The UFC has come a long way since its inception in 1993. First billed as a “no-holds barred” competition to decide the age-old question of which fighting style reigned supreme, now the sport boasts legions of loyal fans, hundreds of millions of dollars in annual revenue and a long-term network television deal.
The road wasn’t always smooth. There were plenty of bumps, detours and roadblocks. But the wise business decisions made by the current owners, Zuffa, and most significantly, the superb battles put on by the fighters, have produced a mixed martial arts brand that has stood the test of time and prospered.
The future is bright indeed, and these seven fights are the reason why.