistency. He became the first-ever UFC Flyweight Champion and defended the title 11 times a record in that division. Known for his fast movement and perfectly timed takedowns, Johnson was not just a strong fighter but a master strategist.
He made history by being the only UFC athlete to score 10 or more takedowns in three different bouts. Johnson dominated the 125-pound division until 2018, after which he moved to ONE Championship, where he also won the flyweight title. His career was filled with highlights that prove why he belongs among the greatest fighters in UFC history. Johnson officially announced his retirement on September 6, 2024, ending an iconic journey.
| Total Fights | 30 |
| Wins | 25 |
| Losses | 4 |
| Draws | 1 |
| Wins by Knockout | 5 |
| Wins by Submission | 8 |
| Wins by Decision | 12 |
| Losses by Knockout | 1 |
| Losses by Submission | 0 |
| Losses by Decision | 3 |
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4. Khabib Nurmagomedov
Khabib Nurmagomedov ranks among the greatest fighters in UFC history due to his unmatched dominance and undefeated record of 29-0. Known as “The Eagle,” Khabib controlled his opponents with world-class wrestling and incredible strength. His most famous fight was against Conor McGregor at UFC 229, which became the highest-selling event in UFC’s history.
Khabib retired in 2021 after defeating Justin Gaethje, keeping a promise to his late father. He never lost a round in his prime and completely shut down elite competition. Even after retirement, his influence in MMA continues, as he now trains top fighters like Islam Makhachev. His perfect career is one of the reasons he is always mentioned when we talk about the greatest fighters in UFC history.
| Total Fights | 29 |
| Wins | 29 |
| Losses | 0 |
| Wins by Knockout | 8 |
| Wins by Submission | 11 |
| Wins by Decision | 10 |
3. Georges St-Pierre
Georges St-Pierre (GSP) is one of the most respected and accomplished athletes among the greatest fighters in UFC history. He dominated the welterweight division and later returned from retirement to win the middleweight title, becoming a two-division champion. GSP’s style combined sharp striking with dominant wrestling, making him a nightmare for any opponent.
He held a 13-fight win streak and defended his welterweight title nine times. GSP lost only twice in his career and avenged both losses. His ability to evolve and adapt over the years places him firmly among the greatest fighters in UFC history. He officially retired in 2019 and was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame.
| Total Fights | 28 |
| Wins | 26 |
| Losses | 2 |
| Wins by Knockout | 8 |
| Wins by Submission | 6 |
| Wins by Decision | 12 |
| Losses by Knockout | 1 |
| Losses by Submission | 1 |
2. Anderson Silva
Anderson Silva, nicknamed “The Spider,” is regarded as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history because of his long reign and unmatched striking skills. He held the UFC Middleweight Championship for 2,457 days—the longest title reign in UFC history. Silva went on a 16-fight win streak and defended his title 10 times, defeating elite contenders with ease and style.
Silva’s movement, timing, and creativity in the Octagon made him nearly untouchable during his prime. Despite losing several matches toward the end of his career, his earlier dominance secured his status among the greatest fighters in UFC history. He was later honored as a two-time UFC Hall of Famer and remains a legend in the sport.
| Total Fights | 46 |
| Wins | 34 |
| Losses | 11 |
| Wins by Knockout | 23 |
| Wins by Submission | 3 |
| Wins by Decision | 8 |
| Losses by Knockout | 4 |
| Losses by Submission | 2 |
| Losses by Decision | 4 |
| Losses by Disqualification | 1 |
| No Contests | 1 |
1. Jon Jones
At number one on the list of the greatest fighters in UFC history, we have Jon “Bones” Jones. Considered by many as the most complete fighter ever, Jones became the youngest UFC champion at 23. He ruled the light heavyweight division from 2011 to 2015, and again from 2018 to 2020. His skills include devastating elbows, strategic striking, strong wrestling, and elite-level fight IQ.
Jones holds the record for most title defenses at light heavyweight and has defeated several former champions. In 2023, he moved up to the heavyweight division and won the title, proving his greatness across multiple weight classes. He retired in June 2025 after defeating Stipe Miocic in dominant fashion, ending a career that will forever be remembered when we speak of the greatest fighters in UFC history.
| Total Fights | 30 |
| Wins | 28 |
| Losses | 1 |
| Wins by Knockout | 11 |
| Wins by Submission | 7 |
| Wins by Decision | 10 |
| Losses by Disqualification | 1 |
| No Contests | 1 |