1 Source: Wikimedia Commons.
The sport of mixed martial arts (MMA) has seen a flood of incredible skill over the past ten years — and these guys have been beating people senseless inside the cage. The largest and meanest of all MMA fighters who have left a long-lasting impression on the sport within the last decade are covered in this comprehensive document.
1. Conor McGregor: The Notorious One
In the last ten years or so, “the Notorious” Conor McGregor is arguably the biggest name in MMA! The impact of The Octagon’s iconic figure transcends the arena due to his charisma and unparalleled fighting skills. Of particular note, he was the first fighter ever in UFC history to own titles spanning two different weights at a time.
He ranks in the top for a reason. His fighting style can counter any opponent. In fact, according to Bovada sportsbook, McGregor is currently favored against all types of opponents: his much-anticipated match against True Geordie is set at -1200 in favor of the Notorious vs. True Geordie’s +600!
McGregor’s strong hitting and magnetic personality made him a global sports champion. In spite of the numerous hurdles that he has faced in his reign, he is still arguably the most important contributor towards the development of MMA.
2. Khabib Nurmagomedov: The Eagle
The story of the past decade for MMA is that of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s domination of the lightweight division. Having won all his fights, “The Eagle” left as one of the best fighters in boxing history – with a perfect 29-0 record.
Unmatched in their fervor, Khabib’s wrestling matches and domination of the ground were a testament to his undeniable determination. Aside from being a skillful fighter, Khabib’s stoicism and sportsmanship has helped cement his name in MMA history, which will last for many more years to come.
Since his UFC retirement, he’s turned down giant paydays, cementing him as a legend not just when fighting but outside the arena too.
3. Jon Jones: Bones
The legendary light heavyweight is never to miss his name – Bones. The result of his mixed martial arts approach as pound-for-pound is excellent. This enhances Jones’ legacy because of all the hurdles he overcame within and outside the cage.
Over the course of time, Jones proved himself dominating as one of the most powerful champions by defeating an intimidating lineup and remains among the great mystery kings of MMA.
4. Amanda Nunes: The Lioness
Women’s MMA is led by Amanda “Lioness” Nunes who is among the most formidable fighters. Nunes has held titles with both bantam and the featherweight division proving she is well-rounded and does have the ability to knock people out.
She has been breaking grounds in women’s MMA by defeating several prominent athletes, among them being notable sportsmen. Smoothly moving amongst weights and performance consistency make Nunes one of the central characters in the development of women’s MMA. She has definitely made her mark on the sport and her status as a two division champion is indelible.
Will the Lioness be back? Well, her thoughts were recently made clear in a Sports Illustrated interview.
5. Israel Adesanya: The Last Stylebender
“The Last Stylebender” Israel Adesanya has become an eye-catching phenomenon of the middleweight division. Precision striking skills, high defense capabilities, as well as excellent flow characterizes his style, which is considered quite individual among MMA fighters. Adesanya’s path takes him through an attempt at the vacant interim title, where he demonstrates his superior technique.
Being a charismatic and dynamic fighter as well as his impact on modern mixed martial arts makes him a major figure for the advancement of modern mixed martial arts. Plus, his profile is one of the strongest in MMA.
6. Stipe Miocic: The Firefighter Champion
Stipe Miocic is now well known as the “Firefighter Champion”, having become one of the most successful heavyweights in MMA history. Although a firefighter, Miocic’s durability and striking acumen have turned him into a real threat in the heavyweight ranks.
Notably though, the trilogy with Daniel Cormier made him legendary champion. Maintaining his record in Miocic’s ability to withstand storms and hit hard speaks volumes about him.
7. Valentina Shevchenko: Bullet
In the women’s flyweight division, Valentina Shevchenko, nicknamed “Bullet” remains a fierce fighter. Shevchenko’s precision striking and well-rounded arsenal have helped her defend her belt several times. The way she defeated leading contenders and dictated fights using a well-planned strategy shows her supremacy in the octagon.
Shevchenko’s legacy is characterized by her excellence in technical expertise that has made her the respected and one of the most celebrated female fighters who ever lived.
Wrapping Up
The last decade has witnessed a remarkable influx of talent in MMA, with fighters like Conor McGregor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Amanda Nunes leaving an enduring impact on the sport. As we reflect on the past ten years, these fighters stand out as the biggest and baddest, showcasing the evolution and excitement that define modern-day mixed martial arts.