Who is the Greatest of All Time in Mixed Martial Arts?

Introduction:

Each competitive sport has crowned its GOAT (greatest of all time); American football has Tom Brady, Tennis has Rafael Nadal, basketball has Michael Jordan and Cricket has Sachin Tendulkar. Then we have the sports which have a multitude of GOATs, such as football where Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Pele have been attributed with this prestigious status. When the conversation steers into this direction, it can become competitive, loyal advocates begin endless debates where no clear victor is ever designated. There is a sole premise for this outcome though, subjectivity. What constitutes this GOAT status for one supporter may not fit the criteria for another, even when all objective accolades and accomplishments have been presented.

Hence, the purpose of this post is to address the question; Who is the GOAT in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)? In this post I will initiate the topic by introducing the sport, then introducing the contestants I believe fall into this conversation, each of their accomplishments, their dominance in their respective weight classes, impact on the sport, what key attribute made them unique in comparison to their competitors, controversies which may have tainted their legacies to then summarise with a conclusion based on the objective accolades of each fighter mentioned in this debate. A key disclaimer I must make mention of in this introduction; the list of contenders I have picked for this post is based solely upon my subjective opinion. If I have missed out a key competitor you believe should have made it on my list, then please leave a comment stating your argument. I would be more than intrigued to engage with it. If you have a difference of opinion, that is absolutely fine, in fact I would encourage it as it brings a more varied and engaging conversation to the table, regarding this topic.

Rules:

· Fighters can use a variety of striking and grappling techniques, including punches, kicks, knee strikes, elbows, takedowns, and submissions.

· Striking to the head, body, and legs is allowed when standing or on the ground.

· Grappling and submissions are allowed, including chokes and joint locks.

· Fighters cannot use eye gouging, biting, striking the back of the head, or striking the groin area.

· Fighters must wear approved gloves and other protective gear.

· Matches consist of three to five rounds, each lasting five minutes (championship fights are five rounds).

Scoring:

· A panel of three judges scores the fight based on effective striking, grappling, aggression, and octagon control.

· Each round is scored independently, and the fighter who wins the round gets 10 points, while the opponent gets 9 or fewer points, depending on the judge’s assessment.

· If a round is deemed a draw, both fighters receive 10 points.

· The winner of the match is determined by the overall score at the end of the designated rounds.

· If a match ends in a draw, it can result in a majority draw, a split draw, or a unanimous draw, depending on the judges’ scores.

It’s important to note that while these are the basic rules and scoring guidelines, the actual implementation may vary slightly depending on the specific jurisdiction and athletic commission overseeing the event. The main goal of the scoring system is to determine the winner based on effective and dominant performance throughout the fight.

What is Mixed Martial Arts?

It really is as simple as its name suggests; a sport consisting of a hybrid of hand-to-hand combat disciplines which fighters merge together to form the most well-rounded fighting style. These fighting styles are derived from many different fighting styles, from all across the globe; American and Russian freestyle wrestling, Dutch kickboxing, Roman-Greco wrestling, Brazilian Jiujitsu, Wushu Sanda (Chinese kickboxing) etc. Each promotion which is licensed to hold MMA contests, from Pride to Strikeforce to the UFC, all have presented different rule sets as to what techniques are permissible in a match. To make this post easier to understand I will be utilising the rules of the UFC and its scoring system. You may notice one of the entries on this list never competed in the UFC and the same of the other competitors competed in promotions before they gained UFC contracts. I will be utilising scoring systems from those promotions exclusively for those specific matches that they had.

A notable point to make here; most of the fighters on this list have made it here due to their ability to be well rounded fighters, they were able to strike on the feet (presented high level striking), were able to wrestle or grapple (began their careers with a wrestling base or implemented one as their careers went on) and also presented a reliable ground game (were able to gain ground control over their opponent or were able to pull off submissions to win the contest). As always, there are exceptions to this. We have pure athletes to their respective disciplines, Damien Maia being a prime example, as his Jiujitsu is literally perfect and has numerous accolades to reinforce this statement. He had to implement striking into his fighting style as his career went on and he has developed on it. Although he is an incredible martial artist, many would regard him as one-dimensional due to his emphasis on Brazilian Jiujitsu.

