MMA has a wider universe than just the UFC. You probably know that, but do you really know it?
Yes, the UFC tends the strings for a massive portion of the sport’s athletic talent. But not all of it. They probably would if they could, but all that consumption would mean painful bloating for a company hell bent on a leaner profile.
Bellator, ONE Championship, World Series of Fighting and other shows major and minor, international and local have legitimate fighters on their rosters. Those fighters compete at a high level no matter what banner they’re under, and they deserve to be celebrated.
So, let’s do that right now. Let us identify and rank the 10 best fighters (and some honorable mentions besides) not currently confined to the Octagon. We even have video clips for the lesser-known fighters.
Rankings are based on records, accomplishments and level of competition, with emphasis on recent performance. Free agents who haven’t signed anywhere yet—e.g. Ryan Bader, Lorenz Larkin—are not included.