What determines an all-time great?
Is it merely status and name recognition, or do we actually consider success against quality opposition? Throughout the short history of MMA, fans have been blessed with a multitude of talent that fit the all-time bill.
These fighters put in years of dedication and hard work to attain a legendary status that will leave their names forever etched in MMA history.
As with all rankings, it’s impossible to include every great fighter on the list. This doesn’t mean that their contributions to the sport are any less appreciated. Regardless of whether it’s in a ring or cage, any fighter that steps up in a combative situation to put it all on the line and shed blood deserves the respect of every spectator.
Seeing as this listing only includes the sanctioned era of the sport, legendary pioneers like Royce Gracie don’t make the cut for these particular rankings.
You’ll notice that some UFC Hall of Famers are also absent. The formula for these rankings combine a minimal of performance, name recognition and wins over quality opposition.
The time has come to pay homage to the fighters that helped shape the history of the sport.
Including men and women, here are the MMA all-time rankings.