The world of mixed martial arts is a battleground where only the most skilled and determined fighters rise to the top. However, even among the greats, there are those who, despite their talent and perseverance, never managed to capture UFC gold.
This listicle delves into the careers of ten remarkable fighters who came so close to holding a championship belt in the UFC, yet never quite reached that pinnacle. These athletes, with their unmatched skills and unwavering determination, have left an indelible mark on the sport.
10. Yoel Romero
Yoel Romero, the “Soldier of God,” came agonizingly close to UFC gold multiple times. Despite his explosive power and Olympic wrestling pedigree, Romero fell short in three title bouts. His controversial split decision loss to Robert Whittaker and narrow defeat to Israel Adesanya left many fans believing he deserved the middleweight crown.
9. Alexander Gustafsson
Alexander Gustafsson, known as “The Mauler,” came closest to dethroning Jon Jones in 2013 in a legendary five-round battle. Despite his impressive 18-8 record and three title shots, the Swedish fighter never captured UFC gold. Gustafsson’s technical striking and wrestling skills made him a formidable contender in the light heavyweight division.
8. Chad Mendes
Chad Mendes, a formidable featherweight, came agonizingly close to UFC gold multiple times. His explosive wrestling and knockout power made him a perennial contender, but losses to José Aldo and Conor McGregor in title fights kept the belt just out of reach. Mendes’ technical skills and heart exemplified championship qualities, making his near-misses particularly poignant.
7. Demian Maia
Demian Maia, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu master, came close to UFC gold twice. His exceptional grappling skills led to a 13-7 record at welterweight, including impressive wins over Carlos Condit and Ben Askren. Despite falling short in title bouts against Anderson Silva and Tyron Woodley, Maia’s submission prowess and 14 UFC wins by submission solidify his legacy as one of the best grapplers in MMA history.
6. Donald Cerrone
Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone holds multiple UFC records, including most wins (23) and most finishes (16). Despite his impressive career, Cerrone never captured UFC gold. His exciting fighting style and willingness to take on anyone made him a fan favorite, but he fell short in his lone title shot against Rafael dos Anjos in 2015.
5. Urijah Faber
“The California Kid” dominated the WEC featherweight division, defending his title five times. In the UFC, Faber had four bantamweight title shots but fell short each time. His exciting fighting style and charisma made him a fan favorite, leaving many to wonder what could have been if he had captured UFC gold.
4. Joseph Benavidez
Joseph Benavidez, a dominant force in the UFC’s flyweight division, fought for the title four times but never clinched the championship. With 28 wins and only 8 losses, Benavidez’s impressive record includes victories over notable opponents like Henry Cejudo and Jussier Formiga. His technical skills and relentless fighting style made him a perennial contender.
3. Kenny Florian
Kenny Florian competed for UFC titles in three weight classes but fell short each time. Known for his technical skills and fight IQ, Florian’s versatility and finishing ability made him a perennial contender. Despite never claiming gold, his impact on the sport as both a fighter and commentator is undeniable.
2. Dan Henderson
Dan Henderson, a legendary MMA fighter, never clinched a UFC title despite his illustrious career. He won championships in Pride and Strikeforce, and came close in the UFC, losing a split decision to Quinton Jackson for the light heavyweight belt. Henderson’s powerful right hand and Olympic wrestling background made him a formidable opponent throughout his career.
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1. Chael Sonnen
Chael Sonnen came agonizingly close to UFC gold, dominating Anderson Silva for nearly five rounds before a last-minute submission loss. His wrestling prowess, promotional skills, and memorable fights against Silva and Jon Jones cemented his legacy as one of the best to never win a UFC title.
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