Georges ‘Rush’ St Pierre (26 – 2):

Bio:

If you’re an avid MMA fan the abbreviation GSP should resonate strongly with you. Hailing from Saint-Isidore, Quebec, he began his path in martial arts at the age of 7. He took up Kyokushin Karate to defend himself against a bully that would physically assault him on the school bus, on numerous occasions. It was this negative motivator which enabled him to achieve a black belt in this chosen discipline by the age of 12. The Canadian icon supported himself and the initial stages of his MMA career as a garbage collector, going onto compete in his first ever mixed martial arts bout at the age of 20.

Fighting style:

As mentioned, GSP began his path to MMA via a striking heavy background, through karate. It was when he came under the tutelage of Firas Zahabi at TriStar gym, he began to realise the importance of a more varied skillset within the fight game. By incorporating elements of freestyle and Roman-Greco wrestling into his fighting style, GSP was able to dictate where the fight took place. On the feet, Rush was able to utilise his karate background, keeping his opponent at bay with his lead jab and swift body kicks. As soon as George saw an optimum opening where he was able to change the pace of the fight to his advantage, also changing the momentum of the fight. On the ground GSP was able to exert his control in the top position, even whilst remaining in the guard of his opponent, whilst raining down heavy ground and pound. It was this ground and pound which enabled George to then seek out submissions, which is how he submitted Michael Bisping via a rear-naked choke in the 3rd round, to obtain the Middleweight Championship. Another point to mention, some of Georges toughest fights, noted by himself, were against those opponents who were able to neutralise his wrestling prowess. A notable example of this would be his bout against Johny Hendricks, who in his own right has substantial accolades dating back to his collegiate wrestling career. By forging this well-rounded fighting style, taking in all aspects of the fight game, GSP is credited to being one of, if the not the best Welterweight in the world.

Statistics from the octagon:

Category	Quantity
Knockouts/Technical Knockouts wins.	8
Submission wins.	6
Takedown secured.	90 (Most takedowns achieved by any fighter)
Significant strikes landed.	1131
Significant strikes absorbed.	593
Welterweight title defences.	9

Upon analysis of these statistics these are the conclusions which can be drawn from Georges’ MMA career:

1. Effective Takedowns: The high number of takedowns secured (90) indicates St-Pierre’s exceptional wrestling skills. His ability to control fights on the ground and dictate the pace was a defining aspect of his dominance.

2. Significant Strikes: The significant strikes landed (1131) highlight his ability to effectively strike while standing. His precision and technique contributed to his success in the striking department.

3. Defensive Acumen: St-Pierre’s lower number of significant strikes absorbed (593) underscores his defensive skills, demonstrating his ability to evade opponent strikes and minimise damage.

4. Influence on Welterweight Division: St-Pierre’s success may have influenced the training and fighting styles of other welterweight fighters, as he set a high standard for skill diversity and overall excellence.

5. Legacy of Dominance: St-Pierre’s statistics contribute to his legacy as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history. His balanced approach and impressive records serve as a benchmark for fighters aspiring to reach the pinnacle of the sport.

6. Versatility: St-Pierre’s balanced skill set is evident from his relatively equal number of KO/TKO and submission wins. This showcases his ability to excel both in striking and grappling, making him a versatile fighter capable of adapting to various opponents.

7. Consistent Title Defences: With a total of 9 title defences, St-Pierre’s legacy as a dominant champion is firmly established. This places him among the elite UFC champions who successfully defended their titles multiple times.

8. Well-Rounded Champion: St-Pierre’s statistics reflect his well-rounded approach to fighting, combining striking, grappling, and takedowns effectively. This sets him apart as a complete fighter who excelled in various aspects of MMA.

Counterarguments:

One of the biggest arguments against GSP being crowned the GOAT of MMA is the fact that he has suffered definitive and convincing losses during his run at the 170lb title. Georges’ first loss came by way of submission via armbar from renowned wrestler Matt Hughes in the 1st round of their bout. Rush’s second loss came by way to technical knockout by Brazilian Jiu Jitsu blackbelt Matt Serra, again in the first round. With both of GSPs losses coming to fighters named Matt, some critics would argue, losses, as common as they are removing you from the conversation of GOAT status. A secondary argument which may discredit Georges claim of GOAT status in MMA would be him stepping away from the sport in his prime in 2013 after his highly controversial split decision win against Johny Hendricks. By halting his title reign, it led many analysts to believe the competition in the Welterweight division was becoming too demanding for George for him to continue defending the title. Moreover, many fans were beginning to speculate that Rush retired to avoid the super fight Dana and the UFC were campaigning for between then Welterweight champion and then Middleweight champion; Anderson ‘The Spider’ Silva. Hence, these counterarguments may hinder GSPs claim as they MMA GOAT.

