In 2005, the world of mixed martial arts changed forever. Through The Ultimate Fighter competition, fans got an up-close look at the lives of professional fighters in a way that they never had. When it was time for the show’s finale, Forrest Griffin and Stephan Bonnar captivated the sporting world through their epic battle.
Over the course of the last eight years, the UFC has grown in ways that Dana White could never have dreamed. Their schedule of cards jumped from 10 events per year to an astounding 33, four new divisions have been introduced and TUF runs international versions concurrent with it’s American counterpart.
During that time, fans have been treated to some of the most shocking moments that our sport has ever known. Some will define the sport while others will simply be remembered by their violent nature.
Here is a look at MMA‘s five most jaw-dropping moments since Griffin vs. Bonnar I.