History of UFC Championships
Explore the evolution of UFC championships from the early days to modern title fights. Learn about legendary fighters, historic bouts, and iconic moments in UFC history.
The Early Champions
Founding UFC and First Titleholders
The Ultimate Fighting Championship began in 1993 as a tournament to determine the most effective martial art. Royce Gracie shocked the world by winning the first UFC tournament, proving that technique could overcome size and strength. The early UFC had no weight classes, time limits, or rounds – it was a true test of fighting prowess.
The first official UFC Heavyweight Champion was Mark Coleman at UFC 10 in 1996, marking the beginning of structured championship titles. These early pioneers laid the foundation for what would become the premier mixed martial arts organization in the world.
Notable Fights and Milestones
UFC 1 (1993)
Royce Gracie defeats Gerard Gordeau to win the first UFC tournament
UFC 10 (1996)
Mark Coleman becomes the first official UFC Heavyweight Champion
UFC 12 (1997)
Introduction of weight classes and the first Lightweight Championship
Modern UFC Titles
Weight Class Evolution
The modern UFC features multiple weight divisions, each with its own championship belt. The organization has evolved from a single tournament format to a structured system with regular title defenses and clear rankings.
Men's Divisions
- • Heavyweight (265 lbs)
- • Light Heavyweight (205 lbs)
- • Middleweight (185 lbs)
- • Welterweight (170 lbs)
- • Lightweight (155 lbs)
- • Featherweight (145 lbs)
- • Bantamweight (135 lbs)
- • Flyweight (125 lbs)
Women's Divisions
- • Bantamweight (135 lbs)
- • Flyweight (125 lbs)
- • Strawweight (115 lbs)
Major Championship Events
Championship fights are the pinnacle of UFC competition, often headlining pay-per-view events and drawing millions of viewers worldwide. These events showcase the highest level of mixed martial arts competition.
Did you know? The UFC championship belt is made of gold-plated metal and leather, weighing approximately 5 pounds. Each champion receives a personalized belt with their name engraved.
Legendary Fights & Records
Longest Reigns
Anderson Silva
Middleweight Champion for 2,457 days (16 consecutive title defenses)
Jon Jones
Light Heavyweight Champion with 11 consecutive title defenses
Demetrious Johnson
Flyweight Champion with 11 consecutive title defenses
Memorable Upsets
UFC history is filled with shocking upsets that changed the course of entire divisions. These moments remind us that in MMA, anything can happen when the cage door closes.
Holly Holm vs. Ronda Rousey (UFC 193)
Holm's head kick knockout ended Rousey's dominant reign and undefeated streak
Matt Serra vs. Georges St-Pierre (UFC 69)
Serra's stunning knockout victory over the heavily favored champion
Fabricio Werdum vs. Fedor Emelianenko (Strikeforce)
Werdum's submission ended Fedor's legendary 10-year unbeaten streak