Biggest UFC Upsets in History
Relive the most unexpected victories in UFC history. From title bouts to fight nights, these shocking moments stunned fans and changed the course of the sport.
Historic Upsets
Matt Serra vs Georges St-Pierre
UFC 69 • April 7, 2007
In one of the biggest upsets in UFC history, Matt Serra knocked out the seemingly invincible Georges St-Pierre in the first round to capture the welterweight title. Serra was a massive underdog, making this victory even more shocking.
Holly Holm vs Ronda Rousey
UFC 193 • November 15, 2015
Holly Holm ended Ronda Rousey's dominant reign with a devastating head kick knockout in the second round. Rousey was undefeated and considered unstoppable, making Holm's victory one of the most shocking in women's MMA history.
Forrest Griffin vs Rampage Jackson
UFC 86 • July 5, 2008
Forrest Griffin outpointed the heavily favored Rampage Jackson to win the light heavyweight title. Griffin's relentless pace and heart overcame Jackson's superior power and athleticism in a true underdog victory.
T.J. Dillashaw vs Renan Barão
UFC 173 • May 24, 2014
T.J. Dillashaw dominated the seemingly unbeatable Renan Barão with superior footwork and striking to capture the bantamweight title. Barão was on a 32-fight unbeaten streak, making this upset even more remarkable.
Miesha Tate vs Holly Holm
UFC 196 • March 5, 2016
Miesha Tate came from behind to submit Holly Holm in the fifth round, capturing the women's bantamweight title. Holm was winning the fight until Tate's dramatic comeback submission victory.
Fighter Profiles
The Underdogs
- Matt Serra: Veteran fighter with heavy hands who capitalized on one perfect moment
- Holly Holm: Boxing champion who used superior striking and game planning
- Forrest Griffin: Heart and determination overcame athletic disadvantages
The Fallen Champions
- Georges St-Pierre: Dominant champion caught off guard by Serra's power
- Ronda Rousey: Undefeated champion who struggled with elite striking
- Renan Barão: Long-reigning champion overwhelmed by Dillashaw's movement
Impact on UFC History
Rankings Shakeups
These upsets completely reshuffled division rankings and created new title contenders overnight.
New Champions
Unexpected victories created new champions and changed the trajectory of entire weight classes.
Legacy Changes
These moments proved that in MMA, anything can happen and no fighter is truly invincible.
These shocking UFC upsets remind us why mixed martial arts is the most unpredictable sport in the world.