Summary:

Georges St-Pierre (GSP) undeniably remains a strong contender for the title of MMA GOAT despite certain counterarguments. GSP’s journey through karate laid the foundation for his well-rounded fighting style, an amalgamation of striking and wrestling skills that enabled him to dictate the pace and position of fights. His ability to transition seamlessly between striking and grappling showcased his adaptability and prowess.

What sets GSP apart is his commitment to evolution. He absorbed elements of wrestling, freestyle, and Roman-Greco into his arsenal under Firas Zahabi’s guidance. This versatility allowed him to keep opponents at bay with his striking while seamlessly transitioning to ground control through takedowns and ground and pound. His mastery of both striking and grappling made him a true force to be reckoned with.

While the counterarguments highlight his losses, it’s important to note that GSP’s character shines through adversity. He avenged his 2 losses with comprehensive victories against both Matts, demonstrating growth and resilience. His control time on the ground speaks volumes about his dominance in fights, further bolstering his claim to greatness.

Beyond his fighting prowess, GSP’s character resonates with fans. His role-model persona, respectful conduct toward opponents and fans, and his unwavering dedication to sportsmanship are rare and admirable traits. In addition to this, Rush never tested positive under the USADA programme in the 58 tests for any PEDs or other banned substances he underwent, touting his professionalism as clean fighter. These qualities elevate him not just as a fighter but as a symbol of sportsmanship in MMA.

Despite stepping away from the sport during his prime, GSP’s return and subsequent achievements showcase his enduring excellence. His ability to maintain relevance and success upon his comeback is a testament to his skill, adaptability, and determination.

To summarise, GSP’s enduring influence is a result of his dynamic fighting style, his ability to evolve, and his remarkable character. Upon avenging his loss to Matt Serra and reclaiming the 170lb championship, George went onto defend his Welterweight title 9 times over the course of 6 years. His dominance on the ground, his redemption from losses, and his embodiment of sportsmanship are emblematic of his status as a GOAT candidate. Whether in the octagon or out, GSP’s impact on MMA and his embodiment of its core values make him a remarkable and deserving contender for the title of MMA GOAT.

Demetrious ‘Might Mouse’ Johnson (25 – 4):

Bio:

Born in Kentucky in 1986, DJ ‘Mighty Mouse’, also known as Demetrious Johnson, found his true home in Parkland, Washington, where his remarkable journey began. Raised by his determined and can-do attitude mother, Johnson’s upbringing was a testament to strength and resilience. Little did he and his siblings realise that their mother, despite being deaf, was a beacon of unwavering support and guidance. Life, however, had its share of challenges. Johnson faced turbulence, including difficulties stemming from his stepfather’s military background. Remarkably, Johnson doesn’t hold onto resentment; instead, he shapes his character by drawing from his experiences. Reflecting on his formative years, Johnson shares, “I enjoyed my childhood. I didn’t know anything else; that was the life we had.” It’s this outlook that speaks volumes about his resilience and positivity. Academic success accompanied Johnson’s journey through school. He forged strong bonds with his siblings – an older sister and a younger brother – serving as each other’s pillars of strength in the face of hardships. Sports were Johnson’s calling, a passion ignited early. “I was always into sports,” he reminisces. “I started playing football, then tried my hand at track and cross country, but wrestling was where I found my stride. The season may have been short, but the lessons lasted a lifetime.” Guiding this path of determination was his mother, a firm believer in her children’s potential. “She raised her children well,” Johnson affirms. “She was a very happy, very kind, very sweet woman.” Beyond the octagon, Mighty Mouse’s journey has been sculpted by his upbringing, hardships, and unbreakable bonds. From humble beginnings, he’s emerged as a true role model, embodying strength, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of a champion.

