The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is a vicious playground of unparalleled excitement and jaw-dropping athleticism, captivating MMA fans around the globe. While every division boasts its own array of fierce competitors, it’s the heavyweight division that stands as the epitome of raw power, ferocity, and awe-inspiring battles.
Within the sacred confines of the octagon, history has witnessed an extraordinary assembly of ferocious fighters, each possessing the sheer might and determination to claim the throne of heavyweight champion. These combatants are legends in their own right—intimidating, relentless, and capable of unleashing cataclysmic force with every punch, kick or takedown.
In this Bovada Sportsbook article, we’ll take a look back through UFC history to identify the 10 greatest UFC heavyweights of all-time. From the early days when the octagon was just a fledgling concept to the modern era where it has transformed into a global spectacle, the heavyweight fighters on this list have etched their names in UFC history through their sheer dominance, unparalleled skill and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
#10. Fabricio Werdum
Among the elite ranks of the greatest UFC heavyweights of all-time, Fabricio Werdum stands tall as a submission savant and a true master of the ground game. Werdum’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expertise made him a formidable force in the division for several years. His most iconic moment came in a stunning upset when he submitted the seemingly invincible Fedor Emelianenko, ending the Russian’s legendary winning streak. This triumph solidified his status as one of the most dangerous submission artists in MMA history.
#9. Francis Ngannou
Still active in the UFC, Francis Ngannou has already etched his name as one of the greatest UFC heavyweights of all-time. Known for his bone-crushing knockouts and unparalleled punching power, the Cameroonian powerhouse has left a trail of defeated opponents in his wake. Having already defeated MMA legends like Junior Dos Santos, Cain Velasquez and Alistair Overeem, Ngannou’s rise to prominence in the UFC heavyweight division over the past few years has been nothing short of spectacular.
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#8. Mark Coleman
A pioneering force in the sport of mixed martial arts, Coleman stands tall as a UFC heavyweight legend. With a background in wrestling, “The Hammer” revolutionized the octagon, showcasing the effectiveness of ground-and-pound and dominant grappling techniques. His career achievements include winning the UFC 10 and UFC 11 tournaments, becoming the first-ever UFC heavyweight champion and solidifying his reputation as a true warrior.
#7. Junior Dos Santos
With his dynamic striking, technical prowess and relentless aggression, Junior Dos Santos unquestionably ranks among the greatest UFC heavyweights of all-time. The Brazilian juggernaut was a standout force in the division, bursting onto the MMA scene in 2008 with a shocking knockout of Fabricio Werdum. Dos Santos eventually claimed the heavyweight title in a spectacular performance against Cain Velasquez, and while injuries dimmed his later career, he remains an iconic figure in the UFC heavyweight division.
#6. Cain Velasquez
As an unstoppable force of nature inside the Octagon, Velasquez’s spot on our list of the greatest UFC heavyweights should come as no surprise. Hailing from a wrestling background, the Mexican-American fighter brought a well-rounded skill set and unparalleled work ethic into the cage. His technical mastery and unwavering determination led to him becoming a two-time UFC heavyweight champion. Velasquez’s relentless pace and cardio were unmatched, allowing him to impose his will on opponents and leave a lasting legacy in the UFC.
#5. Alistair Overeem
A Dutch powerhouse with an extensive combat sports background, Alistair Overeem brought a diverse skill set and unparalleled striking prowess into the octagon. Overeem’s striking finesse, combined with his imposing physique, made him a formidable threat to anyone who stood across from him. His ability to seamlessly transition between striking and grappling showcased a well-roundedness rarely seen in the heavyweight division. While he never held the UFC heavyweight title, Overeem’s victories over the likes of Brock Lesnar, Fabricio Werdum, and Junior Dos Santos solidified his status as a top-tier fighter.
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#4. Daniel Cormier
Hailing from a decorated wrestling background, Daniel Cormier seamlessly transitioned into mixed martial arts, showcasing a remarkable blend of grappling and striking prowess. Cormier’s resilience and determination were on full display throughout his storied career; undersized for the division, he defied the odds to become heavyweight champion. Cormier’s ability to strategize and adapt his game plan made him a formidable opponent in any matchup and helped cement his reputation as a true force in the sport.
#3. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Fondly known as “Minotauro”, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is an indelible figure in the history of UFC heavyweights and a true legend of the sport. The Brazilian fighter’s grappling expertise and unparalleled jiu-jitsu skills made him a formidable opponent inside the octagon. Nogueira’s storied career included memorable battles with the likes of Randy Couture, Tim Sylvia, and Fabricio Werdum, showcasing his versatility and toughness. His come-from-behind victories and dramatic submission finishes will forever be etched in MMA lore.
#2. Randy Couture
Famous for his clinch work and grinding fighting style, Randy Couture dismantled opponents with a blend of grappling and dirty boxing. While he transitioned between a number of weight classes during his UFC career, the fighter they called ‘The Natural’ was a three-time UFC heavyweight champion. Couture’s ability to seamlessly transition between fighting styles showcased his versatility and adaptability. As a true pioneer of the heavyweight division, Randy Couture’s legacy in the UFC is eternal, and his impact on mixed martial arts will continue to inspire generations of fighters to come.
#1. Stipe Miocic
As the longest-reigning UFC heavyweight champion in history, Miocic’s accomplishments are awe-inspiring. The American fighter possesses an impressive wrestling background, which he combined with striking finesse to dominate his opponents. He successfully defended his title against a who’s who of the heavyweight division, including Junior Dos Santos, Alistair Overeem, and Francis Ngannou. What sets Miocic apart is his tactical brilliance and adaptability inside the cage. He possesses an uncanny ability to read his opponents and adjust his game plan accordingly, making him a true cerebral fighter and No. 1 on our list of the best UFC heavyweights of all-time.