There is no exact science in finding stars in MMA.
Undefeated records, distinguished highlight reels and title belts are all winning elements, yet they don’t always guarantee stardom. There is a popularity pressure on fighters, as well as the demands on the sport, to coax audiences into any emotion but indifference.
That translates to significant purses, performances and PPV revenues. Headlines in this, the UFC’s 18th year, tell much about the evolving dynamics of star power in the fastest growing sport in the world.