Fighting style:

DJ first was first introduced to combat sports through freestyle wrestling at Washington High School. His athleticism was remarkable as he also excelled at track and cross country, touting to his stamina – a mandatory attribute needed in wrestling. Even though Demetrious was able to achieve a scholarship for wrestling, he refused to leave his family. DJ began his MMA career in 2007 at the age of 21, winning was 1st fight by knockout within the 1st round. When his talent was eventually noticed by the UFC, he made his debut in 2011 against Norifumi Yamamoto, winning the fight via a unanimous decision. Demetrious’ initial fights within the organisation were taken with some uncertainty. This was cemented by his unanimous decision loss to Dominic Cruz at UFC Live 6. This all changed, however when he defeated Joseph Benavidez via unanimous decision in 2012 and went on to successfully defend his flyweight title 11 times. Till this day, this record is yet to be broken by any MMA organisation. This is attributed to Mighty Mouse’s versatile fighting style. DJ’s fighting style has every aspect of the fight game covered; he utilises his wrestling base to control where the fight takes place, and he also has implemented submission wrestling into his style to set up one of the most spectacular submissions of all time – the Wizbar: a supplex which is then converted into an armbar. Demetrious was able to pull this submission off in 11th title defence of the 125-pound title against Ray Borg. Moving onto his striking, since DJ started off with his MMA path with a base in freestyle wrestling, it allowed him to spend more time improving and innovating on his striking. This became evident in his win against Joseph Benavidez in their rematch, with DJ finishing their fight in the first round with a knockout. By merging and improving on his striking and then implementing it with his wrestling, DJ became the most well-rounded flyweight in UFC and MMA history, making a grasp for the claim of GOAT status. This is demonstrated by DJ becoming the undisputed UFC flyweight champion and the current inaugural ONE FC flyweight champion.

Statistics from the octagon:

Category	Quantity
Knockouts/Technical Knockouts wins.	5
Submission wins.	8
Takedown secured.	34
Significant strikes landed.	1362
Significant strikes absorbed.	738
Flyweight title defences.	11

(As of writing this article, Demetrious is still active and competing in MMA, these statistics are subject to change).

Upon analysis of these statistics these are the conclusions which can be be drawn from Demetrious’ MMA career so far, as he is still actively competing. 

· Versatility: Johnson’s combination of submission wins (8) and knockout/technical knockout wins (5) showcases his versatility as a fighter. This well-rounded skill set allowed him to excel in various aspects of the sport, making him a complete fighter.

· Takedown Mastery: Johnson’s ability to secure 34 takedowns reflects his exceptional wrestling skills. This played a crucial role in his success as he could dictate the fight’s location, either standing or on the ground.

· Offensive Striking: The significant strikes landed (1,362) indicate his ability to land significant strikes effectively. This demonstrates his striking accuracy and ability to control fights while standing.

· Defensive Prowess: With 738 significant strikes absorbed, Johnson exhibited strong defensive skills. His ability to minimise damage while engaging in striking exchanges is a testament to his defensive acumen.

· Title Defence Dominance: Johnson’s 11 consecutive flyweight title defence’s are a record in the UFC. This impressive streak showcases his consistency, dominance, and ability to fend off top contenders in his weight class.

· Complete Champion: Johnson’s statistics highlight his status as a complete champion. His ability to win via strikes, submissions, and takedowns, combined with his remarkable title defence record, positions him as one of the most well-rounded champions in MMA history.

· Endurance and Durability: His ability to absorb fewer significant strikes compared to the number he landed suggests his durability and ability to maintain a high pace throughout his fights.

· Legacy in the Flyweight Division: Johnson’s dominance in the 125lb division and his record-breaking title defences set a high standard for future fighters in the flyweight division. His achievements are likely to influence the division for years to come.

Counterarguments:

A similar counterargument is presented for DJ as it was for GSP. That being that he has lost in the past, 4 losses in total to date; Brad Pickett (by unanimous decision), Dominick Cruz (by unanimous decision) Henry Cejudo (by split decision) and Adriano Moraes (by knockout via a knee in the 2nd round). The losses to Dominick Cruz and Henry Cejudo were never avenged. Losses will always add asterisks to a fighter claiming to be a GOAT of any sport, specifically MMA. Furthermore, Demetrious refused to move up to Bantamweight in 2018 to challenge then title holder, TJ Dillashaw. For many fans and for the promotion, this was Mighty Mouse’s chance to prove himself against another champion, a competitor of his caliber as he had run through the entire flyweight division by this point. Now, comparing DJ’s level of competition to the champions of the other divisions in the UFC, they were facing much tougher contenders for the title compared to Demetrious, according to many analysts. Moreover, even though DJ has consecutively and abundantly defended his titles, since the majority of his wins have come by decision, many see his lacklustre performances and discredit his claim at the GOAT status.

