Top 10 Legendary UFC Champions Who Raised the Belt

The UFC Championship Belt is the crown jewel of mixed martial arts. For fighters, it’s not just a trophy, it’s proof that they are the best in the world. Across three decades of UFC history, some champions didn’t just win belts, they defined eras, drew millions of fans, and created unforgettable Octagon moments.

Here are the Top 10 Legendary UFC Champions Who Raised the Belt, and why their reigns still matter today.

1. Royce Gracie – The Submission Pioneer

When UFC debuted in 1993, nobody expected a skinny jiu-jitsu fighter to dominate giants. Yet Royce Gracie shocked the world by winning UFC 1, UFC 2, and UFC 4 using Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu submissions. His victories proved that skill beats size and laid the foundation for modern MMA.

2. Randy Couture – Captain America of UFC

Randy Couture was one of the first stars to hold titles in two divisions: heavyweight and light heavyweight. He was famous for his relentless wrestling, clinch fighting, and ability to come back after setbacks. Couture’s rivalries with Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz made him a household name.

3. Chuck Liddell – The Knockout King of Light Heavyweight

The Iceman’s mohawk, his lethal right hand, and his title reign in the early 2000s defined UFC’s boom period. Chuck Liddell defended his light heavyweight championship against names like Tito Ortiz and Randy Couture, bringing UFC into mainstream popularity on pay-per-view.

4. Anderson Silva – The Spider Who Redefined Dominance

Anderson Silva didn’t just win fights, he made opponents look helpless. His 2,457-day reign as middleweight champion included 10 title defenses, victories over Vitor Belfort, Chael Sonnen, and Rich Franklin, and highlight-reel knockouts that cemented him as one of the greatest strikers in UFC history.

5. Georges St-Pierre – The Perfect Martial Artist

GSP was the complete package: karate base, elite wrestling, flawless strategy, and unmatched discipline. His welterweight reign included wins over BJ Penn, Matt Hughes, Nick Diaz, and Carlos Condit. Later, he returned from retirement to win the UFC Middleweight Championship, making him one of the greatest two-division champions.

6. Jon Jones – The Youngest Champion in UFC History

At just 23, Jon Jones won the light heavyweight title by defeating Shogun Rua. His dominance included wins over Daniel Cormier, Rashad Evans, Rampage Jackson, and Lyoto Machida. Jones is now rewriting history as UFC heavyweight champion, showing his adaptability across weight classes.

7. Khabib Nurmagomedov – The Eagle Who Never Fell

Khabib’s story is one of perfection. He retired undefeated at 29-0, defending his lightweight title against Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje. Known for his relentless wrestling and sambo, Khabib never lost a round in his prime and left the sport on top, a feat almost unheard of.

8. Conor McGregor – The Double Champ Era

No UFC fighter has had the cultural impact of Conor McGregor. His knockout of José Aldo in 13 seconds won him the featherweight title, and months later he captured the lightweight belt, becoming the first ever simultaneous two-division UFC champion. Love him or hate him, McGregor raised UFC into global superstardom.

9. Kamaru Usman – The Nigerian Nightmare’s Iron Grip

Kamaru Usman defended the welterweight title five times, defeating Colby Covington twice, Jorge Masvidal, and Gilbert Burns. His wrestling base evolved into dangerous knockout power, making him one of the most dominant welterweights in UFC history before his eventual dethroning.

10. Daniel Cormier – The Champ Champ of Heart and Power

DC proved perseverance beats setbacks. Despite losses to Jon Jones, he captured the light heavyweight and heavyweight titles, defeating legends like Stipe Miocic, Derrick Lewis, and Anthony Johnson. His belt-raising moments showed true grit and made him one of UFC’s most respected champions.

Own the Legacy – Shop UFC Replica Belts in the USA

The same belts raised by legends are available as replicas for fans. Browse our UFC Legacy Championship Replica Belt, UFC BMF Replica Belt, and UFC Pride Replica Belt at TheChampions.biz. Every order ships free across the USA, making it easier than ever to bring a piece of UFC history home.

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