Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has evolved tremendously over the years, with the 21st century marking a period of exceptional talent, dedication, and fierce competition. Some of the most iconic fighters in MMA history have emerged in this century, dominating their respective divisions and setting records that will stand the test of time. This list explores the Top 10 Men’s MMA Fighters of the 21st Century, highlighting their accomplishments, records, and influence on the sport. From legends like Jon Jones and Georges St-Pierre to the dominance of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Demetrious Johnson, here’s a breakdown of the fighters who defined the sport.
Here Are Top 10 Men’s MMA Fighters of the 21st Century:
10. Kamaru Usman
Kamaru Usman is one of the finest MMA fighters to emerge from the welterweight division in the 21st century. Usman’s journey to greatness is a testament to his work ethic and evolution as a fighter. Starting as a wrestler, he transformed into one of the most well-rounded and dominant fighters the UFC has ever seen. Men’s MMA fighters of the 21st century have seldom seen such a seamless progression from one-dimensional wrestler to complete MMA athlete. His reign as the UFC welterweight champion from 2019 to 2022 was nothing short of spectacular, and his ability to neutralize high-level competition made him one of the most feared fighters in the division.
Key Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
UFC Welterweight Champion | Yes, from 2019 to 2022 |
The Ultimate Fighter | Winner, Season 21 |
Longest Win Streak | 15 consecutive wins in UFC welterweight |
First Nigerian-born Champion | Yes |
9. BJ Penn
BJ Penn is widely regarded as one of the most talented fighters in the history of MMA, particularly in the lightweight division. His ability to fight across multiple weight classes and succeed in each one makes him a standout among men’s MMA fighters of the 21st century. Penn was known for his incredible Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills and relentless approach in the octagon. His 2008 victory over Joe Stevenson earned him the UFC lightweight title, making him the first fighter to win titles in multiple weight classes. His fierce fighting spirit continues to inspire MMA athletes globally.
Key Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
UFC Lightweight Champion | Yes, 2008 |
UFC Welterweight Champion | Yes, 2004 |
First UFC Fighter to Win Titles in Multiple Divisions | Yes |
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8. Chuck Liddell
Chuck “The Iceman” Liddell is one of the pioneers who helped shape the UFC into what it is today. Known for his knockout power and aggressive fighting style, Liddell became the UFC light heavyweight champion, and his battles in the octagon remain unforgettable. As one of the most influential men’s MMA fighters of the 21st century, Liddell’s ability to knock out opponents with his strikes made him a legend in the sport. His run in the early UFC days was instrumental in building the company’s brand, especially during his rivalry with Randy Couture.
Key Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
UFC Light Heavyweight Champion | Yes, 2005 |
Most Knockouts in Division | 10 |
Longest Knockout Streak | 7 consecutive knockouts |
7. Randy Couture
Randy Couture’s influence on men’s MMA fighters of the 21st century is immeasurable. Not only was he the first fighter to win titles in multiple weight classes, but his unmatched wrestling and ground control skills set the standard for MMA athletes who came after him. Couture’s notable victories include a heavyweight championship reign at age 45, and his legendary battles with fighters like Tito Ortiz and Chuck Liddell helped bring MMA into the mainstream. His ability to adapt his strategy and continue competing at the highest level is what sets him apart from others in the sport.
Key Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
Three-time UFC Heavyweight Champion | Yes, 2000, 2001, 2007 |
Two-time UFC Light Heavyweight Champion | Yes |
First Multi-Division Champion | Yes |
6. Fedor Emelianenko
Fedor Emelianenko is regarded by many as the greatest mixed martial artist of all time, especially in the heavyweight division. His unbeaten streak of 28 consecutive fights is a record that few will ever come close to matching. In the early 2000s, Emelianenko dominated the Pride Fighting Championship, defeating the best fighters from around the world. Known for his calm demeanor and relentless pursuit of victory, Emelianenko remains one of the most iconic men’s MMA fighters of the 21st century.
Key Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
Pride Heavyweight Champion | Yes |
Unbeaten in 28 Fights | Yes |
Fighter of the Decade | Yes, by various outlets |
5. Khabib Nurmagomedov
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s perfect 29-0 record in MMA is a testament to his dominance in the sport. As the UFC lightweight champion, Khabib ruled the division with relentless pressure and unbeatable wrestling. His approach to fighting, which focused on controlling his opponent on the ground and imposing his will, was unprecedented. Khabib’s decision to retire undefeated after his father’s death further solidified his legendary status among men’s MMA fighters of the 21st century.
Key Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
UFC Lightweight Champion | Yes |
Unbeaten Record (29-0) | Yes |
Most Takedowns in UFC Fight | 21 (vs. Abel Trujillo, 2013) |
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4. Demetrious Johnson
Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson is often regarded as the best flyweight MMA fighter to have ever competed. With a combination of speed, precision, and technical skill, Johnson became the first UFC flyweight champion and defended his title a record 11 times. His well-rounded skill set, which includes exceptional striking, wrestling, and submission skills, made him a dominant force in men’s MMA fighters of the 21st century. Even after his departure from the UFC, Johnson continues to compete at the highest level in One Championship.
Key Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
UFC Flyweight Champion | Yes, inaugural champion (2012-2018) |
Most Title Defenses in UFC | 11 |
Most Wins in UFC Flyweight Title Fights | 12 |
3. Anderson Silva
Anderson Silva is often considered the greatest middleweight MMA fighter of all time. His reign as UFC middleweight champion, which lasted from 2006 to 2013, is legendary for its dominance and variety of finishes. Silva’s striking, especially his precision and timing, made him nearly untouchable in the octagon. His ability to finish fights with spectacular knockouts and submissions solidified his place as one of the men’s MMA fighters of the 21st century. Silva’s legacy is one that transcends the sport, and his influence is still felt today.
Key Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
UFC Middleweight Champion | Yes, from 2006 to 2013 |
Most Consecutive Wins in UFC | 16 |
Most Knockouts in UFC Middleweight | Yes |
2. Georges St-Pierre
Georges St-Pierre is regarded as one of the best MMA fighters in the history of the sport. His reign as UFC welterweight champion, which spanned several years Men’s MMA Fighters of the 21st Century, was marked by his exceptional grappling, striking, and intelligence inside the octagon. St-Pierre was not only a dominant force in the welterweight division but also captured the middleweight title, proving his versatility. His legacy as one of the men’s MMA fighters of the 21st century is unchallenged, with multiple title defenses and victories over top-tier competition.
Key Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
UFC Welterweight Champion | Yes, nine title defenses |
UFC Middleweight Champion | Yes |
Most Wins in UFC Title Fights | 15 |
1. Jon Jones
Jon Jones is widely considered the greatest mixed martial artist of all time. His career achievements are nothing short of extraordinary Men’s MMA Fighters of the 21st Century. From becoming the youngest UFC champion at 23 to defending his light heavyweight title multiple times, Jones has set records that few will ever reach. Known for his unmatched athleticism, reach, and fight IQ, Jones has defeated some of the best fighters in the world, including Daniel Cormier, Lyoto Machida, and Quinton “Rampage” Jackson. His dominance in the octagon and his controversial personal life make him one of the most compelling figures in the history of men’s MMA fighters of the 21st century.
Key Achievements | Details |
|---|---|
UFC Light Heavyweight Champion | Yes, multiple title defenses |
Most Wins in UFC Light Heavyweight | 20 |
Longest Unbeaten Streak in UFC | 19 |
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