Summary:

Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson stands as a compelling contender in the discourse of MMA’s greatest of all time, notwithstanding certain counterarguments. Johnson’s journey, rooted in freestyle wrestling, laid the groundwork for a fighting style that redefined the flyweight division. His athleticism, showcased in track and cross country, complemented his stamina, a crucial asset in the demanding world of wrestling.

What distinguishes Mighty Mouse is his adaptability. From a debut knockout in the first round to a record-breaking 11 consecutive flyweight title defences, Johnson’s journey is marked by versatility. The “Wizbar,” a suplex seamlessly converted into an armbar, exemplifies his inventive approach to submissions.

Statistics validate Johnson’s claim to greatness. His combination of knockout and submission wins demonstrates a well-rounded skill set. With 34 takedowns, 1,362 significant strikes landed, and 738 absorbed, Johnson’s stats portray a fighter who controls the fight’s narrative. His 11 title defenses underscore his consistency, dominance, and ability to thwart top contenders in his weight class.

Counterarguments, however, point to the four losses, including those unavenged, and his refusal to move up in weight in 2018. Some critics argue that Johnson’s level of competition, particularly in the flyweight division, doesn’t match the challenges faced by champions in other weight classes.

In summary, Demetrious Johnson’s legacy is crafted through innovation, versatility, and statistical excellence. His dominance in the 125lb division, coupled with inventive submissions and a complete fighting style, positions him as a potent contender in the MMA GOAT conversation. The debates around losses and weight class choices add complexity to his legacy, but Mighty Mouse’s impact on the sport remains undeniably profound.

Fedor ‘The Last Emperor’ Emelianenko (40 – 7 – 1):

Bio:

It takes an abudant amount of prestigious accolades to earn moniker of The Last Emperor; from multiple Sambo Championships, Judo Championships to being the heavyweight champion in many different promotions, Fedor resonated that prestige throughout his MMA career. Fedor’s origins initially began in the Luhansk region of the former Soviet Republic (modern day Ukraine) with his family moving to St. Oskol Belgorod region in modern day Russia, when he was two years old. It self defence which primarily garnered Fedor’s interest into combat sports, mainly taking on disciplines which were heavily embedded within Russian culture and society; Freestyle wrestling, Sambo and Judo. His journey into the world of combat sports began under the guidance of Gavrilov V.I. In the subsequent year, he joined a sport group, continuing his training under Voronov V.M. This marked the inception of a remarkable career that would redefine heavyweight MMA. In 1991, Fedor completed his schooling and entered professional college, earning a red diploma upon graduation in 1994. Following this, he devoted two years (1995-1997) to serving in the Russian Army, where his commitment to sports persisted. Fedor’s personal life took a significant turn in 1999 when he married Oksana, and the couple welcomed their daughter, Masha, into the world.His accomplishments in the late ‘90s showcase Emelianenko’s prowess. In 1997, he claimed the title of Master of Sports in self-defense in Saint Petersburg, followed by an international tournament victory in Kursk. The subsequent year, he became the Russia record holder and secured bronze medals in both judo and self-defense at national championships. The year 2000 marked a shift as he began studying punch techniques under Michkov A.V. Fedor displayed his adaptability by gaining the third place in the Russian championship in self-defense and making a successful foray into “Rings,” achieving notable results. In the same year, due to financial struggles, Fedor left the national Russian team and began to compete professionally as a Mixed Martial Artist. His trajectory reached new heights in 2002, winning the absolute weight class at the Russia championship in fighting self-defense and becoming a prominent figure in Pride, a prestigious MMA organization. Fedor’s victories in 2003 against formidable opponents like Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira solidified his championship status. Notable wins over Sam Shilt, Hiz Hiring, Kazyuki Fudgita, and Gary Goodridge further cemented his reputation as one of the greatest heavyweights in MMA history. 

