On Saturday, Al Iaquinta will look to take another step forward in the lightweight division when he meets Jorge Masvidal on the UFC Fight Night 63 main card.
Although New York has not legalized pro MMA competition within its borders, the state is still home to some of the best in the sport. Iaquinta represents that elite group of fighters who presently call New York home or did so at some point in the past.
Unfortunately, a UFC lawsuit against the prohibition of MMA in New York was dismissed last month, according to MMA Junkie. However, there is more hope than ever that legislation will be changed now that former New York State Assembly speaker Sheldon Silver has resigned.
With New York constantly in MMA headlines as the UFC looks to take the show to Madison Square Garden, here are the five best fighters from the state who are currently under contract with the promotion.