When thinking about competitors who lack experience inside the Octagon, prospects come to mind.
However, some of the best fighters in the world have only had a couple of UFC bouts. A select few, such as Eddie Alvarez, have never even competed on the biggest stage in MMA.
While it’s not easy to climb the ranks in smaller promotions, highly ranked UFC newcomers can fight their way to a championship rather quickly. Right now, multiple fighters with less than four UFC appearances are set to compete for titles in the coming months.
Alexis Davis will challenge Ronda Rousey on Saturday. Gilbert Melendez, meanwhile, will coach opposite Anthony Pettis on The Ultimate Fighter 20 before getting a second crack at UFC gold.
Where do Davis and Melendez rank among UFC fighters with three or fewer trips to the Octagon? Here are the top 10 fighters with less than four UFC appearances.