Fighting Style: 

When other athletes start giving you the title of ‘Muhammad Ali or Pele’ of your chosen sport, your argument for deserving to be within the GOAT conversation must be listened to, and that so very attentively. Legend Bas Rutten stated ‘if you give him an arm, he arm-bars you. If you give him a leg, he leg locks you. If you give him a punch, he knocks you out.” Touting to how versatile Fedor was during his MMA career. Fedor Emelianenko’s fighting style is a formidable blend of aggression and well-rounded mastery. Stemming from his judo and sambo background, his stand-up game is characterized by aggressive boxing, deploying the “Russian hook” and a repertoire of powerful punches to the body and head. Smart footwork disrupts the rhythm of more technical strikers, allowing him to land impactful blows. Emelianenko seamlessly integrates his judo and sambo skills into his approach, showcasing high-level acumen in hip throws to bring opponents to the ground. Rather than opting for conventional leg takedowns, he prefers working from the clinch. Once the fight hits the mat, his ground-and-pound strategy is executed with vicious dynamism, nullifying opponents’ efforts from the bottom while delivering punishing strikes. Emelianenko’s unique approach involves attacking freely from perceived perilous positions, sometimes baiting submissions to create openings, reflecting his indomitable will and strategic brilliance. Executing this extremely well rounded fighting style is what drew eyes to Russian MMA in a heavily American dominated sport. Additionally, what made the Last Emperor so engaging and enthralling to watch was his stoic, calm demeanour. We as the fans, rarely saw him smile, laugh or have comedic moments during his career, (the only time I can recall is when he laughed with Matt Mitrione at their press conference). It was this demeanour which added to his aura of invincibility; there is not one single thing the man standing across from me in this square circle can do defeat me. Fedor worded it best himself. ‘The man standing across from me wants what I want, he wants to win. But by him winning, he will be taking away resources from me and my family, which reminds me of a time when me and my family had nothing. This man wants me to relive a state of poverty which was unbearable. I simply cannot allow this to happen.’ Dana White himself stated one bout that he will forever regret not promoting was Fedor vs Brock Lesnar, when Brock was the UFC heavyweight champion in 2008. Hence, Fedor is regarded as one of the greatest Mixed Martial Artists to ever compete outside of the UFC. 

Statistics from the Square Circle: 

Category	Quantity
Knockouts/Technical Knockouts wins.	16
Submission wins.	15
Takedown secured.	28
Significant strikes landed.	646
Significant strikes absorbed.	202
Heavyweight title defences.	5

Upon analysis of these statistics these are the conclusions which can be drawn from Fedor’s MMA career:

– Striking Prowess: Fedor’s 40% knockout rate showcases his striking effectiveness. His ability to land significant strikes with a 51% accuracy while defending against 63% of his opponents’ significant strikes highlights his well-rounded stand-up game.

– Submission Expertise: With 38% of his wins coming by submission, Fedor demonstrates a versatile ground game. His proficiency in various submission techniques indicates a high level of skill in grappling scenarios.

– Takedown and Defense: Fedor’s success rate of 63% in securing takedowns and an impressive 82% takedown defense underscore his wrestling acumen. This well-rounded skill set allows him control over the fight’s positioning.

– Championship Success: Five heavyweight title defenses, spanning both PRIDE and WAMMA championships, signify Fedor’s dominance in the heavyweight division during his prime. Defending the belt against notable opponents like Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and Mirko Filipovic enhances his legacy.

Counterarguments:

Even The Last Emperor has critics. Some of them state that the quality and calibre regarding the majority of Fedor’s opposition was mediocre at best, specifically during his tenure at Rings. At Pride Fedor did face more noteworthy opponents such as Croatian sensation Mirko Cro Cop, the legend Mark Coleman, the menacing Kevin Randleman (who became iconic for slamming Fedor on his headi their bout) and Minotauro. In Bellator Fedor did have bouts against popular opponents such as Rampage, Chael Sonnen and Frank Mir, but these opponents were way passed their prime. This leads directly onto the second criticism; Fedor fought many promotions apart from the UFC. The UFC is known to possess the highest bar of competition in Mixed Martial Arts. During the time when Fedor was at an all time high in Pride, the UFC had absolute monsters running rampant in their heavyweight division; Shane Carwin, Brock Lesnar, Frank Mir and Alistair Overeem to name a few. Some would state that Fedor did not want to compete with such tough competition…or could not compete with such tough competition. The final criticism would be that Fedor saw decline in the later part of his career, specifically during his time in Bellator. Age does not show mercy to anyone, especially in a sport designed for the youthful. This was evident in Fedor’s bouts. It was then cemented by Ryan Bader defeating Fedor twice in the organisation. 

Summary:  

Fedor Emelianenko, often hailed as the “Muhammad Ali or Pele of MMA,” emerges as a compelling figure in the debate over the MMA GOAT. His fighting style, described as a formidable blend of aggression and well-rounded mastery, encompasses elements from his judo and sambo background, making him a versatile and unpredictable force in the cage. The “Russian hook” and powerful punches highlight his stand-up game, while his judo and sambo skills manifest in expertly executed hip throws and a preference for clinch-based takedowns.

What sets Fedor apart is not just his technical prowess but his stoic demeanor, contributing to an aura of invincibility. His ability to maintain composure and project an indomitable will became integral to his allure. Fedor’s impact on MMA, particularly in a heavily American-dominated sport, is reflected in the reverence he commands even outside the UFC.

Examining his statistics reveals a fighter who excelled across various domains. With a 40% knockout rate and 38% of wins via submission, Fedor showcases a well-rounded skill set. His takedown accuracy of 63% and an 82% takedown defense highlight his wrestling acumen. Five heavyweight title defenses in PRIDE and WAMMA against notable opponents underscore his dominance in the division.

However, counterarguments emerge. Critics question the quality of his opposition, particularly during his Rings tenure. The absence of UFC competition, considered the pinnacle, is another point of contention. Additionally, Fedor’s later career decline, notably in Bellator, raises concerns about the lasting impact of age on his performance.

In conclusion, Fedor’s legacy is one of greatness, marked by a unique fighting style, dominance in PRIDE, and an impact that transcends the confines of the UFC. While counterarguments exist, Fedor’s contributions to MMA and his iconic status secure him a prominent place in the conversation of the sport’s greatest. The Last Emperor’s journey, characterized by resilience and adaptability, makes him a formidable contender for the title of MMA GOAT.

In the conversation for the MMA GOAT, Fedor’s achievements, dominance in his prime, and a diverse skill set contribute significantly. However, the manner of his losses, particularly by knockout, could be a point of contention in the comparison with other fighters. Nevertheless, his legacy as one of the greatest heavyweights in MMA history remains firmly established. 

Culmination:

In the eternal debate of who should be considered the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in MMA, it’s essential to recognise that its a profoundly subjective topic, and there might never be a decisive conclusion. This is due to MMA’s relatively young age as a sport, which continues to evolve and produce new generations of exceptional fighters.

Georges St-Pierre, Demetrious Johnson, and Fedor Emelianenko all present strong cases for their inclusion in the GOAT conversation.

Georges ‘Rush’ St-Pierre’s enduring influence is characterised by his dynamic fighting style and his ability to evolve over time. His remarkable character, both inside and outside the octagon, further solidifies his position. His dominance in the welterweight division, as evidenced by reclaiming the 170lb championship and successfully defending it nine times, speaks to his greatness. GSP’s capacity for redemption from losses and his embodiment of sportsmanship make him a compelling GOAT candidate. However, his journey is not without counterarguments, particularly regarding the quality of his opposition and the weight class.

Demetrious ‘Mighty Mouse’ Johnson’s versatility, athleticism, and astonishing statistical excellence are key elements of his case. Eleven consecutive flyweight title defences showcase his dominance. Yet, the counterarguments relate to his losses and his choice to remain in the flyweight division.

Fedor ‘The Last Emperor’ Emelianenko, often likened to Muhammad Ali or Pele in MMA, is defined by his aggressive and well-rounded fighting style. He is renowned for the “Russian hook” in his stand-up game and his adept use of judo and sambo. His stoic demeanour adds to his mystique, and he’s recognised for dominating outside the UFC. Despite his impressive statistics and numerous heavyweight title defences, there are doubts about the caliber of his competition and the absence of UFC challenges, particularly in his later career.

In conclusion, the MMA GOAT debate is a complex, multifaceted discussion. Each of these fighters, GSP, Mighty Mouse, and Fedor, has left an indelible mark on the sport and has compelling arguments for their inclusion. However, given the subjectivity, the discussion will likely endure as long as MMA itself. The emergence of new talents and the evolution of the sport ensure that the MMA GOAT debate will always be open to interpretation.

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